NVIDIA’s RTX 5080 24 GB Could Arrive As Early As December With 50% More VRAM, As 16 GB Models Already Sell For Over $2,000 - Wccftech
NVIDIA is accelerating the launch of its 24GB GeForce RTX 5080 graphics card, which could arrive as early as December 2026, featuring 50% more VRAM than the existing model.
The new 24GB model represents a significant upgrade over the existing RTX 5080, which has been selling for over $2,000 despite its $999 MSRP. This launch comes amid persistent memory supply constraints that DRAM manufacturers warn could continue until 2030, with the situation potentially worsening in the coming year.
NVIDIA has reportedly cleared its inventory of 16GB RTX 5080 GPUs, which should last approximately two months until the new products are released. The company will discontinue existing models like the RTX 5090D V2 and the 16GB RTX 5080 specifically for Chinese markets, focusing instead on the new 24GB RTX 5080 series.
Launch Timeline
According to Board Channels, the RTX 5080 24GB is now targeting an earlier-than-anticipated release window, with availability possible as early as December 2026 or as late as January 2027. A January launch would allow NVIDIA to showcase the card during CES 2027, though the company may opt for an earlier debut if supply constraints permit.
Market Impact
The 24GB RTX 5080 will carry a higher price than its 16GB counterpart due to its increased DRAM configuration. This comes as NVIDIA faces criticism for GPU prices that have skyrocketed, with the RTX 5090 already selling for over $7,000 compared to its $1,999 MSRP.
NVIDIA is accelerating the launch of the RTX 5080 24G series, expecting it to be available around January, possibly as early as December, or as late as January.
AI Competition
NVIDIA's increased focus on local AI capabilities means the 24GB RTX 5080 may be quickly acquired by AI firms before reaching gamers. This pattern has already emerged in Chinese markets, where RTX 5090 graphics cards are being stockpiled and sold to AI companies rather than gaming enthusiasts.
The new card's relationship to the previously rumored RTX 5080 SUPER remains unclear. If the 24GB model incorporates the SUPER's rumored specifications—including higher clock speeds, faster memory pin speeds, and increased bandwidth—it could offer significant performance gains. However, if it merely adds VRAM without other improvements, the performance difference might not justify the expected premium price.
Related
