Buy a GPU now? AI demand could push consumer memory and GPU prices higher

Rapid growth in AI infrastructure demand is reallocating memory and components toward server and data‑center customers, and that shift is already squeezing consumer supplies. Manufacturers are prioritizing high‑margin, commercial orders, which has driven recent spikes in DDR5 and SSD prices and threatens to push GPU prices up as GDDR memory tightens.

Micron’s reported decision to wind down its Crucial consumer business and industry reports of rising RAM and VRAM costs mean there may be only a short window to buy desktop GPUs at reasonable prices. If you need an upgrade, experts recommend buying sooner rather than later — and choosing cards with at least 12–16GB of VRAM to future‑proof performance.

Why prices could rise

• Data‑center demand for server‑grade SSDs and LPDDR5X memory is consuming wafer capacity and production, reducing consumer supply.
• GDDR6 price increases would directly raise GPU manufacturing costs; rumors suggest vendors may raise MSRPs or face supply cuts.
• Delays in next‑generation GPU launches and constrained memory supply could keep existing card prices elevated through 2026.

Recommended GPU picks (budget → performance)

• Intel Arc B580 — a budget option if you can tolerate occasional driver rough edges; good value under ~$300.
• NVIDIA RTX 5060 Ti (16GB) — our top midrange pick; prioritize the 16GB variant for longevity. Search options: RTX 5060 Ti on Amazon.
• AMD Radeon RX 9070 / 9070 XT — strong mid‑range performers; the 9070 offers excellent value, while the 9070 XT is for higher performance needs.
• NVIDIA RTX 5070 Ti — a higher‑end pick for 4K or sustained high‑settings gaming; consider MSRP and vendor availability. Search: RTX 5070 Ti on Amazon.

Buying tips

• Aim for 12GB–16GB of VRAM minimum for future‑proofing, especially if you game at 1440p or 4K.
• Watch for short‑term deals but don’t wait too long if you urgently need an upgrade — component shortages can reverse the price trend quickly.
• Check trusted retailers (Newegg, Amazon) for verified stock and avoid speculative resellers marking up cards heavily.

For more background, see the original reporting on industry memory pressure and pricing trends: Engadget analysis.

Discussion: Are you planning to buy a GPU now because of potential price hikes — or will you wait for new models and hope prices stabilize? Which card would you choose and why?