SUMMARY: We've reviewed many ASUS graphics cards in previous years but we always wondered why they cost more than other brands. Sure, they always included a healthy package but does that alone really justify spending extra? Today we take a close look at two of ASUS's new GeForce 7800 GTX “T.O.P” cards in SLI which come factory overclocked with fancy and effective coolers. Read on find out why we think ASUS finally hit the nail on the head for a true premium (kick ass) high-end graphics card!
In true ASUS style we have an absolutely massive box which shows some of the main features the card offers, the score difference over a standard 7800GTX along with the awards they have received.
The front of the box can be opened up and gives us some detail on what some of the software inside offers - better gaming experience, better movie experience and more. Some of the features are extremely cool but how much or how often you would use it might make it a bit pointless.
Turning the box over we have a huge amount of information due to the fact that you have to fill a box up this big with something. We have our normal extended specifications, a list of more awards, a quick look at the software inside the difference of this card and more against Intel integrated graphics (like that can even be considered competition, but anyway…) along with a few other little bits of information.
Inside we have a fancy black CD wallet so you can pile the huge amount of CDs into one location so you don’t lose them. The picture almost makes it look like a normal wallet and when looking at it you come to think that it would look quite nice in your pocket - maybe something for the future.
Software wise we have a huge pile including Driver CD, VirtualDrive 9, Medi@Show, Project Snowblind, PowerDirector, ASUSDVD, Xpand Rally and a game pack. There is enough to keep you entertained and there is no reason you won’t be able to make full use of the 7800 GTX.
Manual wise we have a quick setup guide and a more extensive manual in regards to the drivers and utilities on offer from ASUS. Pretty much we have nothing out of the ordinary and you will probably find yourself leaving them in the box, as usual.
Cable wise we don’t have a whole lot with a DVI to VGA connector, PCI E power cable converter and the little box that lets us utilize HDTV Out and VIVO. The extra money you spend goes into the software bundle and the card itself which we will look at right now.
