PC Builders Urge Customers to 'Bring Your Own RAM' Amidst Skyrocketing Prices

Daily Technology

·

24/12/2025

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The price of computer memory has climbed so steeply that builders now ask buyers to send in their own RAM sticks. Under the new “bring-your-own-RAM” plan, the factory ships the PC with empty slots and trusts the customer to plug in modules bought elsewhere. The AI boom and tight supply have pushed pre loaded machines out of reach for many shoppers.

Key Points

Builders launch BYO-RAM plans because memory prices have tripled.
AI servers grab every chip they can get leaving few for home PCs.
Buyers must hunt for sticks on the second hand market or reuse old hardware.

Why RAM Costs So Much

AI data centres now buy memory by the truckload - makers like Samsung besides SK Hynix reserve most of their wafers for server grade DDR5 - the speeds and sizes gamers want rarely reach shop shelves. When a batch arrives, it sells out within hours - builders grab it on sight.

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How BYO-RAM Works

Maingear will assemble a motherboard, CPU, power supply, case and cooler then wait for the buyer to mail in sticks. Staff test the modules in New Jersey before the unit ships. The finished tower costs less but the buyer still faces street prices - a 32 GB gaming kit from G.Skill now sells for more than $500, up from under $200 last autumn. eBay scalpers list the same kit at five times the list price. Paradox Customs offers a similar choice - order the box bare and find RAM on your own.

What This Means for Pre-Built PCs

Small builders once thrived on steady parts lists and turnkey support. If buyers must chase memory, the seller loses control over speed grades, heatsink height or RGB matching. The buyer must read the qualified vendor list, update the BIOS and handle returns alone. Micron next to SK Hynix warn that tight supply will run through 2026; prices should soften only in 2027-28. Anyone with a working PC today has little reason to upgrade until that tide turns.

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