Just when we thought the problem with GPU scalpers flooding the market for the latest graphics cards and driving up prices was over, a different picture emerges with the launch of the Nvidia RTX 4080 Super. This graphics card, which quickly became a favorite for high-end PC builds, has now become the latest target of scalpers, making regularly priced units almost impossible to find.
Challenges when buying the RTX 4080 Super
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Super has quickly gained a spot in the recommendations for the best graphics cards due to its price drop compared to the original model and a slight performance improvement. In an instant, it went from being the card with the worst price-performance ratio in the RTX 4000 series to the most coveted one. It's no wonder that it has gained popularity.
However, a look at US online retailers and Nvidia's own online store shows that almost all units of the card are sold out at the standard price of 999 euros. At the same time, sellers on platforms like Newegg are offering the RTX 4080 Super Founders Edition at absurdly high prices of up to 1,550 euros - a markup of over 500 euros.
A glimmer of hope
Despite the unfavorable development, there is reason to hope that the situation is not as bleak as in the dark days of the COVID pandemic. Some models are still available at prices that are only slightly above the MSRP.
These prices reflect the general trend of graphics card prices dropping, with a wide range of AMD and Nvidia cards now being more affordable than ever before. There is also hope that the speculation around the RTX 4080 Super is just a temporary phenomenon that could subside once more inventory becomes available. With some patience, it might be possible to purchase a card at the MSRP again in the near future.
Alternatives and advice
For those looking to build a gaming PC with a powerful graphics card, there are fortunately plenty of alternatives. Our guide to the best graphics cards offers a variety of options at different price points, including the sleek RTX 4070 Super Founders Edition in black or the budget-friendly Radeon RX 7800 XT - ideal for those who prioritize ray tracing performance less.
Personal assessment: Patience pays off
The situation surrounding the Nvidia RTX 4080 Super is a clear example of how scalping can impact the market for consumers. However, it also shows that by being patient and taking a flexible approach to purchasing a new graphics card, the challenges can be overcome. In the long run, the efforts of manufacturers and retailers to combat scalping, as well as the general price trends in the graphics card market, could lead to a more relaxed situation.
