Key Points
- AI infrastructure growth is shifting memory production toward server‑grade components.
- Consumer DDR5 and LPDDR5X memory prices have risen sharply, with some kits costing two to three times more.
- VRAM shortages are leading manufacturers like NVIDIA and AMD to limit supplies and consider price hikes.
- Experts recommend purchasing GPUs with at least 12 GB of VRAM now to avoid future price increases.
- Recommended budget option: Intel Arc B580 (~$250 MSRP).
- Mid‑range picks: NVIDIA RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB (~$429 MSRP) and AMD Radeon RX 9070/9070 XT.
- Premium choice: NVIDIA RTX 5070 Ti (~$750 recommended price).
- No major new GPU launches are expected soon, tightening the window for affordable upgrades.
Intel’s Arc B580 is a great budget option, as long as you can put up with some driver issues.
If you decide to go with the RTX 5060 Ti, be sure to buy the 16GB model.
AI Demand Drives Memory Shortage
Memory manufacturer Micron announced the winding down of its consumer brand Crucial to concentrate on components for the artificial‑intelligence market. The shift reflects the massive infrastructure deals signed by AI firms, which have created unprecedented demand for server‑grade solid‑state storage and RAM. As manufacturers allocate more wafers to high‑margin commercial customers, the supply of consumer‑grade DDR5 kits and LPDDR5X memory has contracted, leading to price spikes that are two to three times higher than just a few months ago. The same pressure has lifted SSD prices by 20 to 60 percent.
Impact on Consumer GPU Prices
The shortage of VRAM, a critical component in graphics cards, is expected to translate into higher GPU prices for consumers. Rumors indicate that AMD may raise the MSRP of its 8 GB models by $20 and 16 GB models by $40, while NVIDIA is reportedly limiting VRAM shipments to board partners. With no new GPU launches slated for the near term, existing stock may become more expensive, creating a short window for budget‑friendly upgrades.
Recommended GPUs for Buyers
Given the tightening market, experts advise buying a graphics card with at least 12 GB of VRAM now. For tight budgets, the Intel Arc B580 is highlighted as a viable option, available from retailers such as Newegg and Amazon at or near its $250 MSRP, though buyers should be prepared for potential driver issues. The NVIDIA RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB model is recommended for those willing to spend a bit more, with prices hovering around its $429 MSRP on major sites. AMD’s Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT are presented as strong mid‑range choices, with the 9070 praised for lower power demands and the 9070 XT offering higher performance for users with adequate power supplies. For premium performance, the NVIDIA RTX 5070 Ti is cited as a 4K‑capable card priced near its $750 recommended price.
Conclusion
The convergence of AI‑driven memory demand and limited VRAM supplies is set to raise the cost of consumer GPUs. With no imminent new releases and existing inventory likely to become pricier, the optimal time to upgrade is now, focusing on models that provide at least 12 GB of VRAM to ensure longevity. Buyers should act promptly to secure the recommended cards before market pressures drive prices higher.
Source: engadget.com