Samsung Electronics has raised contract prices for key memory chips by up to 60 percent since September, according to industry reports. The world’s largest DRAM maker is capitalizing on an AI-driven supply crunch that’s straining inventories across data centers and server manufacturers.

What’s driving the spikeA massive build-out of AI data centers has soaked up global DRAM supply, especially high-performance DDR5 modules. Contract prices for 32 GB DDR5 kits jumped from roughly $149 in September to about $239 in November — the sharpest rise in years.Samsung’s move comes as rival producers SK Hynix and Micron also face capacity constraints. Analysts warn that elevated prices may persist well into 2026.

Impact on buyers and resellersFor PC builders and IT resellers, the effects are already visible. DDR5 and even older DDR4 modules have seen price hikes of 30–50 percent in retail markets. Used-memory prices, once a safe haven for budget buyers, are also tightening as resellers hold inventory longer to hedge against further increases.

Looking aheadIf current trends continue, memory costs could remain elevated through at least mid-2026. That makes timing crucial for buyers. Locking in supply early may offer protection against another wave of price increases. Hence, it is the best time for your business to sell used RAM now.

 

Last edited by jeffufl (11/17/2025 11:13 am)