The global shortage of RAM, a crucial component in modern computing devices, has taken a new turn. The chipmaker Nvidia has reportedly considered discontinuing its GeForce RTX 5070 Ti model due to the crippling effects of the supply crunch on its sales and profit margins.
As a result, manufacturers like Asus have begun to prioritize more profitable models by shifting production allocations from less lucrative GPUs. This decision is seen as a strategic move to maximize profits while maintaining profitability amidst the ongoing RAM shortage.
The price spikes are most pronounced in the GPU market, with prices for RTX 5070 Ti models exceeding $1,100 on Newegg, compared to around $600 for the higher-end RTX 5080 model. This shift is particularly evident in street prices, where RTX 5070 Tis are now being sold at a whopping 40-50% premium over their original MSRP.
In contrast, low-end and mid-range GPUs, such as the regular RTX 5070, Radeon RX 9070, and GeForce RTX 5060, continue to offer relatively more affordable options for consumers. However, even these lower-tier GPUs are seeing price increases of around $100-$200 over their original MSRP.
The RAM shortage has also started affecting SSD prices, with the availability of high-capacity models becoming increasingly scarce. Currently, top brands like Samsung and WD/SanDisk (whose branded versions are temporarily unavailable) have limited or no stock at major retailers, leading to dramatic price increases. Some 2TB drives are now selling for over $400, while others, such as the SiliconPower UD90, remain available for around $360.
Spinning hard drive prices are also rising gradually, with certain models increasing in value by up to $20-30 since last year's sales.
The ongoing RAM shortage and its ripple effects on other components will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on consumer markets. As manufacturers adapt to these supply chain challenges, it is essential for consumers to monitor pricing trends and consider their needs carefully before making any purchases.
As a result, manufacturers like Asus have begun to prioritize more profitable models by shifting production allocations from less lucrative GPUs. This decision is seen as a strategic move to maximize profits while maintaining profitability amidst the ongoing RAM shortage.
The price spikes are most pronounced in the GPU market, with prices for RTX 5070 Ti models exceeding $1,100 on Newegg, compared to around $600 for the higher-end RTX 5080 model. This shift is particularly evident in street prices, where RTX 5070 Tis are now being sold at a whopping 40-50% premium over their original MSRP.
In contrast, low-end and mid-range GPUs, such as the regular RTX 5070, Radeon RX 9070, and GeForce RTX 5060, continue to offer relatively more affordable options for consumers. However, even these lower-tier GPUs are seeing price increases of around $100-$200 over their original MSRP.
The RAM shortage has also started affecting SSD prices, with the availability of high-capacity models becoming increasingly scarce. Currently, top brands like Samsung and WD/SanDisk (whose branded versions are temporarily unavailable) have limited or no stock at major retailers, leading to dramatic price increases. Some 2TB drives are now selling for over $400, while others, such as the SiliconPower UD90, remain available for around $360.
Spinning hard drive prices are also rising gradually, with certain models increasing in value by up to $20-30 since last year's sales.
The ongoing RAM shortage and its ripple effects on other components will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on consumer markets. As manufacturers adapt to these supply chain challenges, it is essential for consumers to monitor pricing trends and consider their needs carefully before making any purchases.