Maybe it was a good trade-off to him since the price to replace a GPU fan is very cheap compared to VRAM. You can replace the GPU fan yourself, the high availability of GPU fans in the after-market. While you can only RMA the card when VRAM breaks or 3rd party GPU repair shop if the warranty expired. So the VRAM is under high priority even at the expense of the GPU fan, I think.
I understand the reasons and could not disagree, but at least here in my experience and situation:
I have rigs in my room, so 100% fans is not an option, is extremely annoying and impossible to sleep or concentrate
I think the balance between fans 80% and temperature is good enough to not have to put 100%
Another thing you said:
Quote
...While you can only RMA the card when VRAM breaks...
Here in my country, a defective / broken fan is a valid reason to RMA and the store / techs will accept
But again, I understand the reason and if you'll want to have this card for a long period of time and have access to replacement fans, and have the rigs in another room, 100% fans can be good.