GoKawiilDRAM prices spike up to 95% as AI data centers absorb memory supply
RAM temporarily stores data a processor needs quick access to, using capacitors that lose their charge once power is cut, unlike ROM which retains data permanently. TrendForce reports that DRAM contract prices jumped 90 to 95 percent quarter-over-quarter in early 2025, driven largely by AI data center buildouts such as NVIDIA's proposed $100 billion investment with OpenAI for 10 gigawatts of capacity. Micron also shut down its consumer-focused Crucial brand in February to prioritize higher-margin AI data center business.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The surge suggests consumer hardware prices could climb as manufacturers redirect memory chip supply toward lucrative AI infrastructure contracts rather than everyday devices like phones and laptops. This pattern echoes a 2017 memory shortage that reportedly led Huawei to mix faster and slower flash chips in the same phone model, indicating that supply crunches can also degrade product quality, not just raise costs. If AI demand continues outpacing memory production, consumers could face both higher prices and reduced access to components for PCs, phones, and gaming hardware.
- DRAM contract prices rose 90-95% quarter-over-quarter in early 2025 per TrendForce
- AI data center demand, including a proposed $100B NVIDIA-OpenAI deal, is absorbing most memory supply
- Micron ended its Crucial consumer memory brand in February to focus on AI-driven demand
Crucial 32GB DDR5 Desktop RAM Kit — If you're building or upgrading a PC, grabbing a RAM kit now could save you from the price spikes described in the article as AI demand squeezes supply. Crucial's DDR5 kits are a reliable, widely compatible choice for boosting multitasking and gaming performance. Upgrading your RAM is one of the most direct ways to speed up everyday computing.
See Crucial 32GB DDR5 Desktop RAM Kit on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Luke James, 2026-10-10
Published there as: “What's the difference between RAM and ROM memory?”
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