PC DRAM supply shortage predicted for 2027

A shortage of PC DRAM is expected to drive up costs for consumers by 2027. According to market research firm TrendForce, the supply of PC memory is projected to decrease as major manufacturers shift production capacity toward artificial intelligence technologies.

Leading memory producers, including Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron, are prioritizing High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) for data centers and AI accelerators due to higher profit margins. The production of HBM requires significantly more space on silicon wafers compared to standard DDR memory, which reduces the available capacity for the RAM used in standard PCs and laptops.

While large manufacturers like Dell and HP have secured supplies through long-term contracts, individual PC builders and consumers are expected to face higher prices. Relief for the market is not anticipated until new fabrication plants and expansions become operational around 2029.