Why is Micron winding down Crucial?

Micron is shifting its focus from consumer products like Crucial to prioritize high-demand components for the AI industry.

How is the AI boom affecting GPU prices?

The AI boom is increasing demand for VRAM and other memory components, leading to potential price hikes and supply changes for GPUs.

When should I buy a new graphics card?

It is advisable to buy a new graphics card sooner rather than later, as prices are expected to increase due to AI-driven component demand.

Home / Technology / AI Boom Triples RAM Prices, GPUs Next?

AI Boom Triples RAM Prices, GPUs Next?

9 Dec

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Summary

AI demand drives consumer RAM prices up significantly.
Consumer SSD prices increased 20-60% in November.
New GPUs may see price hikes due to memory costs.

The burgeoning AI industry is dramatically reshaping the consumer tech market, leading to significant price increases for essential components. Manufacturers are prioritizing high-margin AI infrastructure, causing a shortage and subsequent price hike for consumer-grade RAM and SSDs. Some DDR5 RAM kits have reportedly tripled in price, while SSD prices increased by up to 60% in November.

This memory crunch is now expected to affect the pricing of graphics cards (GPUs). Reports indicate potential MSRP increases for AMD GPUs, and NVIDIA is rumored to be altering its VRAM supply to board partners. This situation, coupled with a lack of new GPU releases until mid-2026 or later, suggests a shrinking window for consumers to acquire new GPUs at current prices.

For those considering a GPU upgrade, purchasing sooner is advisable. Recommendations include GPUs with at least 12GB of VRAM, with 16GB preferred. Budget-friendly options like the Intel Arc B580 and mid-range choices such as the RTX 5060 Ti and Radeon RX 9070 are highlighted, emphasizing the importance of securing a purchase before prices inevitably rise further.