Sapphire rep predicts DRAM prices will begin to stabilize in the next 6-8 months, but warns 'it may not be the prices we want' — GPU vendor says memory crisis is similar to tariff uncertainty

Source: Tom’s Hardware

Summary

Amidst the economic uncertainty ushered in by this AI boom, some folks still have conviction and are offering hope to the community. Edward Crisler, the PR manager for GPU maker Sapphire, has just said that he believes DRAM prices will start to plateau in the next few months, so don’t panic‑buy right now.

“We’re seeing a lot of volatility in the market right now, but we expect the price curve to flatten out over the next six to eight months,” Crisler told Tom’s Hardware. “That said, the price point we end up at may not be the one we all want.”

Crisler’s comments come as the industry grapples with a memory shortage that has been exacerbated by:

• AI‑driven demand for high‑bandwidth memory in training large models.
• Supply chain constraints stemming from geopolitical tensions and pandemic‑related disruptions.
• Tariff uncertainties that have made it difficult for manufacturers to forecast costs.

What Sapphire is watching

Sapphire highlighted three key factors that will influence the trajectory of DRAM pricing:

1. Foundry capacity – The ability of fabs to ramp up production of DDR5 and emerging LPDDR5X chips.
2. Raw material costs – Prices for silicon, chemicals, and gases that feed memory fabrication.
3. Market sentiment – How quickly OEMs and system integrators adjust their inventory strategies.

Potential outcomes

• Optimistic scenario: Prices level off around the current $30‑$35 per GB range for DDR5, making high‑capacity kits more accessible to gamers and creators.
• Cautious scenario: Prices stabilize but at a higher plateau (≈ $40 per GB), still straining budgets for high‑end builds.
• Pessimistic scenario: External shocks (e.g., new tariffs or further supply chain hiccups) push prices back up, extending the current “memory crisis.”

What this means for consumers

• Avoid panic buying now; inventory levels are expected to improve.
• Monitor upcoming product launches – Many manufacturers plan to release DDR5‑optimized platforms later this year, which could help absorb excess supply.
• Consider alternatives – If you need memory soon, look into LPDDR5 or HBM2e solutions that may have different pricing dynamics.

Crisler concluded with a note of caution: “Even if the curve flattens, the market may settle at a price point that’s higher than what we’d like to see. It’s still a good idea to stay informed and plan purchases based on real‑world needs rather than speculation.”