Nvidia adds $4,999 64GB DGX Spark as memory costs rise
Nvidia has unveiled a more affordable version of its DGX Spark AI system, configured with 64GB of memory and storage (half the standard capacity) and priced at approximately $4,999. This move reflects the acute shortage and rising costs of computer memory, which has forced Nvidia to increase the price of its full-spec 128GB DGX Spark to $6,950, representing a 75 per cent increase from a year earlier. The more affordable option aims to make advanced AI computing hardware accessible to a broader market.
The new 64GB configuration maintains the same memory bandwidth (273 GB/s) as higher-capacity versions, making it suitable for AI inference tasks and running models in the 26-35 billion parameter range, though less ideal for more demanding workloads such as fine-tuning. The system will be sold exclusively through hardware partners including Dell, HP, Asus, and others, and retains features such as the MediaTek 20-core Arm processor and ConnectX-7 networking capabilities. However, the pricing pressures affecting DGX Spark are expected to impact Nvidia's forthcoming RTX Spark notebooks and mini PCs, which face competitive pressure from AMD's newly launched Gorgon Halo SoCs, currently priced lower than Nvidia's flagship models.
- Nvidia cuts DGX Spark to $4,999 with half the memory and storage
- Memory shortage forces 128GB model to $6,950, up 75% in a year
- New configuration suited for AI inference but not intensive training tasks
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Nvidia's DGX Spark is a specialised computer system developed for running artificial intelligence applications in businesses and research organisations. It uses Nvidia's specially designed components to perform AI tasks efficiently, making it valuable for companies working with advanced machine learning technology.
The sector has faced shortages and rising costs of computer memory, an essential component for storing data and the models that AI systems process. Larger memory capacity is particularly critical because it allows these systems to handle more complex applications. Over the past year, these cost increases have forced manufacturers including Nvidia to substantially raise their prices.
Rising memory costs are reshaping the AI hardware market as manufacturers adjust their pricing strategies. Rival firms such as AMD are launching competing products at various price points, putting pressure on established players like Nvidia to maintain competitiveness. The intensity of this competition is likely to drive more varied product options across the industry.
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Originally published by The Register as “Nvidia debuts $4,999 DGX Spark with half the RAM and storage, amid memory crunch”.