EVGA GTX-280 SLI

INTRODUCTION

We've spent several weeks with the EVGA GTX-280's we received some time ago. They've been productive weeks, full of testing, playing, and living with the EVGA GTX-280 in single card and SLI configuration and while we still have a lot of testing to do, we decided to go ahead with a Single card and SLI review. We're saving the Triple SLI review for a week or two and then we'll break it out with some of the hottest titles of the season in what's sure to be an SLI vs. Crossfire extravaganza of epic proportions.

We've got to tell you that there's a certain feeling that you get when you hold these monsters in your hand that's almost indescribable. Knowing that you are holding the fastest, most powerful single GPU video card in the world in your hand; with it straining to get into a machine and drive graphics like you've never seen before.

With the introduction of the new Nvidia 180.xx drivers offering better SLI support, we felt it important to review the beast in not only our normal fashion, but in SLI as well. In honor of its debut we spent days testing it and getting a feel for the "King of Single GPU Cards". We have to tell you, the King still rules.

About EVGA

Warranty & Support:

In the US, EVGA offers a 10 year warranty (equivalent to lifetime). You can find full details of the warranty program on the EVGA home page, although it's important to remember that the 10 year warranty only applies if you register the card within thirty days of purchase. But this is pretty much standard practice amongst the board partners that offer extra extended warranties. In addition, EVGA also has a lively message board where you can ask EVGA representatives about anything you'd like to know before or after purchasing an EVGA product.

One thing that sets EVGA above other NVIDIA partners is its support program. When you purchase an EVGA video card, the company gives you the chance to step up to something better (should Nvidia release a new line of graphics cards) in the first 90 days after the initial purchase. In order to qualify for this, you must purchase your EVGA video card from an authorized reseller – purchasing a card from eBay or another auction site does not qualify you for the Step-Up program.

Providing you meet EVGA's very reasonable terms and conditions, you will get the full amount you paid knocked off the cost of the card you're upgrading to. Obviously, you can't keep stepping up to something faster – EVGA allows you to complete one Step-Up on each video card purchase; the Step-Up doesn't count as a purchase.