NVIDIA launches new RTX 4070 with GDDR6 memory, promising similar performance to GDDR6X model

It is now official that Nvidia has introduced a GDDR6-powered variant of the RTX 4070 model, which has been long-awaited. In a press release during Gamescom 2024, Nvidia confirmed the release of this new graphics card version, assuring gamers of "similar performance in games and applications" to the original GPU with GDDR6X.

Nvidia asserts that the modification in specifications is intended to improve the availability of their RTX 4070 graphics card. This decision is attributed to a shortage of GDDR6X memory, leading Nvidia to utilize slightly slower GDDR6 (20 Gbps GDDR6 vs 21 Gbps GDDR6X) in the new RTX 4070 GPU models. The adjustment allows Nvidia to allocate their limited GDDR6X memory resources to their higher-end GPU models, where the bandwidth of GDDR6X is most crucial, and any downgrade to GDDR6 would be more noticeable. 

For more details on the GeForce RTX 4070, you can visit the GeForce RTX 4070 family product page here.

Nvidia states that both versions of the GPU have identical specifications, except for the memory, and that the new card will deliver comparable performance in games and applications. The updated GPU is set to be released by Nvidia's partners in September, and it remains to be seen if consumers will have a way to distinguish between the two versions before making a purchase. However, this distinction may not be significant for most consumers, since the performance is expected to be similar to the previous version. Hopefully, informed gamers will receive prior notice before making a purchase.

This is likely to be the final release for the RTX 40 series for now. Nvidia's decision to introduce this move after the launch of the RTX Super cards earlier in the year may seem surprising. However, it appears that there is still considerable demand for these GPUs, prompting this unexpected decision by Nvidia. With the reported high demand, the RTX 4070 series has likely become the preferred high-end option for this generation, especially as both the 4060 and 4080 series faced criticism since their launch. And as always, while waiting for the next big thing for your gaming machine, you can also check out on our comparator to secure the finest deal on your next favorite game.