Graphical processing unit (GPU) prices are dropping steadily due to the cryptocurrency crash. Multiple models are on offer for prices that seemed like bargains five months ago.
Cryptocurrency is going through a tough year. Bitcoin (BTC) dropped over 50 percent since the beginning of this year, dropping from $48,000 to roughly $20,000. Celsius – a major crypto bank – suspended withdrawals and crypto exchange Coinbase announced layoffs after halting hiring.
Believe it or not, there’s some positive news for gamers and PC builders. As monitored by Tom’s Hardware, costs for used and new GPUs fell further, plunging from their all-time high in early 2022.
Steep drop
Now, it’s possible to go to Newegg, Best Buy, or Amazon, and purchase current-generation graphics cards for costs that might have appeared like bargains five months ago. Costs for used graphics cards have fallen even further. .
As Tom’s Hardware notes, most mid-range Nvidia GeForce RTX 3000 series cards still sell slightly over or at the MRSP. The 3070, 3060 and 3050 are in demand. However, top-end 3090 and 3080 Ti GPUs are selling below MSRPs, just like all of the AMD Radeon RX 6000 series cards.
Proceed carefully with used GPUs
Purchasers of used graphics cards should proceed with care. Besides bait-and-switches and scams that may come with all high-value eBay purchases, GPUs that mined crypto at full-tilt for several months may have issues that new GPUs don’t have.
The heat produced by consistent use in high-density mining farms can degrade efficiency and performance, as can dry thermal paste or dust. If you’ve purchased a used GPU that runs hot or looks dirty, cleaning and replacing the fan, heat-sink and thermal paste could help revive lost efficiency and extend lifespan.
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