Word has it that Nvidia’s upcoming RTX 5080 might pack not one but two VRAM options—16 GB and a more beefier 24 GB. Sounds awesome, right? But that 24 GB version might not hit shelves at launch. Apparently, Nvidia’s running into a few tech hurdles, so we might be waiting a bit for that extra VRAM.
If you’ve probably been refreshing your feed every five minutes for some juicy RTX 50 series news you might be hearing whispers about the RTX 50 series for what feels like forever now—kind of like waiting for Cyberpunk 2077 to finally get that huge patch.
But we’re getting close! Nvidia’s reportedly discontinuing one of its fan-favorite cards, the RTX 3060, which seems like a not-so-subtle move to clear the way for these shiny new GPUs.
But things get more interesting.
PolyMorph, a leaker just dropped this romour on the ChipHell forums.
According to them, the RTX 5080 won’t just come with the 16 GB VRAM that’s been rumored. Oh no, there’s also a souped-up 24 GB version in the works.
But the big question is: when’s that 24 GB beast actually going to show up? Other insiders are backing up this claim, so it’s not just one wild theory.
But honestly, your guess is as good as mine on when Nvidia will let it loose.
Could the RTX 5080 Actually Pull Off 24 GB of VRAM?
RTX 4090 is already available with 24 GB. So, it’s not crazy to expect the RTX 5080 to match that or even go beyond. But there’s little bit bit of problem here.
See, the RTX 5080 is supposed to run on the GB203 GPU, which uses a 256-bit memory interface. And yeah, I know that sounds like some arcane tech talk, but stick with me—it basically means the card can handle 16 GB of VRAM right out of the gate.
To get that sweet 24 GB Nvidia’s going to need to swap in 3 GB memory modules, and those are still in development.
Now, there’s another route Nvidia could take.
They could use the GB202 GPU, which powers the monster RTX 5090 with its super-wide 512-bit interface.
But instead of going full throttle, Nvidia could dial it back to a 384-bit interface, which would unlock that coveted 24 GB VRAM.
It’s kind of like building a six-lane highway instead of sticking with four—it’s all about making room for more traffic (or in this case, data).
So, what’s Nvidia’s next move, you ask?
Honestly? It’s anyone’s guess. On one hand, betting on those 3 GB memory modules seems like the most straightforward play, but mass production for those could be a ways off.
On the other hand, the GB202 option might skip that production wait, but it could also mean higher prices—ouch.
But hey, who doesn’t want more VRAM if it means smoother gameplay, right? Whether Nvidia goes with the 3 GB modules or supercharges the 5090 GPU, there’s a lot at stake.
