ASUS ROG ARES IV DUAL GPU graphics card
AMD add-in-board (AIB) partner Asus maybe producing a limited edition graphics card based on AMD’s new Vega architecture.
Unfortunately, this is just a rumour at the moment. The cost of a card with dual graphics could cost over $1000. With no official statement given or denial of such a product, it could go either way. Asus has yet to confirm such an ambitious project. Asus has previously created dual GPU graphics cards for both NVidia and AMD.
Two previous implementations include the ROG ARES II: dual HD 7970 and ASUS ROG Ares III: Limited Edition. These previous cards during their limited runs were impressive at the time and gave enthusiasts a teasing alternative. These cards didn’t come without their barriers for even those with a bottomless wallet. The ROG ARES II dual HD 7970 came with a 600W power requirement as well as a hybrid air/liquid cooling system.
Cost won’t be the only restraint, the real challenge will most likely be choosing to go all out when NVidia could decide to launch their 20 series of cards to replace their 10 series cards. As of now, NVidia is the GPU king when it comes to performance. Competition for the first time in 5 years could finally force NVidia to release updates to their high performance cards. With The NVidia GTX 1080 Ti currently holding the attainable poll position as the pinnacle of all graphics cards, its position may finally be challenged. NVidia also have the Titan X card which could be considered although it is seen as slightly elite costing above $1000 and not being marketed as an entirely gaming focused card although that is starting to change.
The change in marketing for the Titan Xp card by NVidia from a deep learning card to gaming eccentric one is good news for consumers. The former research focused card is being rebranded as a high performance gaming card and that can only mean that AMD is pushing up the steaks. NVidia has been alone for over 5 years in the high end GPU market and has enjoyed the resources gained; this may mean that they can retaliate with a new series of cards based on their Volta technology. Volta is the next evolution of what NVidia envisions graphics cards to be able to offer. AMD appears to be forcing NVidia’s hand and that’s great for all parties including AIB partners.