Asus has showcased the latest addition to its gaming graphics card lineup, the R9 280 DirectCU II. This GPU is designed to produce 20% less heat and run three times quieter than previous iterations, thanks to the DirectCU II thermal integration.

Featuring DIGI+ VRM enhancements, this unit utilises digital voltage regulators to deliver 15% better power efficiency, which can improve stability and longevity by at least two times over single fan competitors according to the manufacturer. Asus believes its twin fan setup makes the R9 280 six times more powerful than any single fan GPU.

The R9 280 DirectCU II boasts 3 GB of GDDR5 video memory, supports resolutions up to 2560 x 1600 and a 1070 MHz engine clock, all of which should add up to a solid gaming experience for demanding users.

Asus has also fitted this GPU with a Tweak function, allowing users to fine tune video memory clock speeds, cooling fan speeds, power consumption thresholds as well as stream on-screen content online in full HD quality. Asus has included one DisplayPort, one HDMI and two native DVI ports, to ensure users are not left in the lurch as far as connections go.

The R9 280 DirectCU II will be available from 10 March 2014 and should retail for an estimated R5 400, making it an enticing prospect for PC gaming fanatics.