Samsung & SK Hynix Release ‘Absurd’ Q2 Memory Prices: Should Buyers Consider Alternatives?

Dramatic Surge in DRAM Prices Since Q4 2025: Market Trends

The landscape of DRAM (Dynamic Random-Access Memory) pricing has experienced a seismic shift, particularly evident in its transition to a ‘seller-dominated’ market. As a result, large-scale customers now see contract prices updated on a quarterly basis, creating a stark contrast for smaller buyers. For these smaller entities, fluctuations in pricing can occur within days, making it increasingly challenging to secure necessary supplies. According to a recent report from Sedaily, substantial price hikes are anticipated for the upcoming quarter, with projections indicating a staggering 130% increase in overall prices for the first half of this year (Q1-Q2).

With the two companies’ supply capacity falling short of the surging DRAM demand driven by global investment in artificial intelligence (AI), some are predicting that the overall price increase this year could reach 130%.

– Seats

The report highlights that larger customers are generally more amenable to accepting these price escalations, as they often operate under long-term agreements (LTAs) that automatically reflect updated contract prices at the end of each cycle. In stark contrast, small to medium-sized enterprises, heavily reliant on memory supplies, now confront significant challenges due to the soaring prices.

Two Hynix 2GB 1Rx8 PC4N-19000S memory modules placed on a silicon wafer surface. — Image Credits: SK hynix

As observed, DRAM prices have skyrocketed by over threefold since October 2025. This surge is primarily attributed to a combination of accelerated hyperscaler infrastructure development and a tightening memory supply chain, which became evident to buyers at that time. The consumer segment subsequently faced severe repercussions, leading to delayed product launches, reduced inventory levels, and increased product prices. Looking ahead, industry analysts predict a potential stabilization of prices projected between mid-2027 and 2028.

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