ASUS PRIME is a new target for cheap GPU modding
ASUS PRIME GPUs are getting custom makeovers from Reddit users who combine 3D modeling tools with open source designs. PRIME cards are a common target because they are ASUS’s MSRP models, so they tend to be the cheapest options with simple coolers. That makes them attractive for owners who do not mind taking a screwdriver to their hardware.
The main mod revolves around “deshrouding” the card. Modders remove the stock triple-fan shroud, keep the original heatsink and backplate, then mount two 120 mm case fans using a 3D-printed bracket. One of the latest examples is the “ RX 9070 XT Arctic Edition ” shared on Reddit, where an ASUS PRIME RX 9070 XT runs with two Arctic P12 Pro fans. The creator printed the bracket in transparent PCTG and the shroud in PET-CF and plans to upload the model to Printables.
Another PRIME owner designed a deshroud kit for the ASUS PRIME RTX 5080, with support also advertised for RTX 5070 and RTX 5070 Ti:
RTX 5080 PRIME with Arctic Fan mod, Source: Maker World
Their OCCT and thermal camera tests show the card (RTX 5080) at around 68°C after 10 minutes at 400 W with the P12 Pro fans at 50% speed, and about 60°C at 100% fan speed. Under a more realistic 300 W load, the stock triple-fan cooler peaked at 70°C with fans at 60%, while the deshrouded setup reached around 64°C with the two case fans at 34%, and their daily 260 W undervolt profile sits near 59°C.
RTX 5080 PRIME with Arctic Fan mod, Source: Maker World
These projects do come with trade-offs. Removing the stock shroud can void the warranty, fan control is no longer vendor-supported, and the card’s dimensions change, usually making the card much thicker (well it’s not like you can do SLI setup anyway). Even so, the ongoing flow of shared brackets on sites like MakerWorld and Printables shows that PRIME owners are eager to experiment with quieter and more customizable cooling on budget-friendly GPUs. It is indeed great news that despite much increased pricing on GPUs in recent years, GPU modding is still a thing.
Source: Reddit/Radeon , ASUS RTX5080 PRIME 3D deshroud model
