The VRAM Dilemma: Are Modern GPUs Falling Behind?
In recent years, VRAM (graphics card memory) has become a critical point of discussion in the tech community, with many arguing that we aren’t getting enough of it.
It’s almost unbelievable that eight years ago, Nvidia introduced the GeForce GTX 1070 as its first mainstream GPU to boast 8GB of VRAM for a price of $450—equivalent to nearly $600 today when adjusted for inflation.
Fast forward to today, and those same $600 would now buy you a GeForce RTX 4070 Super, a GPU equipped with just 12GB of VRAM. While this is an increase over 8GB, it’s hardly substantial given the time that has passed between GPU generations.
How much VRAM do I need for 1080p gaming
How much VRAM do I need for 4K
How much VRAM do I need for gaming
How much vram pc gaming reddit
How much VRAM for 1440p 144Hz
How much VRAM for 1440p 2024
How much VRAM do I have
The issue becomes more pronounced with mid-range cards like the RTX 4060 Ti, which initially launched at $400 for the 8GB variant. Nvidia later introduced a 16GB version priced at $500, but poor sales eventually led to a price reduction to $450. Even with the discount, many feel the card still fails to deliver good value for the money.
The introduction of the 8GB and 16GB RTX 4060 Ti models has made one thing clear: 8GB of VRAM is insufficient for high-end gaming. This was particularly evident when comparing the two models during reviews. In several cases, the 16GB version outperformed the 8GB model, delivering either higher frame rates or a smoother overall experience.
Cyberpunk 2077
Forza Motorsport
The Last of Us Part 1
Avatar Frontiers of Pandora
Homeworld 3
Hogwarts Legacy
Starfield
Horizon: Forbidden West
Ghost of Tsushima
What Happens When You Run Out of VRAM?
Testing the limits of VRAM can be challenging, as different games react differently when the VRAM buffer is exceeded. However, performance issues are most noticeable in demanding titles. For instance, in Horizon Forbidden West, when comparing the 8GB and 16GB RTX 4060 Ti models at 1440p with the “very high” preset, the differences were striking.
During certain in-game cutscenes, the 16GB model was up to 35% faster and experienced fewer frame time spikes, leading to a smoother gameplay experience. On average, the 16GB model was 40% faster, with significantly better frame time performance, resulting in a much more consistent and enjoyable gaming experience.
