GPU Versions? What is 'Gigabyte, Asus, Sapphire etc?

[SeizedBog]

Okay. This is a really n00by question. Please dont laugh.

But how come whenever I search a GPU, it always comes with a company's name on it in front, like Gigabyte, Asus, Sapphire etc. How do I choose?
Is it normal to have another company's name in front of the GPU? Is there no default GPU?

 

[shrkbay]

there are GPUs produced straight from nVidia/AMD, but usually they come with sh*tty cooler and no OC, companies usually make different versions of cards for example:
1. SOC
2. OC
3. stock
with different prices and coolers, usually GIGABYTE, ASUS and MSI make best cards, but other companies like Sapphire, HIS, PNY, EVGA also make good ones

 

[metal orient]

AMD and Nvidia are the designers of the card and companies like ASUS and Sapphire will manufacture them. They can be made to reference designs, i.e. the ones set by AMD and Nvidia or they can have different coolers, among other things.

I'm sure other more knowledgeable people will be able to fill you in better.

 

[SeizedBog]

Thanks guys!
With all these different versions, how do I know which one to choose?

 

[metal orient]

Thats the trick, each card has advantages and disadvantages such as:

Price
Performance
Noise
Heat
Length
etc

You need to check reviews and ask people.

 

[shrkbay]

i, personally, prefer MSI, ASUS, GIGABYTE, they usually have nice design, low prices, good coolers and high performance