RAM Shortage 2026: Memory Prices Surge 90% as AI Data Centers Consume 70% of Supply
What happened # Memory prices have surged approximately 90% in Q1 2026 compared to Q4 2025, according to Counterpoint Technology Market Research. TrendForce expects DRAM contract prices to climb 90-95% in Q1 2026, with NAND flash up 55-60% in the same period. The shortage stems from the three largest RAM manufacturers—Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and Micron Technology, who control 93% of the market—prioritizing high-bandwidth memory production for AI data centers.