Users are reporting MSI's yellow-tipped GPU power cables are sneaking out of place, putting graphics cards at increased risk
PC Gamer
by Jacob Fox February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
MSI's yellow-tipped GPU power cables, designed to prevent melting by ensuring proper insertion, are now facing a new problem: they're slowly backing out on their own over time. This issue has been reported by users who properly seated the cables but noticed the yellow tips becoming visible days or weeks later, potentially leaving graphics cards at risk of damage. While the yellow-tipped design was intended to help users identify improper connections, the unexpected movement of cables could undermine this safety feature.
The problem gained attention on platforms like Reddit and Twitter, with users describing how their fully inserted cables gradually slipped out without any visible signs of user error or cable strain. This phenomenon raises concerns about cable stability and long-term GPU health, especially for high-performance gaming setups where power delivery is critical. Despite MSI's innovative approach to cable design, the issue highlights a possible flaw in the system that could lead to overheating and potential hardware failure.
For gamers and PC enthusiasts, this matters because GPUs are central to gaming performance, and any compromise in their stability can have significant consequences. The melting of GPU cables has been a recurring issue over the past few years, with the RTX 4090 being one of the first affected models. While solutions like proper cable insertion and third-party cooling aids have been suggested, the unexpected slippage of MSI's yellow-tipped cables adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging problem.
This issue underscores the importance of regular maintenance for gaming hardware, especially for those using high-end components. Users are advised to periodically check their GPU power connections to ensure they remain fully seated and free from any signs of wear or misalignment. Additionally, enthusiasts may explore alternative solutions like specialized cable sleeves or monitoring tools that can help prevent similar issues in the future.
Ultimately, while MSI's yellow-tipped cables were a step in the right direction, this new problem highlights the need for ongoing vigilance when it comes to GPU power management. For those invested in gaming and PC performance, staying informed about such hardware-related
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/23/2026