Framework Announces Another Memory Price Hike

Framework, a modular PC company, has announced another price increase for its DDR5 RAM modules due to rising memory costs. The new pricing is set at $10 per GB for 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB modules, with higher prices for 48GB and above. This adjustment follows a previous hike earlier in the month, with the 8GB module now at $80, the 16GB at $160, and the 32GB at $320. The 48GB module has seen a significant increase from $240 to $620, while the 64GB and 96GB modules are priced at $640 and $1,240, respectively. These changes impact the configurable memory options for Framework’s DIY Edition laptop, as the company is not selling standalone DDR5 RAM modules to maintain inventory. Framework suggests users can order laptops without memory to use existing modules or find cheaper options via PCPartPicker. With suppliers indicating further price increases into early 2026, Framework warns of potential future hikes but assures that prices will be adjusted based on costs. The ongoing global memory shortage, expected to last until 2027, is driven by memory manufacturers like Micron, Samsung, and SK Hynix focusing on the AI industry. This matters because it highlights the impact of global supply chain issues on consumer electronics pricing and availability.

The recent announcement from Framework about the increase in DDR5 RAM prices is a reflection of a broader trend affecting the tech industry. As the cost of memory continues to rise due to supply chain disruptions and increased demand, companies like Framework are forced to adjust their pricing strategies. This price hike is particularly significant for consumers who are interested in building or upgrading their own PCs, as memory is a crucial component that can significantly impact performance. The increase in cost for DDR5 RAM modules, especially for higher capacities, underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the tech industry in managing supply and demand dynamics.

Framework’s decision to increase prices while offering alternatives, such as purchasing their DIY Edition laptop without memory, highlights the company’s efforts to provide flexibility to consumers. By allowing users to source their own RAM modules, Framework is giving them the opportunity to find potentially cheaper options elsewhere, which can be crucial in managing costs during this period of price volatility. This approach not only helps consumers save money but also demonstrates Framework’s commitment to maintaining customer satisfaction despite the challenging market conditions.

The ongoing global memory shortage, as projected by the International Data Corporation, is expected to persist well into 2027. This is driven by memory manufacturers reallocating resources towards the AI industry, which is currently experiencing a boom. As companies like Micron, Samsung, and SK Hynix focus on meeting the demands of AI applications, the availability of memory for consumer electronics and personal computing is affected, leading to higher prices. This shift in resource allocation is crucial for the tech industry’s future, as AI continues to revolutionize various sectors, but it also poses challenges for consumers and businesses reliant on affordable memory solutions.

Understanding the implications of these price hikes is important for consumers and businesses alike. For consumers, it means budgeting more carefully for PC builds or upgrades and exploring alternative sources for components. For businesses, particularly those in the tech industry, it highlights the need for strategic planning and adaptation to supply chain fluctuations. As the situation evolves, staying informed about market trends and potential future adjustments will be key to navigating the challenges posed by the global memory shortage. Ultimately, while the current landscape presents difficulties, it also offers opportunities for innovation and adaptation in response to the shifting demands of the tech industry.

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