Depreciation is your friend ยท Chapter 05
Used market market.
The used GPU market is where the best value lives and where the worst stories start. The rules: prefer listings with the original box and a return window, ask what the card was used for, check connectors and fan bearings on arrival, and remember that AI demand keeps 24GB CUDA cards priced like they never aged.
The ranking
6 cards01
NVIDIAUsed marketUsed AI classic
GeForce RTX 3090 (used)
The budget ticket to 24GB of CUDA. The local AI community's favorite used card for a reason.
24GBGDDR6X
$1,499launch msrp
350Wboard power
2020released
02
NVIDIAUsed marketUsed flagship
GeForce RTX 4090 (used)
Out of production, still in demand: 24GB of CUDA keeps its used price stubborn.
24GBGDDR6X
$1,599launch msrp
450Wboard power
2022released
03
NVIDIAUsed marketLast-gen value
GeForce RTX 4070 Super
Last generation's sensible pick, now a used-market bargain hunt.
12GBGDDR6X
$599launch msrp
220Wboard power
2024released
04
NVIDIAUsed marketUsed budget AI
GeForce RTX 3060 12GB (used)
The accidental AI starter card: 12GB and CUDA at pocket-money used prices.
12GBGDDR6
$329launch msrp
170Wboard power
2021released
05
AMDLast-gen value
Radeon RX 7800 XT
Last generation's 1440p favorite, now living on discounts.
16GBGDDR6
$499msrp
263Wboard power
2023released
06
AMD24GB alternative
Radeon RX 7900 XTX
The cheapest way to 24GB of VRAM in a card you can still buy new.
24GBGDDR6
$999msrp
355Wboard power
2022released