Are 8TB SSDs really worth more than gold as of January 2026?

Yes, based on recent pricing, high-end 8TB SSDs are now valued higher than an equivalent weight of gold.

Why are SSD prices increasing so much in early 2026?

SSD prices are rising due to a memory crisis, similar to the trend seen with RAM prices.

Should I buy an SSD now or wait for prices to drop?

Given the current upward trend and predictions, purchasing an SSD sooner rather than later is advisable.

Home / Technology / Storage Crisis: 8TB SSDs Now Worth More Than Gold

Storage Crisis: 8TB SSDs Now Worth More Than Gold

17 Jan

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Summary

High-end 8TB SSDs now cost more per gram than 24k gold.
Average price for 8TB SSDs reaches $1,476 as of early 2026.
Recent price hikes in SSDs follow a similar trend seen in RAM.

Storage Crisis: 8TB SSDs Now Worth More Than Gold

High-capacity Solid State Drives (SSDs) are now surpassing the value of gold by weight, particularly for 8TB models. Analysis shows that these advanced NVMe drives, excluding those with heatsinks, average $1,476, exceeding the cost of an equivalent weight of gold. This dramatic price increase is attributed to a persistent memory crisis affecting storage components.

The trend highlights a significant market shift, with some 4TB SSDs also seeing their prices creep above gold's value. The recent sharp uptick in pricing, particularly in January 2026, mirrors the earlier inflation experienced in the RAM market. Experts predict further price increases for SSDs, suggesting a steeper climb ahead.

Consumers in need of SSD upgrades or new PC builds are urged to consider purchasing soon. Prices for popular models like the Samsung 9100 Pro and WD Black SN8100 have already seen substantial jumps since late 2025. The current market conditions indicate that storage prices are likely to worsen before they stabilize.