AMD RX 9060 XT 2-Fan vs. 3-Fan Comparison Performance, Noise, and Temps Tested

When it comes to two-fan vs. three-fan graphics cards, there are often questions regarding the difference in noise, thermals, and performance. The comparisons are based on each design's performance under load and whether it is worth spending extra for an additional fan.

If you're opting for an RX GPU, the only differences between the two- and three-fan models are noise, temperature, and performance. The two cards tested are 16GB of the 9060 XT. Sapphire Pulse OC is the 2-fan version, and the ASUS Prime OC is the 3-fan version. The ambient temperature of the room is 21.5℃, or approximately 71°F.

Two-Fan Sapphire Pulse Performance

We start with the lowest-priced card, the Sapphire Pulse 2-fan. The GPU draws 170W at full load in games. GPU core temp is 60°C, hotspot is 78°C, and memory temp is 70°C. The fans are about 1200RPM.

We then check the noise level. Sapphire Pulse is quiet for a 2-fan card. The volume leaves room to play with the PC speakers and, without headphones, even when it is on the desk close to the player.

To test performance, we switch to a more realistic scenario with 1440p ultra graphics settings, with FSR set to quality mode. The GPU runs at 89 fps, sometimes as low as 88, for a range of 88-89.

ASUS Prime Performance with Three Fans

Next, we're testing a slightly more expensive ASUS Prime which uses three fans. The two-fan version uses approximately 5W less power than this GPU. The GPU temperature is 49 degrees, the hotspot is 69 degrees, and the memory temperature is 78 degrees. The fans operate at around 1500RPM.

The noise levels are tested, and both are basically the same, resulting in a draw. Performance-wise, the ASUS Prime maintains a steady 89 fps. The difference between the two-fan model (88-89 fps) and the three-fan model (87) is roughly 1%, which is within the margin of error.

Both models feature solid construction. ASUS Prime features a cooling solution that delivers optimal heat dissipation. Even though the Sapphire Pulse is a 2-fan card, it comes with a 3 heat-pipe-cooled heatsink that spreads heat across the GPU and memory modules, a thick heatsink, and an overall cooler design.

Both GPUs feature metal backplates and have the same build standards.

There's little difference between the two cards in terms of noise, temperature, and performance. The units tested both work well, but performance may vary depending on the brand you use. In some cases, designs using two or three fans may not deliver the same performance. The most viable option is the model with the lowest cost, based on a reliable design.