Due to a shortage of GDDR6X memory, Nvidia may need to use GDDR6 memory for high-end GPUs like the RTX 4070. Nvidia’s high-end GPUs excel at higher resolutions even with a narrower memory bus compared to AMD GPUs, thanks to their faster GDDR6X memory and larger cache.
It is now being reported that NVIDIA might soon face a shortage of GDDR6X memory modules. According to sources from Board channels (via benchlife), the availability of GDDR6X memory could become limited by August. NVIDIA sources this memory from Micron, but a recent batch failed quality checks, potentially disrupting the supply. As a result, NVIDIA might have to use slower GDDR6 memory for some mid-range RTX 40 series GPUs, like the GeForce RTX 4070. This change would require modifications to the GPU die and various hardware and software adjustments. If implemented, it could lead to reduced performance at higher resolutions, especially for the RTX 4070, which has a 192-bit memory bus.
The shortage will impact the production of not just the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 but also the higher-end cards that use GDDR6X memory modules. These include several models above the 4070, such as its SUPER and Ti versions, the RTX 4080/Super, and the RTX 4090, all of which rely on GDDR6X for high memory bandwidth. GDDR6X, the fastest VRAM type currently available for RTX 40 GPUs, operates at 21Gbps effective memory speed and up to 23Gbps on the RTX 4080 SUPER. In contrast, GDDR6 typically tops out at 18Gbps on modern GPUs, resulting in a noticeable decrease in overall memory bandwidth.
Nevertheless, this remains a rumor, and fortunately, the disruption is expected to be temporary. The supply is likely to resume normally after a brief pause, meaning Nvidia might not need to switch to GDDR6 memory. NVIDIA plans to adopt a supply and demand strategy to manage the situation, with the Chinese market expected to be the most affected by the shortage. Additionally, the RTX 40 inventory is facing shortages for another reason: NVIDIA’s focus on the high demand for AI technology. This, along with the company limiting RTX 40 inventories in anticipation of the next-gen gaming GPU launch expected in early 2025, could create a shortage of RTX 40 gaming GPUs in the coming months.
Reports indicate that the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 and 4060 will be most impacted. Regardless of whether the GDDR6X memory shortage causes issues, NVIDIA’s shift in focus toward meeting AI demand will lead to a shortage, driving up the prices of current-generation cards.
Source: Benchlife
