Framework raises laptop computer RAM costs 50% as brutal reminiscence crunch grinds on
Framework is a novel firm, providing modular laptops designed for simple repairs and near-infinite upgrades. However it’s additionally a small firm, far more inclined to market modifications introduced on by issues like capricious tariffs. Although it’s tried to insulate itself from skyrocketing RAM costs introduced on by “AI” datacenter demand, one thing needed to give. And that “one thing” is laptop computer costs.
A couple of weeks in the past Framework stopped promoting RAM individually from laptops and the brand new desktop (which makes use of the identical SO-DIMM reminiscence), giving a public assertion that it was attempting to stop scalpers from shopping for up provide, and saving its reserves for patrons who purchase pre-configured laptops. However now the costs for stated laptops, when configured with reminiscence, are rising. In a weblog publish from founder Nirav Patel, the corporate introduced a 50 p.c worth bump for RAM (and solely RAM) within the retailer configuration instrument.
A single 8GB stick of DDR5 RAM prices $60 (and I wouldn’t even advocate going that low to run Home windows 11). Two 8GB sticks for 16GB whole prices $120, although you will get a single 16GB stick for a similar worth. 32GB is $240, with costs going up predictably all the best way to $720 for 2x48GB, 96GB in whole. Checking an Archive.org backup of the Framework retailer, these costs are certainly 50 p.c greater than they had been earlier than at this time. Costs on different parts haven’t modified — if you happen to occur to have a supply of cheap RAM, you’ll be able to nonetheless purchase the laptop computer with none reminiscence in any respect.
RAM costs have been fully uncontrolled for the previous couple of months, with consumer-packaged DDR5 doubling and now tripling in price. A increase in “AI” datacenters, hungry for reminiscence and storage, is assumed to have devoured up all the commercial manufacturing capability. Micron, one of many “massive three” reminiscence producers, will fully shutter its Essential sub-brand with a purpose to concentrate on supplying the AI trade. Different firms like Lenovo try to maintain costs down with forward-looking offers and stockpiling.
However customers who need to purchase and set up their very own reminiscence are on the very backside of this specific financial totem pole, and getting the worst of a foul state of affairs. Framework isn’t far off, although the weblog publish says the corporate has “sturdy partnerships with Micron…[and] reminiscence module makers like ADATA.”
I’ve spoken with varied representatives of PC producers in the previous couple of weeks, and requested all of them concerning the RAM and storage state of affairs. They’ve given related solutions, although none had been prepared to enter specifics or decide to something relating to pricing in 2026. It’s disappointing, however unsurprising. The lengthy and the in need of it’s this: If you happen to can await an improve, accomplish that…and if you happen to want an improve within the close to future, you would possibly need to pull the set off now earlier than costs go greater and better.
Framework is dedicated to staying clear about pricing, although it notes that the return coverage must be adjusted. It worries that scalpers will purchase its laptops for the below-market costs on RAM alone. So if you happen to return your Framework laptop, the RAM has to return with it, too.
