We already know that PC gamers want more VRAM, and this has been obvious in GPU sales figures so far this year. Both AMD and Nvidia have released 8GB and 16GB versions of some of their cheapest current-gen graphics cards, but if you want to pay MSRP (Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price) for one, research shows that this is more likely with the cheaper 8GB models.

Based on research conducted by popular hardware reviewers, Gamers Nexus, all three 8GB graphics cards this generation (the RTX 5060, 5060 Ti, and RX 9060 XT) are closer to their MSRP, percentage-wise, than the cards above them. This includes the 16GB versions of the 5060 Ti and 9060 XT.

Graphics cards are still overpriced in the U.S.

There has been a lot of frustration and debate over the state of the GPU market this year. Back when Nvidia’s RTX 50 and AMD’s RX 9000 series cards first released, they were hit by low stock issues, scalpers, and inflated prices. It still hasn’t fully recovered, especially in the U.S., and many SKUs remain above MSRP by a significant amount.

Nvidia’s RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 are more than 50% more expensive on average compared to MSRP in the U.S., even though we’ve seen both of these cards below the recommended price in Europe. One retailer in the UK is selling ‘B-Grade’ models for relatively cheap, too.

The RX 9070, a GPU that AMD proudly marketed as the “world’s best $549 graphics card“, is 21.82% more expensive than MSRP on average. It’s even worse for the 9070 XT, which is a whopping 45.91% more expensive, with Gamers Nexus noting that they could find just one XT model selling for MSRP across Newegg, Amazon, and Best Buy from first-party sellers. The average price has shot all the way up to $875, a stark contrast to its recommended $599 price tag.

Source: Gamers Nexus

Source: Gamers Nexus

Source: Gamers Nexus

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You’re likely to come across an MSRP listing for the current 8GB models. One disappointing reality with these stats is the current state of Intel’s Arc Battlemage cards. According to the charts, neither the Intel Arc B580 nor B570 is available for MSRP right now in the United States. These budget cards could battle with Nvidia’s and AMD’s 8GB options, for the right price, especially since the B580 and B570 offer 12GB and 10GB of VRAM, respectively.

About the Author

Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.