Keeping your rig running at peak performance in the ever-evolving GPU market might seem like a heist on your wallet. But with the right tactics, you can stay ahead without bleeding $$$. Here’s how to dominate the upgrade cycle and keep your $$$ in check:

The Depreciation Grid
GPUs don’t hold their value. Check the table below to see how fast they flatline after release. By staying sharp and flipping your tech in time, you’ll keep your rig future-ready without getting caught in a credit sink.

GPU Model	Launch Price	2 Year Value	2.5+ Year Value	% Retained
RTX 4090	$1,599	$1,599	$800	50%
RTX 4080	$1,199	$1,199	$600	50%
RTX 4070	$599	$599	$300	50%
RTX 3090	$999	$999	$400 (4YRS)	40%
RTX 3080	$799	$799	$350 (4YRS)	40%
RTX 3070	$499	$499	$200 (4YRS)	40%
RTX 2080 Ti	$999	$999	$250 (6YRS)	25%
RTX 2080	$799	$799	$200 (6YRS)	25%
RTX 2070	$499	$499	$125 (6YRS)	25%
GTX 1080 Ti	$699	$699	$125 (9YRS)	17%
GTX 1080	$599	$599	$100 (9YRS)	16%
GTX 1070	$379	$379	$75 (9YRS)	19%
GTX 980 Ti	$649	$649	$75 (10YRS)	11%
GTX 980	$549	$549	$50 (10YRS)	9%
GTX 970	$329	$329	$25 (10YRS)	7%

Trash the “Future-Proofing” Myth
Overspending on a GPU “just in case” doesn’t just burn your $$$—it jacks up your power draw, overheats your hab, and turbocharges depreciation. Smarter runners invest only in what they need, swapping out hardware more frequently. This minimizes losses, sidesteps excess thermal output, and keeps you in the bang-for-buck zone.

Choose Your Arsenal Wisely
Match your display resolution to the right GPU class:

2K (1080p): x060-class GPUs

3K (1440p): x070-class GPUs

4K (2160p): x070 Ti-class GPUs

Don’t overgear—let your setup’s needs dictate your investment. 80 & 90-class GPUs are for creators, not gamers.

Upgrade Like a Pro
Offload your GPU within two years of its release. Here’s why:

GPUs lose their edge fast, and warranties cap out at 3 years.

Selling early gives you maximum $$$ back, leaving the new owner with enough peace of mind to seal the deal.

Delay too long, and your tech turns into worthless e-waste.