MSI copying ideas on how to hide power connectors

One cannot see melted power connectors if they are hidden.

MSI has apparently presented a new graphics card based on the RTX 5070 Ti Ventus 3X model. This graphics card stands out for one reason only: it uses a hidden power connector design.

The concept itself is not new. Gigabyte, Inno3D, and more recently Sapphire with its NITRO+ series have all experimented with it. The approach places the power connector under a small removable backplate, often attached with magnets, to keep the connection out of sight. MSI has not yet released a white edition of its RTX 5070 Ti Ventus 3X, so this version might be the only one planned.

The hidden connector design is more than just cosmetic. One of the main causes of burnt or melted 16-pin power connectors has been sharp cable bends close to the socket. NVIDIA’s guidelines specify at least 35 mm of clearance to avoid loose connections, which can lead to overheating. In practice, many cases do not provide that space. MSI’s new design moves the connector inside the heatsink, under the backplate, which ensures proper clearance and removes the risk of bending at the connector itself.

Source: harucan5492

The design was shown in a video uploaded by Japanese YouTuber @harucan5492 as recorded at Tokyo Game Show 2025. The clip reveals that the connector sits roughly three inches inside the heatsink, hidden beneath a detachable backplate section. Once the cable is plugged in, the cover can be reattached, resulting in a cleaner build and a safer connection.

Of course, such a design requires users to ensure that they have room to hide the connector on the motherboard side. Equally important is to ensure that the connector is correctly seated. We recently shared a video from Reddit showing that not all connectors are an easy fit and may require extra attention (featuring the NITRO+ example with a similar concept).

Source via Uniko’s Hardware :