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AI-Driven Memory Crunch Forces AMD GPU Price Hike as Stores Drop Fixed RAM Tags

AI data centers are pulling capacity from consumer DRAM, pushing prices higher into 2026.

Overview

  • AMD has told board partners it will raise graphics card prices by at least 10% in early 2026 due to higher memory costs, according to UDN and analyst Dan Nystedt.
  • DDR5 kits have jumped to record levels, with a 64GB set now around $600 after roughly a 190% surge since September, Tom’s Hardware reports.
  • U.S. retailers including Micro Center and Central Computers are dropping fixed in-store RAM prices in favor of market rates as tags become outdated by the day.
  • Leaker Moore’s Law Is Dead claims Microsoft has warned partners of potential Xbox price increases or tighter supply, while Sony is said to have stockpiled RAM; neither company has confirmed changes.
  • Suppliers are prioritizing lucrative AI orders and HBM/server DRAM, and industry voices warn shortages and elevated pricing could extend through 2026.