Is the GPU market still leaning on legacy models?
Recent sales figures from Amazon U.S., pulled by TechEpiphany, reveal an unexpected trend: older graphics cards keep finding buyers in large numbers, despite being years behind today’s gaming standards.
Key takeaways from July sales
- Nvidia’s RTX 5070 topped the charts as the highest‑selling unit, yet the list also boasts several GPUs released over the last decade.
- The GT 710, arriving in 2014, moved 1,050 units, securing its place in the top 15 by volume.
- Low‑end models such as the GT 1030, GT 730, and even the GT 610 each sold hundreds of copies, proving that budget‑friendly options still attract a sizable market.
- High‑performance cards like the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 generated the bulk of revenue, but their total unit sales remain comparatively low.
- The GT 210—a card once dismissed when it launched in 2009—sold as many units as Intel’s Arc B580.
Market snapshot
Total Units Sold | 41,800 |
---|---|
AMD | 7,750 (18.54%) |
Intel | 1,100 (2.63%) |
Nvidia | 32,950 (78.83%) |
Total Revenue | $20,996,254.50 |
AMD Revenue | $4,284,973.50 (20.41%) |
Intel Revenue | $223,115.00 |
What does this mean for buyers?
- GPU prices fluctuate wildly, placing many PC owners outside the price range for contemporary upgrades.
- Affordable, ultra‑budget cards—like the GT 710 and GT 610—continue to move, even though they perform poorly by today’s playing standards.
- Entry‑level builders and casual users often opt for underpowered or nearly obsolete hardware instead of seeking newer, pricier alternatives.
- While older GPUs can serve non‑gaming purposes, those hoping for a solid gaming experience should consider newer models from the past few generations.
Practical advice for the next build
- Stay alert for promotional deals; a steep price cut can make a current‑generation card more affordable.
- If you don’t need a full‑size discrete GPU, it might be wiser to delay the purchase and wait for market corrections.
- For those on a tight budget, AMD APUs with integrated graphics provide a viable alternative to external GPUs.
In short, while flagship models dominate revenue, the enduring demand for older, budget‑friendly GPUs underscores that a wide variety of choices remain available for any budget, especially in today’s volatile market.