Modder builds working RTX 3070 with 16GB VRAM using salvaged parts

A hardware modder has successfully created a functioning RTX 3070 with 16GB of VRAM by harvesting memory chips from a dead AMD RX 6800 XT and transplanting them onto a damaged 3070 PCB, according to Tom's Hardware. The frankenstein card includes a physical switch to toggle between 8GB and 16GB modes.

The modded card shows serious performance gains in VRAM-constrained scenarios. In Spider-Man 2 at 4K, the 16GB mode more than doubles framerates compared to the stock 8GB configuration. The mod required precise soldering work to replace the original memory chips and adjust power delivery to support the additional VRAM.

This is a fun proof of concept, but it's not a real solution for most users. The RTX 3070 launched with 8GB because Nvidia limited the memory bus, not because they couldn't fit more chips on the board. If you're hitting VRAM limits at 4K, you're better off buying a 4070 Ti Super or waiting for the 5070 Ti than attempting microsurgery on a three-year-old card.

If you're stuck on a 3070 and wondering which settings to drop first when you hit VRAM walls, run a BetterFPS playbook to see what you can trim without tanking visual quality.