Why RAM Prices Are Rising in 2025 — And What It Means for PC Builders

If you’ve been shopping for new RAM lately, you’ve probably noticed something frustrating: prices are climbing fast. Whether you’re building a new gaming PC or upgrading an older system, memory is suddenly one of the most expensive parts of the build.

So what’s going on?

Let’s break down why RAM prices are rising, what’s driving the changes behind the scenes, and whether you should buy now or wait.

1. AI Demand Is Consuming the World’s Memory Supply

The biggest pressure on the RAM market right now comes from the explosive growth of AI, machine learning, and data centres. These industries use huge amounts of high-end memory like HBM and server-grade DRAM — and manufacturers prioritise those because they’re more profitable.

That leaves less production capacity for consumer RAM, like DDR4 and DDR5. When supply tightens but demand stays the same, prices rise. It’s that simple.

2. DDR4 Production Is Being Cut Back

Many memory manufacturers are now shifting production away from DDR4 to focus on DDR5 and specialised AI-grade memory. That means fewer DDR4 modules are being made, while millions of PCs still rely on them.

Less supply + steady demand = higher prices — and DDR4 is likely to keep climbing before stabilising.

3. Fabrication (Fab) Limitations Are Slowing Supply Growth

You can’t just click a button and produce more RAM. Increasing production requires:

• New manufacturing lines

• More wafers

• More testing equipment

• Months or years of setup time

Memory fabs are already stretched thin, and capacity isn’t scaling quickly enough to meet demand from AI, servers, and consumers all at once.

Result? Prices go up.

4. DDR5 Is Still Expensive to Produce

DDR5 is improving, but it’s more complex and costly to manufacture than DDR4. It requires new controllers, more advanced testing, and newer production technology — all of which add cost.

This keeps DDR5 prices higher than many people expected, despite it becoming the new standard.

5. Supply Chain & Geopolitical Tensions

Semiconductor supply chains remain sensitive to:

• Export bans

• Trade restrictions

• Shipping delays

• Regional manufacturing issues

All of these introduce risk and cost into memory production and distribution.

Even small disruptions can send prices upward.

So… Should You Buy RAM Now or Wait?

Here’s the practical advice:

✔ If you're upgrading soon:

Buy now — prices may climb further before they settle.

✔ If you're building a brand-new PC:

Consider how much RAM you truly need. With prices high, it can make sense to start with a smaller kit and upgrade later (as long as you plan your motherboard slots wisely).

✔ If you’re using DDR4:

Expect prices to continue rising for a while. DDR4 is becoming more “legacy,” which usually means limited supply and higher cost.

✔ If you’re comfortable with used hardware:

Second-hand RAM can be a cost-effective option — as long as you trust the seller.

Final Thoughts

The rising price of RAM isn't just bad luck — it’s the result of big industry shifts, from AI growth to manufacturing changes and global economic pressures.

At CyberNest PCs, we’re staying ahead of these trends so we can help you build or upgrade your system in the most cost-effective way possible — without sacrificing performance.

If you ever want advice on whether now’s the right time to upgrade your system, just reach out. We’re here to help.