So, other than being a bit more expensive... is there any reason why someone shouldn't just buy the pcie x16 ribbon risers that don't require external power? I feel like it would be easier, cleaner, and less likely to malfunction/ burn up
Thanks
I haven't had a need to use risers in several years. You used to have to use them on old motherboards where there wasn't sufficient room to cool multiple GPUs running 24/7. I don't think that's much an issue anymore as GPUs have come a long way since then. I've personally had lots of issues with risers, so I would say to avoid them if you have the option.
The reason people use powered risers is to help take some of the electrical strain from the motherboard. With 3 GPUs you might consider running 2 of them on the board normally, and the third using a powered riser if you can't fit it on the board with the other 2 (likely).