Samsung Keeps DDR4 Memory Alive
Samsung has decided to delay shutting down its DDR4 production line because demand for this older memory standard is still stronger than expected. This is an important move for PC builders, gamers and system integrators who still rely on DDR4 based platforms.
While DDR5 is the new standard for modern CPUs from Intel and AMD, a huge number of gaming PCs, workstations and servers continue to run on DDR4. Motherboards, prebuilt systems and budget rigs using DDR4 remain very common, so a sudden drop in supply would have pushed prices up and made upgrades more expensive.
By extending DDR4 production, Samsung is helping to stabilize the market and keep compatible memory available for users who are not ready to move to DDR5 yet.
Why DDR4 Still Matters For PC Builders
Many gamers and PC enthusiasts are still on platforms that use DDR4 memory. These include popular Intel and AMD generations that remain perfectly capable for 1080p and 1440p gaming. Because of this, DDR4 continues to play a key role in the component market.
Here are a few reasons DDR4 demand remains high:
- Huge installed base: Millions of systems worldwide still use DDR4 and do not require a full platform upgrade.
- Budget friendly builds: DDR4 kits are usually cheaper than DDR5, making them attractive for entry level or mid range gaming PCs.
- Prebuilt and OEM systems: Many office PCs, gaming prebuilts and small form factor systems still ship with DDR4.
- Servers and industrial systems: Long life platforms in business and industry often keep using DDR4 for years to maintain compatibility and stability.
Because of this wide adoption, any shift in production from a major manufacturer like Samsung can have a big impact on pricing and availability across the market.
NCNR Contracts And What They Mean
Samsung is expected to allocate DDR4 output to a client that signs an NCNR contract. NCNR stands for non cancellable and non returnable. In simple terms, this type of contract means the buyer commits to purchasing a set amount of product and cannot cancel or send it back later.
For memory production, NCNR deals usually mean:
- Guaranteed demand for the manufacturer: Samsung can plan its production lines more confidently, knowing that a certain volume of DDR4 will definitely be sold.
- More stable supply for the buyer: The client that signs the contract secures a reliable stream of DDR4 modules, which is crucial if they build systems at scale.
- Less risk of sudden shortages: With planned output and guaranteed orders, there is a lower chance of surprise gaps in the supply chain.
Although the specific client is not named, it is likely an OEM or large system builder that still ships a high volume of DDR4 based machines. By locking in an NCNR contract, they ensure they can keep building these systems without running into memory shortages.
What This Means For Gamers And Upgraders
For individual PC gamers and DIY builders, Samsung delaying the end of DDR4 production is generally good news. It suggests that DDR4 will remain available for longer, which can benefit several types of users.
- Owners of older gaming rigs: If you are running a previous generation Intel Core or AMD Ryzen platform, you can still add more DDR4 to extend the life of your system without being forced into a full CPU and motherboard upgrade.
- Budget conscious builders: Entry level and mid range gaming PCs using cheaper CPUs and DDR4 motherboards will likely continue to be a solid option, especially for esports titles and 1080p gaming.
- Used hardware enthusiasts: As DDR4 stays in production, the second hand market for compatible boards and CPUs remains attractive, since you can still easily find new memory kits.
However, this does not change the long term direction of the market. DDR5 is still the future for high end gaming and workstation performance. New CPU generations will focus on DDR5, and over time DDR4 will gradually become a legacy option.
In the near term though, Samsung keeping DDR4 lines running helps smooth the transition. It gives gamers and PC users more flexibility to choose when to upgrade instead of being pushed by sudden supply cuts or price spikes.
If you are planning a new build today and want the best upgrade path, DDR5 is usually the smarter choice. But if you are refreshing an older system, this news means DDR4 remains a practical and supported option for a while longer.
