I'm currently using an RTX 4060 Ti with 16 GB of VRAM, and I'm considering an upgrade to either an RTX 5070 or an RX 9070 XT. Both options are priced around 32,000 units in my country, while the RTX 5070 Ti is significantly more expensive at 48,000 units. I really appreciate NVIDIA's features, like Frame Generation and Path Tracing, and I plan to use them when supported by games. My main focus is on playing at 1440p with ultra settings and ray tracing or path tracing, aiming for frame rates between 70 to 100 FPS. However, I'm concerned that the 12 GB VRAM of the RTX 5070 may not be sufficient for the next 3 to 4 years. Should I go for the 9070 XT instead? Can a 12 GB VRAM card handle my gaming needs in the long run?
3 Answers
I just picked up a 9070 XT for about $550 and I've been really enjoying it on my 1440p setup! No regrets here.
Right now, 12 GB VRAM is still plenty for 1440p gaming. I don't foresee a huge jump in VRAM demands in the next few years, mainly due to rising GPU prices and RAM shortages. Although the 5070 offers superior path tracing performance, the 9070 XT excels in raster graphics and normal RT at ultra settings. If it were up to me, I'd grab the 9070 XT instead, particularly if NVIDIA's features aren't a priority for you.
I have to agree. My 4080 Super sometimes uses more than 12 GB in certain games, and the 5070 might not age well. It has enough power to push settings past 12 GB, so 12 GB really feels more like entry level nowadays.
Definitely keep in mind that features like Path Tracing and Multi Frame Generation can easily increase VRAM usage, and 12 GB could struggle with those. If you're okay dropping to high settings sometimes, you might manage, but I'd still recommend the 9070 XT.
Go for the 9070 XT; it’s significantly more future-proof than the 5070 and outperforms it by about 20-30%. It doesn’t stack against the 5070 Ti though. Still, if NVIDIA's features are your main concern, the 5070 is still powerful, especially with the new DLSS 4.5. But, my vote leans towards the 9070 XT.
I’m about to install mine too. Really excited!