GPU Memory Costs Are Climbing
While RAM and SSD prices have felt the brunt of the memory supply crunch, modern graphics cards pack far more dedicated memory than many realize. The shortage has pushed up the cost of GDDR6 modules that come pre‑installed on AMD cards, with sources saying the price hike took effect on October 1.
Add‑in board partners will likely pass those higher costs to consumers, meaning Red Team gamers should expect pricier RTX‑style cards in the near future. This isn’t an isolated case; in July Nvidia also raised prices on its GDDR6 and GDDR7‑based cards, with rumors of up to a 30 % increase.
Analysts have warned that cards with more than 8 GB of VRAM could strain budgets, a point echoed by our own Dave, who advised shoppers to steer clear of high‑VRAM Nvidia models if price is a concern.
The scarcity of high‑end RTX 5090 units adds another layer of difficulty. Retailers report that finding a 5090 has become increasingly tough, and rumors suggest Nvidia may have halted production of the 5090 in favor of AI‑focused data‑center GPUs.
Beyond memory, other components such as PCBs are also climbing in price due to geopolitical tensions, including the recent war in Iran. The combined pressure on memory, PCBs, and overall supply makes this a challenging period for anyone looking for an affordable PC upgrade.
Overall, the trend points to higher prices across the board, and gamers should stay vigilant and consider their options carefully as the market adjusts.