Nvidia’s recent launch of the RTX 5060 series, including the RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB, RTX 5060 Ti 8 GB, and RTX 5060, has raised concerns about the viability of the 8 GB models due to their insufficient VRAM for modern gaming, with critics questioning their pricing and market strategy. The company’s focus on the 16 GB variant and limited review samples for the 8 GB models have led to skepticism about Nvidia’s confidence in these products as the launch date approaches.
In the recent unveiling of the GeForce RTX 5060 series, Nvidia introduced three new graphics cards: the RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB, the RTX 5060 Ti 8 GB, and the RTX 5060. However, there are concerns that Nvidia is attempting to downplay the 8 GB models, particularly the RTX 5060 Ti 8 GB, due to its insufficient VRAM for modern gaming. The launch is set for April 16th, 2023, with the 16 GB variant priced at $430 and the 8 GB version at $380. The RTX 5060, also an 8 GB model, will be released in May for $300. The pricing is subject to potential US tariffs, which could affect the final retail prices.
The specifications of the RTX 5060 Ti models include a core based on Nvidia’s GB 206 die, with both configurations featuring 4,680 CUDA cores and a boost clock of 2.57 GHz. They utilize a 128-bit memory bus with 28 Gbps GDDR7 memory, yielding a bandwidth of 448 GB per second. The RTX 5060 is expected to have 3,840 CUDA cores and similar memory specifications but is projected to be limited by its VRAM in many gaming scenarios. Nvidia claims the 5060 Ti will deliver approximately 20% more performance than the RTX 4060 Ti, while the RTX 5060 is said to offer a 20-25% uplift over the RTX 4060.
Criticism arises regarding the pricing strategy for the 8 GB models, with many experts believing that an 8 GB card should not exceed $200 in 2025. Both the RTX 5060 Ti 8 GB and the RTX 5060 are perceived as poor value, especially given the current gaming landscape that increasingly demands more VRAM. The 16 GB variant is viewed more favorably, as it is priced lower than previous models and offers better performance metrics. However, the existence of the 8 GB models raises questions about their market viability and Nvidia’s intentions.
The launch strategy appears muddled, with Nvidia only providing review samples for the 16 GB variant, which raises concerns about the 8 GB models being overshadowed or “buried.” The mixed messaging from Nvidia regarding the launch dates and review availability has led to skepticism about their confidence in the 8 GB models. The company has suggested that the audience for the RTX 5060 isn’t enthusiasts, which many believe is a flawed assumption, given the popularity of the 60 series among mainstream gamers.
Overall, the launch of the RTX 5060 series has been met with skepticism and confusion. Nvidia’s handling of the 8 GB models, coupled with questionable marketing claims about performance, has left many wondering about the company’s confidence in these products. As the launch date approaches, there is anticipation for reviews to clarify the actual performance and value of these new graphics cards, especially the contentious 8 GB models.