Why Is the RAM Crisis Continuing and What Does It Mean?
The ongoing shortage in RAM supply is forecasted to persist well into the end of this decade, making it a significant challenge for anyone looking to build, upgrade, or buy PCs. This prolonged scarcity pushes up the cost of system memory, impacting a wide range of computing devices from desktop components to laptops. For users, this means that memory prices—and by extension, the prices of PCs and gaming systems—are rising and expected to remain inflated for years. Understanding this context is crucial to planning your technology purchases.
Which PC Components Are Most Affected and Why You Should Act Now?
Graphics Cards
High-end GPUs are experiencing notable price hikes due to increasing VRAM costs and supply constraints. Rumors around flagship models like Nvidia's RTX 5090 facing discontinuation and related shortages suggest prices could spike further in 2027. If you’re considering an upgrade, Black Friday might offer some of the best chances for deals on mid-range to lower-end GPUs, such as Nvidia RTX 5070 or AMD RX 9070 XT models. Acting now could save you from higher prices later.
Gaming Laptops
Gaming laptops, which rely on discrete GPUs, are also vulnerable to these price pressures. With both GPU and RAM shortages contributing to cost increases, serious gamers should watch Black Friday sales carefully for worthwhile discounts. Since these devices offer more scope for promotional price cuts, buying during this period could prevent paying elevated prices in the near future.
Everyday Laptops
Even outside gaming, everyday laptops are affected by memory shortages. Retailers are reportedly holding excess stock this year due to declining PC sales, which may lead to attractive Black Friday promotions. If a new laptop is on your wishlist within the next couple of years, this sale season presents a sensible opportunity to secure better pricing before inevitable price rises.
What About Other PC Components Like RAM Modules, SSDs, and CPUs?
The price situation for standalone RAM sticks and SSDs is challenging—with memory prices especially high compared to past years. Even with Black Friday discounts, these components might still feel costly relative to previous benchmarks. This makes buying these individual parts only advisable if you urgently need them. On the brighter side, CPUs have not experienced the same degree of price inflation, and decent deals might appear during the sale, though there is less urgency to buy immediately.
Key Takeaway: How to Approach Your Black Friday Shopping Amidst the Memory Shortage
The memory shortage and its repercussions on PC component pricing make Black Friday 2026 a critical event for tech buyers. Prioritize purchasing GPUs and gaming laptops if you aim to upgrade within the next year or two, as prices in these categories are poised to rise further. For everyday laptops, Black Friday offers a valuable window to buy before costs increase due to dwindling stock and supply constraints. However, be cautious with standalone RAM and SSD deals, weighing the cost against your immediacy of need. Overall, planning ahead and being selective about your purchases this Black Friday can help mitigate the impact of this prolonged RAM crisis.