The high end (stock) coolers (290x & 690/Titan/780)

[wand3r3r]

I was just browsing the R9 290x pictures and I think the cooler actually looks pretty decent. We have nothing to go on specs wise afaik so for now only the aesthetics can be compared. I generally go aftermarket anyway, but it's interesting to see the differences/improvements this generation.

(I don't know if they have improved the 290x cooler, but they have tried to make some design changes)

(from http://videocardz.com/46741/radeon-r9-290x-pictured-close)

 

[wand3r3r]

The 690 cooler, as good as it gets as far as stock coolers go. Clearly they have used "better" materials than the usual plastic shroud.

I like the lighting.

Of course my personal favorite (the whole card not just the cooler).

The 7970 for reference.

The 580 for reference.