Review: PowerColor Radeon R9 270X PCS+

Conclusion

Readers who are in tune with recent GPU developments will know that AMD's Radeon R9 270X can legitimately be thought of as an overclocked Radeon HD 7870.

Taking what's good about the GCN architecture and mixing in higher frequencies allows the R9 270X to deliver solid mid-range performance in today's latest games.

Mainstream 1080p gameplay is where the card excels, and if you're looking to dip into this particular portion of the market, you're only likely to achieve moderately quicker results if you turn to the GeForce GTX 760, priced from around £180.

Taking stock of the overall landscape, PowerColor has judiciously positioned the R9 270X PCS+ edition. At just under £165, this is one of the more capable mid-range performers available today. Overclocked on both core and memory, the PCS+ is ultimately faster, cooler and quieter than reference, but it may need something a little extra if it's to truly stand out. Perhaps that Turbo Timer should have been bundled as standard.

The Good

Faster, cooler and quieter than reference
Factory overclocked on core and memory
Backplate offers extra rigidity
Available for under £165

The Bad

No bundled games
Optional Turbo Timer is an eyesore

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PowerColor Radeon R9 270X PCS+

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The PowerColor Radeon R9 270X PCS+ graphics card is available to purchase from Ebuyer.

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