One year into the AI-induced RAM apocalypse — how much does memory actually cost, and is there hope for a more affordable future?

AI-driven demand is squeezing the memory market, pushing DDR4 and DDR5 prices sharply higher along with SSDs and hard drives.

What used to be normal retail pricing has turned into several-times-higher costs for many kits, making PC upgrades much more expensive.

Micron is ending the Crucial consumer brand, while some vendors are briefly reviving DDR4 as a limited workaround.

The result is a tighter supply chain and far less relief for mainstream PC builders and DIY buyers.