The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 690 is a graphics card that needs no introduction. Released in 2012, it was the flagship model of the Kepler generation, boasting unparalleled performance and power efficiency. However, its exclusivity and limited production run have made it a rare commodity, sparking curiosity among gamers and tech enthusiasts alike. One of the most pressing questions on everyone’s mind is: how much does a GTX 690 cost?
Understanding The Rarity Of The GTX 690
To comprehend the pricing of the GTX 690, it’s essential to understand its rarity and exclusivity. NVIDIA produced only a limited quantity of these graphics cards, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The GTX 690 was aimed at the high-end market, catering to gamers and professionals who demanded the absolute best performance.
The card’s unique design, featuring two GK104 GPUs, 4 GB of GDDR5 memory, and a 256-bit memory bus, made it a behemoth of a graphics card. Its performance was unmatched at the time of its release, with capabilities that far surpassed its closest competitors. This exclusivity has contributed to the GTX 690’s mythical status, driving up demand and, subsequently, its price.
CurrentValue Of The GTX 690: A Snapshot
As of 2023, the GTX 690 is no longer in production, and its availability is limited to the secondary market. This scarcity has led to a significant increase in its value, making it a coveted collector’s item.
The average price of a used GTX 690 on online marketplaces can range from $1,500 to $3,000. However, it’s not uncommon to find listings that exceed these prices, often reaching as high as $5,000 or more for mint-condition cards with original packaging and accessories.
To put this into perspective, when the GTX 690 was first released, its MSRP was around $999. This substantial price increase is a testament to the card’s rarity, demand, and the nostalgia surrounding its era.
Factors Influencing The Price Of A GTX 690
Several factors contribute to the varying prices of a GTX 690:
Condition And Authenticity
The condition of the graphics card plays a significant role in determining its price. Cards in excellent condition, with minimal signs of wear and tear, can command a higher price. Authenticity is also crucial, as counterfeit products can flood the market, reducing the value of genuine GTX 690s.
Rarity And Limited Editions
Limited edition GTX 690 models, such as those with custom designs or special packaging, can fetch higher prices due to their exclusivity. These unique variants were often produced in small quantities, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Original Packaging And Accessories
Cards that include original packaging, manuals, and accessories, such as the power adapter and driver discs, can command a premium. This is especially true for collectors who value the completeness and authenticity of their purchases.
Warranty And Support
Cards that still have a valid warranty or support from the original manufacturer or resellers can provide an added layer of security, increasing their value.
Market Demand And Competition
The demand for GTX 690s can fluctuate based on market trends, new technology releases, and the availability of alternative graphics cards. High demand and limited supply can drive prices up, while decreased interest can lead to lower prices.
GTX 690 Alternatives: Are They Worth The Investment?
While the GTX 690 remains an incredible graphics card, its age and limited availability have led many to explore alternative options. Modern graphics cards, such as the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 or AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT, offer improved performance and features at a lower cost.
However, for those seeking a nostalgic gaming experience or a unique collector’s item, the GTX 690 remains a tempting option.
If you’re considering purchasing a GTX 690, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons:
- Pros: Unique collector’s item, nostalgic value, and exceptional performance for its time.
- Cons: Outdated technology, limited compatibility with modern systems, and potential reliability issues.
Conclusion
The GTX 690 is a legendary graphics card that has become a rare and coveted commodity. Its exclusivity, performance, and nostalgic value have driven up its price, making it a significant investment for enthusiasts and collectors.
If you’re willing to invest in a piece of gaming history, be prepared for a substantial outlay. However, for those seeking a more affordable and modern gaming experience, alternative options are available.
In the world of graphics cards, the GTX 690 remains an iconic symbol of innovation and excellence. Its price may be steep, but for those who desire a truly unique piece of gaming memorabilia, it’s a cost worth considering.
What Is The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 690?
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 690 is a high-end graphics card released in 2012, based on the Kepler architecture. It was designed to be a powerful and efficient graphics processing unit, featuring two GK104 GPUs and 3072 CUDA cores. The GTX 690 was marketed as a flagship product, promised to deliver exceptional performance and power efficiency.
The GTX 690 was particularly notable for its unique design, which featured two separate GPUs on a single card, connected by a PCIe bridge. This allowed for improved performance and reduced power consumption, making it an attractive option for gamers and enthusiasts. Despite being released over a decade ago, the GTX 690 remains a legendary graphics card, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
How Much Did The GTX 690 Cost When It Was Released?
When the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 690 was released in 2012, it had a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of around $999. This was a premium price point, reflecting the card’s high-performance capabilities and advanced features. At the time, the GTX 690 was one of the most expensive graphics cards on the market, making it accessible only to a select few who could afford the steep price tag.
It’s worth noting that the street price of the GTX 690 often varied depending on the region and retailer, with some models selling for slightly higher or lower prices. However, the $999 MSRP remained the benchmark for this flagship graphics card, solidifying its reputation as a luxury item for serious gamers and enthusiasts.
What Were The Key Features Of The GTX 690?
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 690 boasted several key features that contributed to its exceptional performance and power efficiency. These included its dual-GPU design, 3072 CUDA cores, 4GB of GDDR5 memory, and support for DirectX 11 and OpenGL 4.1. The card also featured a unique cooling system, which utilized a dual-slot design and vapor chamber heat sink to keep temperatures in check.
In addition to its technical specifications, the GTX 690 also came with several advanced features, such as NVIDIA’s GPU Boost technology, which dynamically adjusted clock speeds to optimize performance and power consumption. The card also supported NVIDIA’s SLI (Scalable Link Interface) technology, allowing users to combine multiple GTX 690 cards for even greater performance.
How Does The GTX 690 Compare To Modern Graphics Cards?
When compared to modern graphics cards, the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 690 seems somewhat dated, with its performance and features no longer competitive with current flagship models. For example, the latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 has over 10,000 CUDA cores, compared to the GTX 690’s 3072. Additionally, modern cards often feature more advanced cooling systems, higher memory bandwidth, and support for newer APIs like DirectX 12 and Vulkan.
That being said, the GTX 690 remains an important milestone in the history of graphics cards, showcasing NVIDIA’s innovative approach to GPU design and its commitment to delivering high-performance products. While it may not be a viable option for modern gaming, the GTX 690 remains a coveted collector’s item and a testament to the rapid pace of progress in the graphics industry.
Is The GTX 690 Still Worth Buying Today?
Unless you’re a collector or enthusiast seeking a rare and unique graphics card, it’s unlikely that the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 690 is a worthwhile purchase for most users. With its outdated architecture and limited performance compared to modern cards, the GTX 690 is no longer a viable option for gaming or other demanding applications.
Moreover, the GTX 690’s power consumption and heat output may be incompatible with modern systems, and its drivers may not be compatible with newer operating systems. Unless you’re specifically looking for a retro gaming or nostalgic experience, there are better, more efficient, and more affordable options available in the market.
Where Can I Find A GTX 690 For Sale?
Finding a new or used NVIDIA GeForce GTX 690 for sale can be a challenging task, as the card has been discontinued for many years. However, enthusiasts and collectors may still be able to find listings on online marketplaces like eBay, Amazon, or specialized forums and communities.
It’s essential to exercise caution when purchasing a used GTX 690, as the card’s condition, authenticity, and warranty may be uncertain. Be sure to research the seller, read reviews, and inspect the card’s condition closely before making a purchase. Additionally, be prepared for a potentially high price tag, as the GTX 690’s rarity and demand often drive up its value.
What Is The Resale Value Of A GTX 690?
The resale value of a used NVIDIA GeForce GTX 690 can vary greatly depending on the card’s condition, its rarity, and the demand for it. As a highly sought-after collector’s item, the GTX 690 can command a premium price, often exceeding its original MSRP.
In general, a used GTX 690 in good condition can sell for anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $1,500, depending on the region and the buyer. Collectors and enthusiasts may be willing to pay top dollar for a rare or mint condition GTX 690, especially if it’s still in its original packaging or comes with its original accessories. As a result, the GTX 690 has become a valuable item for those seeking to own a piece of graphics card history.