Electronic Prices Set to Rise in 2026: What to Expect

The electronics market is facing significant price increases, particularly in Random Access Memory (RAM), expected to unfold throughout 2026. As RAM has become a crucial component in various devices, its soaring price is attributed to heightened demand fueled by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and the expansion of data centers.

RAM Prices: An Upward Trend

Since October 2025, the cost of RAM has reportedly more than doubled. This spike is largely the result of increased demand driven by AI technologies requiring higher specifications of memory components. In fact, some manufacturers are experiencing price surges up to 500% compared to previous figures.

Supply and Demand Imbalance

• The rise in RAM prices stems from a balance disruption between supply and demand.
• High demand, particularly from cloud service providers, is not being met by RAM producers.
• Vendors’ inventory levels significantly affect price variations among manufacturers.

Steve Mason, general manager of CyberPowerPC, emphasized that when component costs rise steeply, manufacturers face tough pricing decisions. Danny Williams from PCSpecialist predicts that if RAM prices do not stabilize, consumer demand might decline in 2026.

AI’s Role in Driving Costs

Chris Miller, author of “Chip War,” identifies AI as a primary driver of increased memory chip demand. He notes that high-performance memory types, which are essential for AI processes, have seen particularly steep price increases.

Price Forecasts for 2026

• Memory chips account for 15-20% of total PC costs; current prices may push this to 30-40%.
• A typical 16GB laptop’s manufacturing cost could rise by $40 to $50 due to RAM price increases.
• Smartphones may also face a cost increase of about $30 for manufacturing.

As the market continues to grapple with rising costs, manufacturers might forego consumer sales. Micron, a key RAM supplier, announced plans to focus solely on AI demand, reducing market choices for consumers.

Implications for Consumers

Consumers will have to choose between accepting higher prices for better performance or opting for lower-performing devices. Some may even resort to using older technology for an extended period, given the rising expenses associated with new products.

The outlook for 2026 remains uncertain, with insights suggesting persistent challenges in pricing and supply chains worldwide into 2027. As the landscape shifts, consumers and manufacturers alike must navigate the evolving electronics market while addressing these significant changes.