RAM prices are already high, and things are about to get worse. That's assuming a recent rumor regarding Samsung DDR5 modules proves accurate.
Leaker Jukan shared on X that Samsung has raised the contract price of DDR5 to $19.50. That price relates to 16GB DDR5 modules with the cost being measured per 2GB memory chip. The rumored new cost is more than double what it was previously.
Jukan's figure comes courtesy of Taiwanese outlet Technowvoice.
The report covers the cost of RAM in the supply chain. While it's reasonable to expect the cost of DDR5 RAM doubling on the manufacturing side of things would affect consumer pricing, we may not see a directly proportional increase.
There are a variety of factors that determine pricing in the industry, but it's safe to assume that if the rumor proves accurate, consumer prices will go up.
Taiwanese media: DRAM price surge shows no signs of stoppingAccording to reports from Taiwanese media, Samsung has abruptly raised the DDR5 contract price to $19.50, bringing it close to $20.This figure represents an increase of more than 100% compared to the previous…December 15, 2025
Samsung said there is "no stock" to customers, according to Technowvoice.
Samsung is one of the three major manufacturers of RAM, alongside SK Hynix and Micron. Those three companies make up over 90% of memory market share.
RAM is used in laptops, phones, TVs, and a variety of other devices. For years, the market has been relatively stable. But AI changed everything.
Now, billions of dollars are being invested into AI datacenters, skewing demand for memory modules. With how much money companies are tossing at AI, Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron can guarantee sales and make money without having to rely on sales to consumers.
RAM has skyrocketed in price, with some modules increasing from a couple hundred dollars to well over $1,000. Stock shortages and panic buying are exacerbating the situation, as did Micron pulling out of the consumer market.
Some PC manufacturers have already increased prices due to rising cost of RAM. Dell will reportedly up PC prices by up to 30%. Smaller companies have made changes as well, such as Framework increasing the price of select laptop models.
Needless to say, the cost of PC building has gone up. We have some tips on how to work around RAM price hikes, but the best option may be to wait to see if prices normalize. Of course, that's not a viable choice for people currently in need of a PC.
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