Rising RAM prices present a challenge for consumers aiming to purchase, build, or upgrade computers this year. However, this development might be welcome news for those weary of discussions surrounding AI-enhanced PCs.
According to Ars Technica, the surging demand from data centers, a byproduct of the AI boom, has created a scarce supply of RAM and flash memory chips, resulting in rising prices.
Ben Yeh, principal analyst at technology research firm Omdia, announced today that by 2025, 'mainstream PC memory and storage costs increased by 40 to 70 percent, leading to higher consumer prices.'
Despite these challenges, global PC shipments rose in 2025, with Omdia reporting a 9.2 percent growth compared to 2024, and IDC reporting a 9.6 percent increase. Analysts predict greater volatility in the PC market in 2026.
'The year ahead is shaping up to be extremely volatile,' said Jean Philippe Bouchard, research VP at IDC. To cope with the RAM shortage, PC manufacturers are expected to raise prices and offer computers with reduced memory specifications. IDC predicts a 15 to 20 percent increase in prices, with average PC RAM specifications being lowered to maintain memory inventory.
Bouchard added that Omdia’s Yeh anticipates 'leaner mid-to-low-tier configurations to protect margins.'
Jitesh Ubrani, IDC's research manager for worldwide mobile device trackers, remarked that 'these RAM shortages will persist beyond 2026, impacting the cost-conscious market segment the hardest.'
IDC foresees a focus on midrange and premium systems by vendors as a strategy to counteract elevated component costs, particularly in memory.