Nvidia has stopped manufacturing its RTX 3060 Founders Edition graphics card, popular among gaming enthusiasts. The report, initially emerged on a Chinese tech forum, was later corroborated by Tom's Hardware.
Remaining Inventory and Market Consequences
Although production has ceased, the RTX 3060 will still be available through existing retail stock. Retailers will sell remaining units, and Nvidia will sustain driver updates and support for the GPU, ensuring it remains functional. Priced around $285, the RTX 3060 has been a budget-friendly option for gamers, standing as a cost-effective alternative to models like the RTX 4060.
Nvidia's decision to halt the RTX 3060 production aligns with its broader market strategy. The company has directed its board partners to finalize their remaining orders for the RTX 3060, effectively ending its production life almost four years post its debut in February 2021.
Alternative Options for Consumers
For those seeking graphics cards below the $300 bracket, alternatives such as AMD's RX 6700 XT and RX 6750 XT present compelling options with 12GB VRAM and superior performance. Nevertheless, the RTX 3060 continues to be a viable choice for budget gamers due to its balance of affordability and performance.
The RTX 3060 has maintained strong demand, as highlighted by Valve's July 2024 Software and Hardware Survey on Steam, where it was the most used graphic card, holding a 5.71% market share. Its popularity surged post the stabilization of prices following the crypto-mining boom, making it a valued choice for its price point.
Ongoing Support and Viability
Despite halting its production, Nvidia will continue providing driver updates and further support, ensuring the RTX 3060 remains useful for current users. This commitment underscores Nvidia's focus on supporting its existing products even as it promotes newer technologies. The RTX 3060's production halt signifies the end of a notable period since its launch in February 2021. Throughout its lifecycle, the card saw upgrades that improved its VRAM performance, securing its marketplace position.
