Nvidia quietly launches 12GB variant of the GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU

Nvidia has expanded its Blackwell mobile lineup with the quiet launch of the GeForce RTX 5070 12 GB Laptop GPU. This new SKU directly addresses one of the most persistent criticisms of mid-range mobile hardware by providing a significant 50% increase in VRAM over the standard 8GB model.

By utilising high-density 24 Gb (3 GB) GDDR7 modules, Nvidia has found a way to offer higher capacity without redesigning the silicon or the memory controller, making it a seamless drop-in upgrade for laptop manufacturers.

Thanks to the use of these 24 Gb modules, the RTX 5070 12 GB continues to operate on a 128-bit memory bus. As such, the total memory bandwidth remains the same as on the 8GB version at 384 GB/s. The core specifications remain consistent with the original Blackwell GB206 mobile chip, featuring 4,608 CUDA cores and a flexible TDP range of 50W to 100W depending on the laptop's thermal design.

This 12GB variant is intended to coexist with the 8 GB model rather than replace it, giving users a bit more flexibility depending on their budget and whether they want more VRAM. While the laptops carrying this new SKU will likely command a slight premium, they provide a vital middle ground for users who aren't quite ready to jump to the much more expensive 5070 Ti but find an 8GB buffer too restrictive.

KitGuru says: If you were to buy a laptop for gaming, would you choose one powered by this new RTX 5070 12 GB variant?

Become a Patron!