2026 RAM Shortage Solutions: Survive the Memory Crisis | Insight

Projected QoQ price increases in Q3 2026

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DRAM contract

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NAND Flash

What should I know about RAMageddon: The 2026 RAM crisis?

What's happening?

Why is there a RAM shortage?

The 2026 RAM shortage — or “RAMageddon” — is largely driven by AI data centers consuming massive amounts of highbandwidth memory. To keep up, manufacturers are prioritizing pricier AI chips and scaling back production of standard DRAM and SSDs. Due to the limited capacity, end-user devices like laptops and smartphones are estimated to get more expensive in 2026.

How much have DRAM prices gone up?

DRAM prices surged sharply in 2026. According to TrendForce, global DRAM contract prices rose an estimated 90–95% quarter‑over‑quarter in Q1 2026, followed by a projected 58–63% QoQ increase in Q2 2026. Now, prices are projected to increase 10–15% QoQ in Q3.

Are SSD prices going up?

Yes. SSD prices were expected to rise sharply in early 2026, with forecasts pointing to roughly 53–58% quarter‑over‑quarter increases in Q1. Tighter NAND supply, stronger server and AI demand, and supplier efforts to control output are pushing prices higher, leading buyers to expect further increases.

Will PC prices go up in 2026?

Yes. Industry analysts and major OEMs are already signaling significant PC RAM price increase pressure in 2026. Lenovo, Dell, HP, Acer, and ASUS have warned 15–20% PC price increases for 2026 due to DRAM and NAND shortages. Some reports note it could climb up to 30% as component shortages worsen.

What can I do about it?

What factors should I consider as RAM and storage costs rise?

Rising memory prices, OEM spec reductions, and stronger lifecycle needs are the key factors. Prices are climbing as suppliers prioritize AI/server memory, OEMs may lower RAM and storage to keep devices affordable, and extending device life helps you avoid buying during peak pricing.

Dive deeper into key factors with this infographic›

Should I buy IT hardware now or wait for memory prices to drop?

Buy strategically now. DRAM and SSD/NAND prices are already rising, and OEMs expect additional increases through 2026. With supply tightening as manufacturers prioritize AI hardware, prices are unlikely to drop soon. Purchasing earlier with flexible timing can help you avoid peak pricing.

What should I do with our current devices to increase lifespan?

Increase device lifespan by using a performance‑based refresh model. Fix issues early, extend devices that still meet performance standards, and only replace units that truly can’t keep up. This reduces forced purchases during high‑price cycles.

How can we refresh devices less often?

Refresh less often by adopting lifecycle services: Extend stable devices, use repair and maintenance to delay replacements, and stay flexible across OEMs when certain configurations spike in cost. This data‑driven model lets you avoid a strict calendar‑based refresh.

Solutions for the supply & price challenges

Extend device life.

Keep devices in service while costs climb. Insight's DaaS program uses DEX data to make performance‑based decisions so you refresh only when necessary.

Buy now. Deploy later.

Secure today’s hardware pricing before costs rise. Request a quote to compare current prices, and we’ll stage and store your devices until you’re ready to deploy.

Estimate your savings.

See what extending device life could mean for your budget. Use the ROI Calculator to quickly estimate savings from improved lifecycle efficiency with Insight.