Memory Rush: Why AI Is Driving DRAM and NAND Prices Even Higher

If you have been watching hardware prices lately, you may already feel that memory is becoming the next major pressure point. TrendForce now expects contract DRAM prices to climb by 58 to 63 percent in the second quarter, while NAND could jump by 70 to 75 percent. DRAM is still rising more slowly than it did in the first quarter, but the market remains extremely tense.

The reason is clear. Memory makers see bigger profits in AI infrastructure, so they give priority to server products instead of consumer devices. Cloud giants keep buying large volumes of RDIMM modules and enterprise SSDs, often through long term agreements that secure supply before others even enter the queue.

Why PC and SSD Buyers May Feel the Pain

This shift creates a real squeeze for PC makers and module producers. Even though demand for PC DRAM has weakened, suppliers have reduced shipments at the same time. That forces smaller buyers to accept higher prices from distributors and module vendors.

NAND is following the same path, and in this cycle it is moving even faster than DRAM. Enterprise SSD demand remains strong, while desktop SSD supply stays tight. Manufacturers also continue to limit output for lower margin categories. As a result, you may soon see more expensive storage, fewer discounts, and leaner memory configurations in laptops and smartphones.

Our Take on What Comes Next

In our view, this is not a short spike. If new production capacity does not arrive at scale until late 2027 or even 2028, you should expect pressure across the whole PC market. And memory is not the only concern. A possible CPU shortage could make the situation even harder for consumers and brands alike.

For us, this means one thing. Buying decisions may soon require better timing, stricter budgeting, and more attention to component value.

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