GDDR6 and GDDR7
Types of graphics memory (Graphics DDR) used on GPUs. GDDR7 offers ~50% more bandwidth per pin than GDDR6, enabling faster texture streaming and higher-resolution rendering.
GDDR6 vs GDDR7: what changed?
GDDR7 is the latest generation of graphics memory, debuting on NVIDIA's RTX 50 series. Key improvements over GDDR6: ~50% higher bandwidth per pin (28 Gbps vs 18 Gbps typical), PAM3 signaling replacing NRZ for more data per clock, and improved power efficiency.
GDDR6X was an intermediate step used on RTX 30/40 series that uses PAM4 signaling. It sits between GDDR6 and GDDR7 in bandwidth but at higher power consumption.
In 2026: NVIDIA RTX 50 series uses GDDR7. AMD RDNA 4 uses GDDR6 (keeping costs lower). Intel Arc B-series uses GDDR6.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GDDR7 worth the extra cost?
You don't choose GDDR type separately — it comes with the GPU. But GPUs with GDDR7 generally deliver better bandwidth-per-GB, which means a 12GB GDDR7 card (like the RTX 5070) can compete with 16GB GDDR6 cards in scenarios limited by bandwidth rather than capacity.