Palit is seemingly preparing a passive version of Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 3050 6GB graphics card using its KalmX series fanless cooler. It seems like a perfect combo for an expected energy efficient model.
Following the recent rumours regarding a cut-down RTX 3050 graphics card, three models from Palit have cropped up. Packing only 6GB of GDDR6 VRAM instead of 8GB, these cards will see their memory bus reduced to 96-bit. At the same time, Palit will reduce power consumption to 115W from 130W, fed via a single 6-pin connector. The most notable part, however, is pricing. We expect it to sit around $180, allowing Nvidia to provide GPUs under $200.
While this new version is likely to reuse the GA106-150 again, it wouldn’t be surprising to see its frequency lowered. According to Palit’s RTX 3050 StormX OC 6GB listing, the GPU will be clocked at 1,042MHz base and 1,777MHz Boost. In other words, much lower than the RTX 3050 8GB 1,552MHz base clock, even though the boost didn’t change. That said, at least the CUDA core count seems unchanged. This is already a low-end GPU, cutting it further could make it unappealing.
To be specific, Palit is offering:
- GeForce RTX 3050 StormX OC 6GB
- GeForce RTX 3050 StormX 6GB
- GeForce RTX 3050 KalmX 6GB
The former two use dual-slot single-fan designs, whereas the latter takes a passive approach with the KalmX cooler. However, since we don’t have any pictures of this model, we are not sure if Palit is using the original KalmX found on its GTX 1650 and GTX 750 Ti. This fanless model would be excellent for a silent build. We already have the Noctua NH-P1 for passive CPU cooling alongside many fanless/hybrid PSUs. Pushing things a bit further, a 75W lower power version would be much appreciated to get rid of that 6-pin cable.
Keep an eye out for Nvidia’s panel during CES 2024. This is the most likely place the GeForce RTX 3050 6GB will be announced. Availability should come right after.
