Nvidia may scale back production of its 16GB GPUs as global RAM shortages bite.
Reports suggest the company is prioritising 8GB models like the RTX 5060 and RTX 5060 Ti, while the 16GB variant faces delays and possible cancellation.
The reason is simple: GDDR7 memory supply remains tight, and each 16GB card consumes twice as many chips compared to its 8GB sibling. That makes the larger cards harder to justify when resources are scarce.
Why 16GB cards are at risk
Industry insiders claim Nvidia could cut overall GPU production by up to 40% in early 2026, with mid‑range cards most affected.
The 16GB RTX 5060 Ti sits in the firing line because it requires more memory modules, which could instead be used for higher‑margin products like the RTX 5080. In a market where supply is limited, Nvidia appears to be protecting profitability and ensuring gamers still have access to affordable options.
Impact on gamers and creators
This is almost incapacitating news for gamers worldwide. Many titles now recommend more than 8GB of VRAM for smooth performance, especially at higher resolutions. Creators working with video editing or 3D rendering also benefit from larger memory pools.
Cutting back 16GB cards risks leaving mainstream buyers with fewer future‑proof options. The frustration is compounded by rising RAM prices, which industry voices warn could disrupt gaming for years.
While Nvidia has not confirmed these reports, the supply chain chatter feels credible given the scale of the memory crunch. If the company does abandon 16GB cards temporarily, we may see a stronger focus on premium GPUs and cloud gaming services to bridge the gap.
Not to sound like a hoarder, and we aren’t suggesting this, but the best advice we can give is to act quickly if a 16GB model appears on shelves, as availability could shrink fast.
