GPU noise (3070) details
GPU noise (3070) details
Hi, System: I have an I5-9400f with a cryogenic air cooler. The setup includes a Gigabyte 3070 Vision OC, a Gigabyte z390m motherboard, two teamgroup SSDs, and a 650W Corsair PSU. I recently received this GPU a few months ago and gave my 1660 to a friend. Recently, I’ve noticed a low buzzing sound from the 3070 while gaming. After adjusting the graphics settings, the noise decreases or disappears. It isn’t a fan hum. Is this normal? Could there be some issue with the GPU, or is it just a minor problem? Also, could the PSU be insufficient for this setup? Thank you, Boren IMG_2875.MOV
I won’t download or open the video on my PC for safety. I assume you’re referring to coil whine, which is common across all GPUs but can differ between models. If you share a link or upload it, I can review it to check for any issues.
It seems like coil whine is present, varying with speed and frame rate, and it's absent when the system is idle. There’s no way to fully remove it except possibly by steering clear of high frame rates where it’s most noticeable. It tends to be more pronounced at higher FPS ranges. Your graphics card is a 2080 Super, and it shows this issue when above 60 FPS.
Thank you for the quick responses and the helpful solution—it doesn’t bother me at all. I just wanted to confirm it’s not a warning before an explosion.
Well, generally you can switch the PSU and sometimes just replace the PCIe cables. Be mindful of compatibility, though—using the wrong ones might harm the GPU. There’s no official guide; it often comes down to luck or experience. Different cables affect resistance, which can change coil frequencies, making the sound inaudible or boosting FPS. I use the same GPU as OP and a Corsair PSU, but coil whine is still noticeable around 150fps. At 800fps it’s amazing! Usually I cap my frame rate at 60 or 120 to avoid jitter.
You could also apply special adhesive to the GPU coils to eliminate vibration entirely—no more whine, just like that. Of course, this needs skill and isn’t covered by any warranty, but it works.