In recent months, the technology market has been increasingly focused on changes in RAM and SSD prices. RAM, or random access memory, is the computer’s temporary “workspace,” which determines how smoothly programs run. SSD, or solid-state drive, affects how quickly the computer boots up, programs open, and files are saved.
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According to Audrius Valantinas, Head of Peripherals and PC Components at ACC Distribution, these changes should be viewed not as isolated price increases but as part of a broader technology market cycle.
“Memory component prices usually move in waves, but this time the changes are strongly influenced by the growth of AI infrastructure. When some production capacity is redirected to more advanced solutions, the supply of more common components becomes more sensitive. Therefore, buyers should consider not only the price but also delivery times, availability, and the planned device usage period,” says A. Valantinas.
Why are memory components becoming more expensive?
The biggest changes are currently seen in the DRAM and NAND Flash memory markets. DRAM, or dynamic random access memory, is used in RAM modules for computers, servers, and workstations. NAND Flash is non-volatile memory used in SSDs, smartphones, and other devices.
“The demand for these components is driven by several processes simultaneously. AI systems require powerful servers and large data centers that use huge amounts of memory. At the same time, companies are replacing older computers with newer ones adapted to modern operating systems, security requirements, and higher performance,” explains A. Valantinas.
He adds that the market is also influenced by manufacturers’ investments in HBM, or high bandwidth memory. HBM is used in AI servers that need to process large amounts of data very quickly. The production of this technology is closely linked to DDR5, the new generation of RAM, so price changes are currently most noticeable in DDR5 solutions.
Geopolitical factors, trade restrictions, and supply chain issues also affect the market. Although logistics today are more stable than during the pandemic, component availability still depends on global production and trade decisions.
Why are price increases not immediately visible?
Component price is only one part of the final product’s cost, so changes are not always immediately visible in stores. Manufacturers and distributors absorb some of the pressure through long-term supply contracts, advance orders, inventory management, and alternative supply channels.
“As a result, price changes in the consumer market usually appear gradually. However, if memory component prices remain higher for a longer period, their impact eventually reflects in final products – laptops, SSDs, workstations, or servers,” notes A. Valantinas.
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Businesses in Lithuania will feel changes sooner
Lithuania is part of the European technology market, so global trends sooner or later reach local distributors, retailers, and buyers. Businesses and the public sector usually feel changes first because they purchase larger quantities of equipment and plan purchases in advance.
According to Elvinas Stipinas, Head of Business Products at ACC Distribution, the public sector is more sensitive due to public procurement procedures. These take time, and budgets are often approved before market changes. If equipment prices rise during that time, the planned amount may no longer meet actual needs.
“An institution may have planned a specific number of computers or servers, but with price changes, they end up buying less equipment for the same amount. In some cases, quantities may decrease by 30–50%, leading to longer delivery times or the need to reissue tenders. This affects not only the budget but also project deadlines and the organization’s technological readiness,” notes E. Stipinas.
Why can a low initial price be misleading?
According to E. Stipinas, one of the most common mistakes is choosing minimal configurations just because of a lower initial price. This decision may seem rational on the purchase day, but after a few years, insufficient RAM, limited data storage, or shorter software support become reasons why the device becomes obsolete faster than it physically wears out.
“Programs, operating systems, and AI functions become more demanding every year, so a configuration that is sufficient today may become a limiting factor in the future. When choosing equipment, it is worth considering not only the purchase price but also the entire usage period, possible residual value, and future upgrade needs. Quality components, sufficient performance margin, and longer software support often allow devices to be used longer and retain higher value on the secondary market,” notes E. Stipinas.
He says the current situation is not a reason to stop purchases or wait for indefinite price stabilization. Rather, it shows that technology upgrades should be planned earlier, especially for business computers, servers, or larger public sector projects.
“In the technology market, those who plan ahead win. The growing demand for memory components indicates not only price pressure but also a broader shift – moving towards more powerful, data- and AI-based solutions. Therefore, the most important thing is not to fear changes but to make decisions that will be sustainable for more than one purchase cycle,” concludes E. Stipinas.
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