AMD Advocates 8GB VRAM for GPUs: Tailored for Esports Enthusiasts!

Current Graphics Card Dilemma: Nvidia and AMD have been facing criticism for selling mid-range graphics cards with just 8GB of VRAM. This trend is concerning, especially as independent benchmarks show that low VRAM can limit performance. Despite the backlash, AMD continues to defend its budget-friendly options, even though many gamers feel the pinch.

Recently, AMD’s Frank Azor spoke out about the Radeon RX 9060 XT, which has models with 8GB and 16GB of VRAM. He argued that 8GB is enough for 1080p gaming, the most popular resolution among players. His claim is based on the fact that a significant number of gamers are still playing at this setting, particularly in popular esports titles.

“Majority of gamers are still playing at 1080p. We wouldn’t build it if there wasn’t a market for it. If 8GB isn’t right for you then there’s 16GB.”

– Frank Azor

However, while 8GB may seem sufficient, our reviews show that it can lead to problems. In 2025, many games are playable with 8GB, but those with higher memory can provide a smoother experience. For instance, the RTX 5060 Ti’s 8GB version can suffer in low-frame rate situations and even crash in some games that run well with 16GB. This difference can be noticeable, especially for titles like *Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2* where texture quality suffers at higher settings.

Interestingly, Steam’s data shows that about 55% of players still use 1080p, but the rise of 4K gaming means more VRAM might become necessary. As gamers seek to play demanding titles, many now look to budget GPUs. These can surprisingly deliver decent performance, provided they have enough VRAM and use smart upscaling tech.

Azor’s comments highlight that AMD recognizes the esports market is vast. Games like *Counter-Strike 2* and *Dota 2* run well even on less powerful GPUs. However, the conversation around VRAM raises questions about how long these cards will remain relevant. The first AMD GPU with 8GB, the Radeon RX 480, debuted nearly nine years ago at a lower price than today’s options. As next-gen consoles are expected to push for more than 20GB of memory, the future of 8GB cards looks uncertain.

In conclusion, while the gaming industry continues to evolve, the debate over VRAM isn’t going away. It’s essential for gamers to consider their choices carefully and stay informed about the tech landscape as it changes.

For more insights on VRAM evolution, check out this article.

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