Home / Technology / RAM crisis prices out PC gamers
RAM crisis prices out PC gamers
7 Mar
Summary
- DRAM and NAND flash prices are skyrocketing.
- Nvidia CEO calls current supply scarcity 'fantastic'.
- Entry-level gaming PCs may cost $2,000 by 2028.
The ongoing RAM crisis is making budget PC gaming increasingly inaccessible. Surging memory costs are predicted to lead to fewer PC shipments globally through 2026, impacting not only system RAM but also GPU VRAM and NVMe drives.
Manufacturers are already reducing VRAM in GPUs to manage costs, but even these compromised components are expected to become much more expensive. Nvidia's CEO has described the current supply scarcity as 'fantastic' for the company, suggesting a business model that may prioritize high-margin AI and enterprise markets over consumers.
This trend points towards a future where entry-level gaming PCs could cost upwards of $2,000 by 2028. The demand for specialized components driven by the AI boom is expected to widen the gap between low-end and high-end gaming PCs, potentially eliminating budget options entirely.
For many, future gaming choices may shift to consoles like the PS6 or Xbox Project Helix, or cloud gaming services. While building a PC has been a hallmark of the hobby, the rising costs are transforming PC gaming from a mainstream pursuit into a luxury one.
