DDR5 Prices Are Getting Wild
If you are planning a high end PC build right now, you might notice something surprising. Top tier DDR5 memory is starting to cost more than some next generation graphics cards.
A recent listing on Newegg shows two 128 GB G.Skill DDR5 RAM kits that each include a free 50 dollar Starbucks gift card. That sounds like a fun bonus, but it also highlights how serious the current DRAM pricing crisis has become for DIY PC builders.
Both of these 128 GB kits are listed at a higher price than a brand new RTX 5080 graphics card. When system memory starts to outprice a flagship GPU, you know something unusual is happening in the market.
What This Means For PC Builders
For most gamers and everyday users, 128 GB of RAM is far beyond what you actually need. Many gaming PCs still run great with 16 GB and heavy multitaskers or content creators are usually very comfortable at 32 GB.
So who are these 128 GB kits really for?
- Creators working with massive 4K and 8K video projects
- Developers running many virtual machines or containers
- Professionals using heavy 3D rendering or simulation software
- Workstation users who want a single all in one rig for everything
In those scenarios, 128 GB can make sense. The issue is that the price jump has become huge. When your memory kit costs more than a high end RTX 5080, it forces tough choices about where to put your budget.
For gaming focused systems, it usually makes more sense to invest more money into the GPU and CPU while keeping RAM at a sensible capacity like 32 GB or 64 GB. Paying workstation class prices for memory only makes sense if your workloads truly benefit from that much capacity.
How To Build Smart During a DRAM Price Spike
The DRAM pricing crisis is hitting DIY builders, but you can still make smart decisions and avoid overpaying.
-
Right size your RAM
Ask what you actually need. For pure gaming, 16 GB to 32 GB is usually enough. For streaming, light content creation, and multitasking, 32 GB is a great sweet spot. -
Pick speed and latency wisely
With DDR5, going for the absolute highest speeds can be very expensive. For most users, a solid mid to high range kit with decent timings gives better value than chasing the top of the chart. -
Avoid impulse buys for freebies
A 50 dollar Starbucks gift card is fun, but it does not justify spending hundreds extra on memory you do not need. Focus on performance per pound or performance per dollar, not bonus items. -
Upgrade in stages
If you are on a budget, you can start with a good 32 GB DDR5 kit, then expand later when prices settle. Many boards have four DIMM slots so you can add more sticks rather than buying a huge kit up front. -
Consider your use case honestly
If you are not sure you need 128 GB, you probably do not. Only serious workstation or professional setups tend to benefit from that level of memory.
In the current market, treating RAM like a premium luxury part is becoming surprisingly normal at the very high end. That does not mean every builder has to follow the same trend. With a balanced approach, you can still build a powerful gaming or creator PC without letting DDR5 prices swallow your whole budget.
Original article and image: https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/ram/newegg-bundles-usd1-460-128gb-ddr5-ram-kit-with-usd50-starbucks-gift-card-drink-coffee-while-you-game-retailer-says-as-memory-hits-rtx-5080-pricing
