Video memory is not enough: RTX 5060 Ti 8GB is not enough for modern games
By ForGeeks The difference between the 8GB and 16GB versions of Nvidia’s RTX 5060 Ti graphics card was much more noticeable than expected. In VRAM-intensive games such as Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered and when using advanced frame-rate generation features, the 8GB version lags behind the older model.
Fresh tests published by a Chinese reviewer on the Bilibili platform show that under certain workloads, the junior version literally suffocates from a lack of memory. The situation is especially critical in modern AAA games with 4x frame-rate generation enabled – in such scenarios, video memory becomes the bottleneck.
Tests show 2x gap in Cyberpunk 2077
In Cyberpunk 2077 at 1440p resolution and max settings with DLSS 4 in Quality mode (no frame generation), the RTX 5060 Ti 8GB shows only 9.1 frames per second. While the 16GB version produces 18.5 FPS – exactly twice as much. The gap is obvious, and it is directly related to the amount of video memory.
When activating 2x Frame Generation, the difference is smoothed out: 61 FPS at 8GB and 62 FPS at 16GB. However, switching to 4x Frame Generation again reveals the VRAM shortage, with the higher model delivering 113 FPS, while the lower model is limited to 92.4 FPS – a 22% gap.
The difference is evened out, with the higher model delivering 113 FPS, while the lower model is limited to 92.4 FPS – a 22% gap.
Horizon Zero Dawn is even worse for 8GB
While Cyberpunk can still achieve acceptable performance with DLSS, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered is definitely in favor of the 16GB model. At 1080p resolution the difference in average frame rate reaches 29%, and at 1440p – 16%. But the most critical is the indicator of 1% lows (frame sags), which is 30% worse in the 8GB version. This directly affects the smoothness and comfort of gameplay.
It’s no wonder: the system requirements for Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered clearly state that 16GB of video memory is required for an optimal experience.
There’s almost no difference in simple games
In less demanding projects like Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, there’s not much of a gap. Both versions confidently deliver 60 FPS at Full HD. For these games, 8GB is still enough, unless you’re talking about high resolutions or enabling technologies like Frame Generation.
Nvidia in no hurry to promote 8GB version
It’s notable that Nvidia hasn’t sent the 8GB version of the RTX 5060 Ti to reviews, which may indicate that it’s aware of its limitations. With the increasing demands of modern gaming and the active adoption of AI technologies in rendering, the 16GB model makes more sense.
The price difference between the two versions is about $50: the base model costs $379, while the 16GB variant will cost $429. However, in the context of durability and future compatibility with new games, the overpayment seems justified.
