Multiple tech outlets report that US consumers are seeing unusually high and sometimes hard-to-find retail pricing for computer RAM, with some listings jumping sharply over a short period. Coverage links the squeeze to surging demand from AI-focused companies that are buying large volumes of memory-related chips, tightening supply available to everyday device builders and upgraders. Analysts cited by The Register say the situation may take time to unwind, with DRAM pricing not expected to peak until at least 2026, suggesting elevated costs could linger for PC and device buyers.
Multiple tech outlets report that US consumers are seeing unusually high and sometimes hard-to-find retail pricing for computer RAM, with some listings jumping sharply over a short period. Coverage links the squeeze to surging demand from AI-focused companies that are buying large volumes of memory-related chips, tightening supply available to everyday device builders and upgraders. Analysts cited by The Register say the situation may take time to unwind, with DRAM pricing not expected to peak until at least 2026, suggesting elevated costs could linger for PC and device buyers.
Highlights:
- Hidden pricing: SlashGear says some retailers are obscuring RAM pricing (for example, requiring extra clicks or gating prices behind availability), making comparison-shopping harder for consumers.
- Brand disruption: SlashGear reports that one major RAM brand has “reportedly shut down entirely,” adding to uncertainty for shoppers trying to stick with familiar suppliers.
- Phones and PCs: A Reddit discussion thread highlights that the same memory constraints can ripple into broader device pricing, including PCs and phones, not just DIY desktop upgrades.
- Real-world example: Boing Boing describes a specific consumer example where a 64GB laptop RAM kit that previously cost about $150 was later shown at much higher prices on Amazon, illustrating the volatility buyers are encountering.
- Longer runway: The Register cites TechInsights analyst James Sanders saying DRAM prices may not peak until at least 2026, implying the cycle could stay painful for more than a single upgrade season.
Perspectives:
- TechInsights (via The Register): DRAM pricing may keep climbing and not peak until at least 2026, implying a longer adjustment period than many buyers expect. (theregister.com)
- Consumer/DIY upgraders (via Boing Boing): Shoppers describe sticker shock from rapid increases on common upgrade kits, especially for higher-capacity RAM aimed at gaming and heavy multitasking. (boingboing.net)
- Retail-focused coverage (via SlashGear): The buying experience itself has become tougher, with claims of price opacity and reduced brand stability making it harder to plan upgrades. (slashgear.com)
Sources:
- Why RAM Prices Are Out Of Control In The US - slashgear.com
- Tired of sky-high memory prices? Buckle up, we're in this for the long haul - theregister.com
- RAM prices go wild as AI companies buy every chip - boingboing.net
- The RAM shortage is here to stay, raising prices on PCs and phones - reddit.com