DDR5 Memory Prices Spike to $375 for 32GB Kits Amid AI-Driven Shortage

Tom's Hardware reports that DDR5 memory prices have surged dramatically, with a 32GB DIMM kit now costing at least $375—more than double typical prices from a year ago. The primary driver is the AI boom: hyperscalers and AI startups are buying up vast quantities of high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and DDR5 for training and inference servers, reducing supply for the consumer PC market. Additionally, memory manufacturers have shifted production capacity to meet demand for higher-profit server-grade modules. This shortage is impacting PC builders and gamers, who are facing delays and inflated costs for new builds. The trend is expected to persist as long as AI hardware demand remains elevated, with potential knock-on effects for future CPU and platform launches that rely on DDR5.