The latest reports suggest Nvidia is discontinuing production of most of its RTX 40-series graphics cards, signaling a shift towards the upcoming RTX 50-series. While no official announcement has been made by Nvidia, sources like Board Channels, reported by VideoCardz, indicate a significant change in production strategy. This move has already impacted market availability, especially for high-demand cards.
RTX 4090 and Other High-End GPUs Affected
The RTX 4090, Nvidia’s flagship GPU, appears to be among the first casualties of this production shift. Already a scarce commodity, the RTX 4090’s availability is expected to worsen now that production has ceased. Current prices on platforms like Amazon hover around $2,000, far exceeding the original MSRP.
The RTX 4070 Super on a pink background.
This trend extends beyond the RTX 4090. Reports indicate that production of GPUs based on the AD102, AD103, AD104, and AD106 chips has also been halted. These chips power a range of RTX 40-series cards, further limiting options for consumers.
AD107 Remains in Production
One notable exception to this production halt is the AD107 chip. This budget-friendly GPU, found in cards like the RTX 4050 and RTX 4060, as well as their laptop counterparts, remains in production. This is likely due to the longer lead time expected before Nvidia launches mainstream RTX 50-series laptop GPUs.
Impact on Consumers and Future Availability
While the immediate impact on consumers is minimal, with existing stock still available, the long-term effects are more significant. As inventories dwindle, prices for remaining RTX 40-series cards are expected to rise, mirroring the price trajectory of the older RTX 30-series.
Looking Ahead to the RTX 50-Series
With production of the RTX 40-series winding down, attention turns to the RTX 50-series. Current rumors suggest a January 2025 launch for the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080. This anticipated release provides a potential timeline for consumers looking to upgrade to the next generation of Nvidia GPUs.
Conclusion
The discontinuation of most RTX 40-series GPUs marks a transition period in the graphics card market. While current availability remains, consumers should anticipate rising prices and limited stock in the coming months. The anticipated arrival of the RTX 50-series in early 2025 presents a compelling alternative for those seeking the latest advancements in graphics technology.
