RAM Shortage Pushes Low-Cost Computers Into Sharp Price Increases

A new IEEE Spectrum report describes how the current memory shortage is affecting low-cost computing products, including Raspberry Pi-class systems and configurable laptops. The article points to sharp price increases on RAM-heavy devices and cites TrendForce expectations for a major increase in memory contract pricing in the first quarter of 2026. For RamTrend readers, the core issue is that conventional DRAM, LPDDR, DDR products, and HBM all compete for related manufacturing resources. AI infrastructure demand is pulling more attention and capacity toward high-value memory products, while low-cost computer vendors have less purchasing leverage than large PC or datacenter customers. The impact is already visible in product strategy. Smaller hardware companies may raise prices, offer lower-memory versions, change memory configurations, or push buyers toward bring-your-own-RAM options where the platform allows it. Devices with soldered memory have fewer options because the RAM cost is embedded directly in the finished product. This is a strong upward pricing signal for the broader RAM market. It does not mean every memory product will rise at the same rate, but it shows that tight DRAM supply is moving beyond component buyers and into consumer-facing hardware prices.