Power, Temperature and Noise
We're surprised by just how frugal the reference GTX 980 is, evaluated as wattage for a complete system. Partner cards increase frequencies and voltage along the way. The Classified's use of 1.212V and a core routinely running at over 1,400MHz pushes consumption up by approximately 40 per cent.
That huge ACX 2.0 cooler makes short work of what remain mid-range power consumption figures. It's good to see EVGA focusing on a reasonable, rather than exceptional, under-load temperature.
Sensible temperatures usually correlate well with sensible noise output. The two fans spin at a maximum 1,500rpm after prolonged use, which is good enough for a sub-40dB noise rating. The Classified is cool, composed and quiet at all times.
