The global ram shortage is now affecting hardware pricing, product availability, and long-term planning across the technology sector. Fueled largely by unprecedented demand for AI infrastructure, the current supply imbalance not expected to let up anytime soon, with Micron stating they’re expecting it to last until 2028.
For IT leaders, understanding these market dynamics is essential to managing budgets, timelines, and operational stability as technology procurement strategies may shift.
Why is the Ram Shortage Happening?
Several forces have converged to create sustained pressure on global memory supply, driving the cost of ram higher.
AI Is Absorbing Memory Production Capacity
AI infrastructure providers are consuming a significant portion of worldwide DRAM and NAND output. Large-scale AI training and inference environments require massive amounts of high-performance memory, which reduces the volume available for traditional commercial hardware.
Manufacturers Are Prioritizing Higher-Margin Products
Memory manufacturers are allocating more production toward premium AI-focused memory components. This shift limits supply for mainstream PC, laptop, and server configurations, contributing to the ongoing ram shortage.
Limited Manufacturing Flexibility
Prior production cuts and capacity adjustments left the industry with minimal buffer. As demand accelerated, manufacturers had limited ability to quickly expand output, placing sustained upward pressure on ram prices.
The Impact the Ram Shortage Has on the Market
The downstream effects are already visible across the hardware ecosystem.
Rising Ram Prices
Since late 2025, DRAM and NAND pricing has climbed between 50-100% or more, with market analysists at Counterpoint Research reporting a 600% YoY price increase on mid-to-low-end models. The cost of ram is fluctuating more frequently, making accurate forecasting increasingly difficult for finance and technology procurement teams.
Continued Supply Constraints
Industry expectations suggest that constrained supply conditions could persist for another 24 months. Organizations planning infrastructure investments should assume that the ram shortage will remain a factor throughout upcoming budget cycles.
Increased Hardware Costs
Laptops, desktops, servers, and storage systems are all affected by the ram shortage. Even when base system pricing appears steady, elevated ram prices are contributing to overall increases in total hardware costs.
What The Ram Shortage Means for Technology Procurement
These conditions require a more proactive and disciplined approach to technology procurement. Traditional purchasing timelines and assumptions may no longer hold.
Greater Pricing Volatility
Quotes that were once stable for extended periods may now shift rapidly. Procurement teams must monitor ram prices more closely and align purchasing decisions with market conditions.
Unpredictable Lead Times
Lead times for laptops, servers, and storage equipment are becoming harder to predict. Memory allocation decisions by manufacturers can directly influence shipment schedules.
Need for Alternate Configurations
Preferred models or specific memory configurations may not always be available. Teams should prepare to evaluate approved alternatives to avoid project delays.
Longer Procurement Cycles
The procurement process may require additional time for approvals, vendor coordination, and pricing validation. Beginning planning cycles earlier can help mitigate disruption.
Strengthening Your IT Procurement Strategy During the Ram Shortage
Organizations can reduce risk by adjusting their IT procurement strategy to reflect current market realities.
- Forecast hardware needs 12 to 24 months in advance whenever possible.
- Engage suppliers early to understand allocation trends and anticipated pricing shifts.
- Explore opportunities to secure pricing when market conditions are favorable.
- Diversify vendor relationships to increase flexibility.
- Reassess device lifecycle policies in light of the rising cost of ram.
- Integrate technology procurement planning into broader financial and operational strategy discussions.
All Covered can act as a trusted partner in technology procurement through the ram shortage. We support the full lifecycle of technology acquisition, from evaluating business needs and sourcing the right hardware and software to managing installation, licensing, vendor communications, and ongoing support. Our longstanding vendor relationships and tailored solutions help to reduce costs while aligning with business goals.
To speak to an expert, request a free consultation here.
Final Thoughts
The ongoing ram shortage is reshaping hardware economics across the industry. Elevated ram prices and a sustained increase in the cost of ram are influencing purchasing decisions at every level.
Organizations that adapt their technology procurement approach and refine their procurement process will be better positioned to manage volatility, control spending, and maintain continuity. Strategic planning, early engagement, and flexibility will be critical as the market continues to evolve through 2026 and beyond.
