GDDR5X (Graphics Double Data Rate 5X) is an enhanced version of the GDDR5 memory standard, designed to deliver higher performance and improved efficiency for GPUs and high-performance computing applications. Introduced in 2016 by Micron Technology, GDDR5X increased data transfer rates significantly compared to GDDR5, supporting speeds of up to 14 Gbps per pin. This improvement allowed GPUs to handle more demanding workloads, such as 4K gaming, real-time rendering, and AI applications, with greater efficiency. The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080, launched in 2016, was one of the first GPUs to feature GDDR5X memory. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GDDR5X

One of the key advancements of GDDR5X is its ability to operate in quad-data rate (QDR) mode, effectively doubling the data rate compared to GDDR5. This innovation improved memory bandwidth without significantly increasing power consumption. GDDR5X also featured reduced latency and improved signal integrity, enabling GPUs to achieve better performance in scenarios requiring high memory throughput, such as high-fidelity gaming and professional 3D modeling. GPUs like the NVIDIA Titan X (Pascal) leveraged these capabilities for exceptional performance. https://www.micron.com/products/dram/gddr5x

Despite its advancements, GDDR5X had a relatively short lifespan as it was quickly succeeded by GDDR6, which offered even greater performance and efficiency. However, GDDR5X played a crucial role in bridging the gap between GDDR5 and GDDR6, setting the stage for next-generation memory technologies. Its legacy can be seen in GPUs that pushed the boundaries of gaming and computational workloads during its time. https://www.techpowerup.com/review/micron-gddr5x/