Difference between GDDR6, GDDR6X and GDDR7

The next generation of graphics card memory, GDDR7, is expected to launch in 2024. Faster graphics memory is one of the keys to unlocking much faster processing capabilities for the next generation of GPUs, with Nearly every GPU since Nvidia's 2000 Series and AMD's 5000 Series uses GDDR6 or GDDR6X (Nvidia GPUs only).

But now the time for new and faster graphics card memory is near. Here's what you need to know about GDDR7, along with the improvements it will bring over GDDR6 and GDDR6X.

What is GDDR7?

GDDR7 is the next generation of graphics card memory, expected to launch in 2024 to increase graphics performance. GDDR7 will deliver major performance upgrades, improving data throughput, increasing bandwidth, and delivering better power efficiency to ensure the next generation of GPUs can deliver significant performance increases over with current GDDR6 and GDDR6X supporting cards.

It's likely that any new generation Nvidia or AMD GPUs will use GDDR7 memory but nothing has been confirmed yet. If the prediction is correct, this change will bring a significant difference compared to previous generations.

For example, GDDR6X memory runs at a maximum capacity of 24Gbps and GDDR6 at a maximum speed of 20Gbps. GDDR7 is set to run at 32Gbps, which is a significant increase over GDDR6X - so the performance gain from the new graphics card memory is likely to be huge (depending on a variety of factors) .

But that's not the only benefit that GDDR7 brings compared to its predecessors.

Compare GDDR6X, GDDR6 and GDDR7

Currently, GDDR7 specifications are not speculative. JEDEC, the semiconductor standards organization, published the GDDR7 RAM specifications in March 2024, confirming the new standard, so we know the specific improvements the new generation will bring.

Faster data speeds

The main benefit of GDDR7 for gaming is its outstanding speed. While GDDR6 can handle speeds of up to 20Gbps (gigabits per second) per pin, and GDDR6X pushed that speed to 24Gbps, GDDR7 races at speeds of up to 32Gbps (though according to Hardware LUXX, the chipmaker SK Hynix may be working on a 40Gbps chip). This increase in data rate means more data can be moved quickly between the GPU and memory, reducing bottlenecks and ensuring smoother frame rates even in graphics-intensive situations. height.

For gamers, this means high-resolution textures load faster and reduce latency, improving overall game smoothness and responsiveness.

Greater chip density

Chip density refers to the amount of data stored on a memory chip. The higher the chip density, the more data the chip can hold. For example, GDDR7 can have a chip density of up to 64Gb per chip, double the 32Gb typically found in GDDR6X chips.

For gaming, this increased chip density will deliver more efficient performance and handling of complex graphics. High-density chips like those in GDDR7 allow console and PC games to store more texture, shade, and game data directly on the graphics card, reducing processing time.

PAM3

PAM3, or 3-level Pulse Amplitude Modulation, is the signal technology used in GDDR7 to enhance graphics memory performance. Unlike traditional binary signaling methods (where each signal pulse represents one of two possible values, 0 or 1), PAM3 uses three separate voltage levels.

This allows each pulse to encode more information - specifically 1 of 3 values ​​(0, 1 or 2), effectively increasing the data transfer rate without a corresponding increase in clock speed.

The adoption of PAM3 in GDDR7 facilitates significantly higher data transfer speeds compared to older generations. For gamers, this means graphics are rendered faster and smoother, supporting higher resolutions and more detailed visual effects with less strain on the system.

GDDR6X uses PAM4 encoding, allowing 4 different voltage levels. However, JEDEC believes that PAM3 is more stable and effective against GDDR7.

Better power and heat management

GDDR7 is designed to deliver significant improvements in thermal and power management, while also improving efficiency.

First, GDDR7 memory uses approximately 20% less power than GDDR6, providing immediate energy savings. Second, GDDR7 uses a lower operating voltage of 1.20 volts for the core and I/O compared to the 1.35 volts typically used in GDDR6 and GDDR6X. Lower voltage levels reduce overall power consumption, which again increases energy efficiency.

Reducing power consumption will also help with heat handling, which is an issue for some of the newest GPUs. Samsung's GDDR7 memory uses all-new packaging materials and an optimized circuit design to reduce heat generation, helping the hardware operate at peak performance for longer.

When will GDDR7 be released?

Although there is no specific GDDR7 launch date, the new memory is expected to launch in late 2024 and early 2025. Nvidia and AMD will likely both use GDDR7 memory, but there is no specific information at this time. writing point. However, expert Kepler shared on X that AMD's upcoming RDNA 4 architecture (which will power the company's next GPUs) will still use GDDR6 memory, which will be a significant disadvantage. Even if Nvidia switches from the already more powerful GDDR6X memory to GDDR7.

Marvin Fry

Update 07 May 2024