Framework RAM Prices Are Going Up Again
Framework is increasing the prices of its memory modules once again, and the reason comes down to a familiar story for anyone building or upgrading a PC. Memory prices on the global market are climbing, and that cost is now hitting smaller PC makers and DIY focused brands like Framework.
Instead of quietly bumping up prices and hoping customers do not notice, Framework is being upfront about the change. The company is clearly signaling that the wider memory market is going through a crunch and that it is affecting the entire PC building ecosystem, from individual builders to boutique laptop makers.
For anyone planning a new laptop configuration or upgrade, this means that the cost of adding more RAM directly through Framework is likely to be higher than it was just a short time ago.
Why Memory Prices Are Rising
RAM pricing has always been one of the more volatile parts of the PC hardware world. Periods of oversupply often lead to cheap memory kits, while spikes in demand or production issues can send prices upward fast. Framework is now feeling the effects of one of those upward swings.
Several factors typically play into this kind of crunch in the memory market:
- Increased demand from data centers and AI workloads that rely heavily on DRAM
- Manufacturers shifting production lines to newer memory standards or higher margin products
- Limited wafer capacity that has to be shared across many different chip types
When the big buyers soak up supply or push for new product lines, retail prices for standard laptop and desktop memory kits tend to follow. Smaller companies that do not have the volume of massive OEMs often get hit first and hardest.
Framework’s decision to raise prices is essentially a reflection of this broader market pressure rather than a unique issue with its own hardware.
Framework Tells You To Shop Around
What makes this situation stand out is Framework’s response. The company is not just announcing a price increase. It is also openly encouraging customers to look elsewhere for a better deal on RAM.
For PC gamers and hardware enthusiasts, this advice makes a lot of sense. Memory has long been one of the easiest components to mix and match, and Framework’s entire design philosophy is built around modularity and user choice. If DDR memory kits from mainstream brands are cheaper at other retailers, there is no reason not to take advantage of that and save money.
By suggesting that buyers shop around, Framework is reinforcing a few important points that matter to PC builders:
- You are not locked in to buying upgrades from a single vendor
- Standardized components like RAM should remain interchangeable
- Transparent communication helps builders plan their budgets more effectively
This attitude lines up well with how many PC gamers and tinkerers already think about parts. If prices rise in one place, you compare options and piece together the best configuration you can within your budget.
What This Means For PC Builders And Gamers
For anyone planning a new build or upgrade, rising memory prices are something to pay attention to. While RAM is only one part of a gaming setup, it can still have a noticeable impact on overall cost, especially for higher capacity kits used for modern games, streaming, and multitasking.
Here are a few practical tips to navigate this kind of memory market crunch:
- Compare prices across multiple retailers Do not assume the manufacturer’s store has the best deal on RAM.
- Check compatibility carefully If you buy from a third party, make sure the memory matches the form factor and speed that your system supports.
- Plan capacity for the long term With prices trending up, it may be worth buying a bit more RAM now if your workload is growing.
- Watch market trends Memory prices tend to move in cycles. If you are not in a rush, you can sometimes avoid buying at the peak.
For Framework users specifically, the situation highlights one of the strengths of the platform. Because the laptops use standard memory modules that can be swapped out, you can avoid paying a premium if you find a better price elsewhere. That is very different from many traditional laptops where memory is soldered to the board and cannot be upgraded at all.
On a broader level, this price movement is a reminder that PC building is always tied to the larger hardware supply chain. When one segment, like DRAM, tightens up, it can ripple into system prices and upgrade costs.
If you are building or upgrading a gaming PC or a productivity machine, it is smart to treat memory as a key part of your budget. Keep an eye on pricing trends, be flexible about where you buy, and take advantage of platforms like Framework that are designed to let you swap components freely.
Original article and image: https://www.tomshardware.com/laptops/laptop-maker-framework-announces-another-memory-price-hike-says-another-increase-is-coming-within-a-month-encourages-buyers-to-bring-their-own-memory-and-check-pcpartpicker-for-better-deals
