RTX 3070 graphics card launch delayed by Nvidia to ensure "more cards available"

RTX 3070 graphics card launch delayed by Nvidia to ensure "more cards available"
(Image credit: Nvidia)

Nvidia has delayed the release of the RTX 3070 card to October 29, 2020.

In the company's own words, this is to make "more cards available on launch day". This is seemingly a clear nod of recognition at the somewhat chaotic release and pre-order situation that came with the release of the RTX 3080 and RTX 3090 card which sold out in moments.

Because the 3070 is the cheapest entry point into the new series at the price mark of $499 in the US and £469 in the UK, there was a real danger of history repeating itself. So, while it might be frustrating in the first instance and you'll have to wait just a little longer, this is a good thing in the long run as more folk should actually be able to get one. 

As per the Nvidia blog post, "we know this may be disappointing to those eager to purchase a GeForce RTX 3070 as soon as possible, however, this shift will help our global partners get more graphics cards into the hands of gamers on launch day."

RTX 3070 graphics card launch delayed by Nvidia to ensure "more cards available"

(Image credit: Nvidia)

Although the RTX 3070 is less powerful than the 3080 and 3090, it's still a very attractive piece of kit. It offers a performance that's double the 2070 graphics card and is also a faster - or, at least, as fast - as the beast of this generation, the 2080Ti. As a cost-effective way into the next-generation of graphics cards, it's likely to waltz it's way easily best graphics cards lists everywhere.  

This value will mean the 3070 offers an affordable entry point to gaming at 1440p resolutions with high and steady frame rates, making it a perfect contender for a lean but mean build in the years to come. 

If you needed reminding of the new graphics card range, the RTX 30 series offers a massive jump in generational performance and for a much lower price than expected, confirmed in all the Nvidia RTX 3080 review round-up we saw. When combined with the best CPU for gaming, they should be rather impressive.

If you're a bit turned off by the idea of fitting the RTX 3070 yourself, it will almost certainly be arriving in the best gaming laptops and the best gaming PCs before long. Otherwise, keep an eye on the official Nvidia store and all the usual retailers for stock this October 29.  

Be sure to check out our guide to the best gaming monitor if you want some help finding a 1440p companion to your graphic card upgrade.


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Benjamin Abbott
Tabletop & Merch Editor

As the site's Tabletop & Merch Editor, you'll find my grubby paws on everything from board game reviews to the latest Lego news. I've been writing about games in one form or another since 2012, and can normally be found cackling over some evil plan I've cooked up for my group's next Dungeons & Dragons campaign.