R9 280x or Asus 7970 DirectCUII (for much cheaper)

Beyar

Honorable
Sep 18, 2013
3
0
10,510
So I was planning my first ever build and originally was thinking to go with one of the new 280x cards (either Asus or Gigabyte off NCIX at $329.99-339.99). However, NCIX recently offered the Asus 7970 DirectCUII for a special deal at $269.99 after rebates. I know that the 280x is technically better at factory clocks, but would the 7970 provide more value for that price (plust I get 3 free games)? Also, would I be able to overclock the 7970 to 280x levels without too much heat? Is the 280x worth the extra $60-70?

I am really new to all this so any advice would be appreciated.

I would like to max out BF4, but would also like some future proof for future BF games/ RPGs such as Mass Effect, Dragon Age, Witcher, etc. I'm a little worried going with the older card as it is from early 2012.
 

Anub1s

Honorable
May 27, 2012
489
1
10,960
The 280x is basically the 7970 Ghz Edition at a better price point (normally). You can overclock the 7970, rather easily, and that is a nice cooler, so that seems like a solid option in this case, considering the price is so much lower.