The cost of high-performance computer memory, driven by insatiable demand from artificial intelligence infrastructure, now surpasses the price of leading gaming consoles in the United States, creating an unexpected hurdle for PC builders.
Kits of 64 gigabytes of DDR5 memory, an essential component for modern personal computers, are now retailing for over $600. This price point significantly exceeds that of a new PlayStation 5 console, which sells for approximately $399 for the digital edition or $449 with a disc drive.
The dramatic price increase marks a departure from previous years, when a comparable 64 GB DDR5 kit typically cost between $200 and $250. The current disparity highlights a growing “silent crisis” within the memory supply chain, according to a report published Monday by Tom’s Hardware.
Explosive demand for memory in AI servers and data centers is the primary factor draining the global supply of DRAM and DDR5 modules. Manufacturers are prioritizing high-volume contracts with large infrastructure companies, leaving the consumer market more vulnerable to shortages.
Compounding the issue, global scarcity and rising costs of raw materials are further elevating production expenses. These increased costs are being passed directly to retail consumers.
For PC enthusiasts and users looking to build or upgrade gaming or productivity computers, this price surge means a substantial hike in their overall budget. Random Access Memory (RAM), traditionally a more affordable component, has become a significant cost bottleneck.
Analysts warn that prices are unlikely to decline in the near future. Some projections indicate potential additional increases of 30-50% per quarter for certain memory modules through mid-2026.
Current indicators suggest the market is at a peak phase of memory inflation. Consumers considering PC upgrades are advised to carefully evaluate the immediate cost versus waiting for a more favorable market.