Is the GeForce RTX 4090 on its Last Legs? Dwindling Stock and Rumors of Discontinuation
The powerful GeForce RTX 4090, NVIDIA’s flagship graphics card, has been a coveted piece of hardware for enthusiasts and professional users alike. However, recent developments suggest a potential shift in availability, leaving many wondering: Is NVIDIA stopping production of the RTX 4090?
Signs of a Shrinking Supply
Reports from German retailers like Alternate, Caseking, and Mindfactory paint a worrying picture. These major stores are experiencing a rapid depletion of RTX 4090 stock, with most models vanishing from their shelves. This trend is not isolated to Germany, with similar shortages popping up in the US, Poland, and potentially other regions.
Earlier-Than-Expected Discontinuation?
While rumors initially suggested a potential October 2024 discontinuation for the RTX 4090, the current situation seems to be accelerating that timeline. This sudden drop in availability raises questions about the reasons behind it.
Possible Explanations
Several theories attempt to explain the RTX 4090’s dwindling availability:
- Preparation for the Next Generation: One explanation points towards NVIDIA’s alleged plans to unveil the RTX 50 series, potentially including the RTX 5090 and 5080, at CES 2025. Retailers may be clearing out existing RTX 4090 stock to make room for the upcoming generation.
- Price Hike Speculation: The RTX 4090’s price has witnessed a significant hike since its launch earlier this year. This could be a tactic by retailers to maximize profits before the launch of the new generation, leading to a deliberate reduction in readily available stock.
- Production Issues (Unconfirmed): While there’s no concrete evidence, some speculate that production issues could be another factor contributing to the decline in RTX 4090 availability. This remains unconfirmed and requires further investigation.
Current State of Availability
The RTX 4090 hasn’t completely disappeared, but finding one readily available might require more effort than before. Prices in the US have also gone up, with major retailers like Newegg listing the card for $300 above the MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price).
Is Now the Time to Buy an RTX 4090?
The decision depends on your needs and priorities. If you require the absolute best performance currently available and are willing to pay a premium for it, the RTX 4090 may still be an option. However, if you’re flexible and prioritize value, waiting for the potential price drop before discontinuation or looking towards the next generation of cards could be a wiser move.
Looking Forward
The exact reasons for the RTX 4090’s dwindling supply remain unclear. Whether it’s a strategic move by retailers, preparation for the next generation, or production issues, one thing is evident: the once readily available flagship card is becoming increasingly difficult to find. We can expect more information to surface in the coming weeks, with CES 2025 potentially revealing the true successor to the RTX 4090.
