Rumor: Nvidia to Cut GPU Production Amid RAM Crisis

by

Rumors suggest Nvidia might cut back on making its RTX graphics cards in early 2026, potentially by about a third compared to early 2025. This is reportedly due to a continuing shortage of DRAM, a key component in computers. Nvidia hasn’t confirmed these plans, but people planning to upgrade their graphics cards still have time to make a decision.

The current shortage of RAM (computer memory) began when OpenAI, the company behind popular AI tools, placed a massive order for memory chips (DRAM) to power its global data centers. Following this, DRAM manufacturers prioritized fulfilling OpenAI’s order, and Micron announced it was leaving the consumer memory market to concentrate on larger-scale production. This left Samsung and SK Hynix as the main suppliers of RAM for consumers. Samsung has reported having to double its prices for DRAM sold to brands like Corsair and G.Skill. As a result, the price of RAM has skyrocketed – a 2×16 GB kit of DDR5 RAM that cost around $90 in late summer now costs over $350.

Nvidia Could Slash RTX Graphics Card Production in 2026

While these reports are unconfirmed, sources suggest Nvidia might have to make decisions that could affect gamers. According to posts on a Chinese forum, Nvidia may reduce the number of gaming graphics cards they produce by 30-40% starting in early 2026, compared to their 2025 production levels. This potential cutback is reportedly due to a global shortage of RAM, which is driving up prices. The forum indicates Nvidia might scale back production of the RTX 5060 Ti and RTX 5070 Ti graphics cards, as these models use a type of memory that’s currently scarce and are less profitable than higher-end cards.

Currently, the RTX 5060 Ti 16GB and RTX 5070 Ti cost around $429 and $749 respectively, with the RTX 5080 starting at over $1,100. Nvidia might discontinue the 16GB and 8GB versions of these cards to focus on more profitable options, potentially leaving the standard RTX 5060 with 8GB of VRAM unaffected. However, Nvidia hasn’t announced its plans for 2026, so PC builders will need to wait for further updates.

Nvidia’s Potential Decision Could Affect PC and Console Gamers

If you’re planning to buy a new graphics card with lots of memory, you still have time to decide. The RTX 5070 Ti and similar models are still available at retailers like Amazon and Newegg, with options from brands like MSI and Gigabyte priced around $749. These cards offer great features like Nvidia Filters and DLSS 4, making them popular for gamers who want to play the newest games with high-quality settings. However, the most powerful cards, like the RTX 5090, are still hard to find at reasonable prices, costing at least $2,800 due to scalpers.

So, I’m hearing the Nintendo Switch 2 is running on Nvidia’s Tegra T239 chip, which is pretty cool considering how well the Switch 2 is selling – it’s one of the hottest consoles of 2025! But there’s some talk that the price might already go up because of issues with RAM. Now, Nvidia’s apparently cutting back on production, and I’m wondering if that’s going to hit Nintendo and us gamers in 2026, maybe even driving prices up even more. Hopefully not!

Sources: PC Gamer, OverClock3D

Read More

2025-12-19 00:04