A Controversial Design Choice for a $4,000 Graphics Card
ASUS has formally addressed growing concerns over its ultra-premium ROG Matrix RTX 5090 graphics card, but the explanation has left many scratching their heads. Following reports from an early buyer that the 12V-2×6 power connector was misaligned and prevented cable installation, ASUS has stated that the offset is not a manufacturing error but an intentional part of the product’s design.
In an official statement, the company said: “After review by our engineering team, the non-centered positioning of the power connector is part of the original product design, determined based on overall structural and electrical layout considerations.” This response places the company at odds with users who expect flawless functionality from a limited-run product with a reported $3,999 price tag.
The Practical Problem: A Card That Can’t Be Fully Powered
The core issue is functional, not just cosmetic. The 12V-2×6 connector requires a full, unobstructed insertion to ensure safe power delivery, especially for a GPU that can draw over 600 watts. If the surrounding cooler frame blocks the cable housing, it cannot seat properly, creating a potential safety hazard and performance limitation.
This flaw directly impacts a key selling point of the ROG Matrix card. ASUS markets its “dual power input” feature, which allows the card to draw up to 800W when used with a compatible ASUS BTF motherboard and a standard 12V-2×6 cable. A user who cannot connect the external power cable cannot access this advertised performance tier, and may not be able to use the card at all in a standard PC case.
Lack of Clarity and a Customer’s Response
ASUS’s statement has raised more questions than it has answered. The company has not provided guidance on which specific power cables have sufficient clearance or what users in standard (non-BTF) cases should do. For a product at this price and exclusivity, the lack of clear communication is striking.
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- $4,000 Limited Edition ROG Matrix RTX 5090 GPU Reportedly Arrives With Defective Power Port
The original complainant, Reddit user “Adrenaline424,” has decided not to wait for further clarification. Despite ASUS denying a defect exists, the user confirmed the card is still within the retailer’s 30-day return window and plans to send it back. The situation serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of early adoption for even the most prestigious hardware, where groundbreaking design can sometimes come at the cost of basic utility.
Source: Reddit