Gigabyte seemingly mocks Asus’ recent Q-release debacle with a video swapping out an RTX 5070 Ti 100 times

2025-03-11 12:41:00
www.pcgamer.com

Asus found itself in a bit of hot water at the very start of the year, as some users accused its Q-Release PCIe slot of grinding GPU contact pins. Since then, Asus offered to cover any damage, but Gigabyte has seemingly taken the opportunity to brag about the fact that its release system doesn’t do the same.

As spotted by VideoCardz, Aorus, Gigabyte’s gaming brand, put out a post on X showing what happens when you install and remove a GPU 100 times. Without the context of this Asus debacle, one might assume this is simply a video to show off its PCIe release system, but in the wake of Asus’ problems, this feels like a very tactical gloat.

The motherboard performing this test is the Gigabyte Z890 Aorus Elite WiFi7 Ice. Designed for Intel Arrow Lake rigs, this is a new motherboard at a good price point that is bested by its AMD counterparts.

Picking up a bit of free press on a recent scandal, Gigabyte’s post links out to ways to buy both the motherboard and RTX 5070 Ti graphics card in its accompanying video.

Asus’ PCIe Q-Release Slim quick-release latch requires users to lift up their graphics card from the left of the card first, causing the body of the card to push down a retainer clip that lets the whole thing come loose from a PCIe slot. The wear on GPU contact pins seems to come from the friction from tugging that card up and down.

Game on with confidence! With our renowned DIY-friendly and Ultra Durable design, you’ll enjoy a smooth, hassle-free build with rock-solid reliability. No more worries about gold finger paint peeling or scratches from metal edges—our design provides complete protection for… pic.twitter.com/kI9WMfOjZ5March 11, 2025

Gigabyte’s video shows a latch with a button that unlatches the PCIe slot, save using a finger or screwdriver. Asus also uses this approach for some of its motherboards, though notably ‘upgraded’ to the Q-Release Slim for some models.

In response to the initial reports, Asus said:

“In our internal testing and evaluation of the extremely small number of cases reported, we found no damage to the motherboard or graphics card that would affect functionality and or performance”.

Then, later, “It is important to emphasize that any type of PCIe add in card will exhibit signs of usage and wear marking after 60 continuous insertions and removals. Additionally, if the installation and removal are not performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, the likelihood of scratches and or wear may increase.”

Notably, most consumers won’t trade out the graphics card in their rig more than 50 or 60 times before changing the motherboard (or the rest of the rig), but Gigabyte’s motherboard is reportedly fine after 100 swaps.

Asus claims that reported wear does not have a negative impact on performance. However, buying a $2,000 card like an RTX 5090 and then promptly scratching it may impact not only the feeling of getting a brand new rig but also its resell value. With the current launch period and demand, though, you will likely be able to sell your RTX 50 series card for face value even if you write your name on it.

This small clip from Gigabyte does a pretty good job of marketing the long-term reliability of its new motherboard, even if it’s at the expense of Asus’ ego.

Source Link

Take your gaming to the next level! The Redragon S101 RGB Backlit Gaming Keyboard is an Amazon’s Choice product that delivers incredible value. This all-in-one PC Gamer Value Kit includes a Programmable Backlit Gaming Mouse, perfect for competitive gaming or casual use.

With 46,015 ratings, an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars, and over 4K+ bought in the past month, this kit is trusted by gamers everywhere! Available now for just $39.99 on Amazon. Plus, act fast and snag an exclusive 15% off coupon – but hurry, this offer won’t last long!

Score this incredible deal now!

Start your free Amazon Prime trial
today and unlock unlimited streaming and more!

Help Power Techcratic’s Future – Scan To Support

If Techcratic’s content and insights have helped you, consider giving back by supporting the platform with crypto. Every contribution makes a difference, whether it’s for high-quality content, server maintenance, or future updates. Techcratic is constantly evolving, and your support helps drive that progress.

As a solo operator who wears all the hats, creating content, managing the tech, and running the site, your support allows me to stay focused on delivering valuable resources. Your support keeps everything running smoothly and enables me to continue creating the content you love. I’m deeply grateful for your support, it truly means the world to me! Thank you!

BITCOIN

Bitcoin Logo