Overview
- Maingear introduced a bring-your-own RAM option that lets buyers provide a compatible DDR5 kit or ship a separately purchased kit for installation in its prebuilt desktops, with the program available immediately.
- Every system using customer-supplied memory goes through Maingear’s standard validation process, and any RAM not used in the build is returned to the customer.
- The company told reporters that BYO RAM systems will be priced lower than equivalent configurations that include memory, though total costs can vary with component markets.
- CEO Wallace Santos said Maingear’s costs have jumped roughly 394% for 32GB kits and 344% for 64GB, describing an unprecedented, multi-year squeeze on supply.
- Maingear cites AI infrastructure demand, tighter manufacturer allocation, and scarce DDR5 inventory driving price spikes and reseller markups, as other builders like Paradox Customs add no-RAM options and major memory makers forecast constraints through 2026 with relief expected closer to 2027–2028.