EVGA GeForce GTX 690 4GB Graphics Card Unboxing & First Look Linus Tech Tips

Linus Tech Tips opens with an enthusiastic unboxing of the EVGA GeForce GTX 690 4GB graphics card, highlighting its dual-GPU design that effectively pairs two GTX 680s in one card. The host explains that although the core units are similar to a pair of 680s, the 690 is clocked slightly differently and operates within a defined power envelope that allows it to boost without overheating. He emphasizes the novelty and value of a single card offering two GPUs, plus potential for Quad SLI and reduced space usage compared to running two separate GPUs. Throughout the segment, he situates the GTX 690 in the historical context of high-end Nvidia engineering, noting the card’s premium status as a $1000 product and its target as enthusiasts seeking extreme performance. The unboxing packaging is intentionally modest, with a focus on the card itself and what comes in the box: EVGA accessories, a driver disc, a warning label about heat, and a few quick-start items. He also points out the practical implications of the memory configuration, mentioning the 4GB total RAM that is effectively 2GB per GPU and how that interacts with triple 1080p gaming scenarios. In closing, the host frames the 690 as an overbuilt, visually impressive piece with strong potential for overclocking and impressive performance, while reminding viewers that technology advances rapidly and today’s fastest card may be challenged by future releases. In the design-focused portion, the video dives into the GTX 690’s construction, describing the largely metal build, dual vapor chambers, and updated back plate that reduces turbulence. The cooling solution is highlighted as a key feature, with aluminum fins visible through Plexi windows and a blue GTX logo that signals its high-end status. The host notes the inclusion of two eight-pin PCIe power connectors and three DVI ports (plus a mini DisplayPort) to support Nvidia Surround and 3D Vision setups, while recommending three DVI outputs for straightforward multi-monitor configurations. He compares the GTX 690’s length to the 590 and 680, pointing out its longer form factor but cohesive design that remains visually striking with metal accents and an aircraft-inspired chassis. He also discusses memory modules, stating they are higher-density GDDR5 Samsung parts, which eliminates the need for certain back plates to cool them, and explains why the card feels like a premium, overbuilt design that looks as impressive as it performs. The final portion translates the hardware into expected performance and use-cases. The host indicates that single-GPU performance will approach about 95 to 98 percent of a dual-GPU setup, while dual GPUs on a single card offer similar efficiency to two separate GPUs with the advantage of lower power draw and a cleaner footprint. He discusses the practical implications for power envelopes, overclocking potential, and the risk history with earlier GTX 590 overvolting, noting Nvidia’s intent to avoid similar issues with the 690. The video wraps with a practical performance snapshot, acknowledging that while the 690 is the fastest card of its era, memory limitations (4GB total, 2GB per GPU) may constrain the latest games at extreme resolutions, suggesting alternatives like dual 680s for those seeking more VRAM headroom. The host signs off by praising the card’s aesthetics and engineering while acknowledging that today’s hardware landscape continues to evolve rapidly.

Topics · hardware · unboxing · graphics_cards · technology · pc_building · gaming_performance