MSI GTX 780 Gaming vs MSI GTX 780 Lightning vs MSI GTX 780 ti

MagusALL

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May 24, 2013
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Ok so currently I am using a MSI GTX 780 TwinFrozr otherwise knows as the "Gaming Edition." I'm using a 1200p monitor and the GPU does amazingly for this resolution. However in my neverending quest to create the best and perfectly balanced personal computer I will soon be upgrading that monitor to either a 1440p display or possibly a 4K but most likely a 1440p. Right now I have the opportunity to put in another $50 and "trade-up" to the MSI Lightning Edition GTX 780 which is known for its ability to overclock to ~1400mhz, getting better than GTX 780 ti performance, or so I am told. Otherwise I can throw down a couple hundred and bite the bullet to grab the GTX 780 ti and if anything ride that card out until the cows come home (or until I am thrust into 4K territory in which case I will probably get a second GTX 780 ti.) So I am just looking for opinions. If 1440p is my most likely next resolution is the GPU I have now good enough to get 60fps in most games? If not and it is between the Lightning 780 or the 780 ti which one would give me better performance for that screen? Also if I do go 4K can I do so with any single GPU setup or will I have to go SLI and if so is there any reason why two GTX 780's wouldn't be enough power? I want to make sure I am in the best position for the next couple years with the changes coming in resolution. Or should I just wait until the GTX800's come out and see what is going on with G-sync? Its a tough one and I thank you for the input.
 
Solution
I have had a 780 lightning for 2 months and got it replaced with a 780ti standard (that was my original order but they had no stock)
Both seemed to be almost identical out of the box in speed, but I actually managed to overclock the ti more without any hassles and the the ti (with titan blower) is much more quiet than the lightning. I have never tried to push the lighning over 109% power and change the bios to the LN bios, because it was already making too much noise for me under full load. Overall I had a free choice and I am happy with the ti.

I would not upgrade your card to a lightning, I got a qnix 27" 1440p monitor which I overclocked to 120hz and looks amazing, I would suggest the same for you.

Tavo_Nova

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Dec 31, 2011
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so you have a msi gtx 780 gaming ed. and for 50 bucks more you can get a 780 lightning one brand new? I say why not XD although it's up to you. if you were in my area a gtx 780 gaming ed is 120$ (us converted) cheaper than the lightning ^_^. but if you don't think it's viable to pay 50 bucks for a little upgrade (more if you're an insane clocker). then grab a 1440p and enjoy your life.
 

gaborbarla

Distinguished
I have had a 780 lightning for 2 months and got it replaced with a 780ti standard (that was my original order but they had no stock)
Both seemed to be almost identical out of the box in speed, but I actually managed to overclock the ti more without any hassles and the the ti (with titan blower) is much more quiet than the lightning. I have never tried to push the lighning over 109% power and change the bios to the LN bios, because it was already making too much noise for me under full load. Overall I had a free choice and I am happy with the ti.

I would not upgrade your card to a lightning, I got a qnix 27" 1440p monitor which I overclocked to 120hz and looks amazing, I would suggest the same for you.
 
Solution