DDR4 RAM Prices Surge Amid Ongoing DRAM Shortage
The global DRAM shortage is having a significant impact on DDR4 RAM prices, with recent market analyses highlighting a sharp increase in costs for this memory standard. According to a report from Goldman Sachs, DDR4 spot prices have soared to as much as 172% above contract prices, underscoring the heightened demand for DDR4 modules.
Industry data further supports this trend. Ctee reports a 72% year-over-year increase in DRAM exports from South Korea, a key player in the global memory market. Additionally, Nayanke, a major DRAM supplier, has experienced a remarkable 445% surge in annual revenue, largely attributed to the rising prices of DDR4 memory.
These price hikes are not limited to wholesale markets. Consumers are also feeling the effects, with popular DDR4 kits such as the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4-3200 (32 GB) jumping from $71.99 to $262.99 over the past six months. This dramatic increase reflects the broader supply and demand challenges currently facing the memory industry.
Factors Driving the DDR4 Price Increase
Several factors are contributing to the unexpected rise in DDR4 RAM prices. One of the primary reasons is a shift in buyer preference from DDR5 to DDR4. The AI industry's substantial demand for memory has led to a shortage of DDR5 modules, prompting many consumers and businesses to opt for DDR4 as an alternative.
Industry leaders anticipated this shift. Earlier in 2026, ASUS announced plans to ramp up DDR4 motherboard production, citing expectations of continued high DDR5 prices and limited supply. This strategic move reflects the broader market sentiment that DDR4 will remain in high demand as long as DDR5 availability remains constrained.
As the DRAM shortage persists, both consumers and manufacturers are closely monitoring the evolving memory market. The current landscape suggests that DDR4 RAM prices may remain elevated until supply chain pressures ease and DDR5 production can better meet global demand.
