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DRAM Prices Forecast to Nearly Double in Q1 2026 on AI-Fueled Shortage

Analysts cite hyperscaler procurement concentrating supply on servers to drive record quarterly jumps in contract pricing.

Overview

  • TrendForce now projects DRAM contract prices to rise 90–95% quarter over quarter in Q1 2026, with NAND expected up 55–60%.
  • PC DRAM is set for the steepest gains at an estimated 105–110%, while server and mobile LPDDR are projected to climb roughly 88–93%.
  • Industry trackers say most new and renewed agreements are steering supply to server DRAM for hyperscalers, leaving buyers with limited leverage.
  • DRAMeXchange reports Micron submitted a proposal quoting a 115–125% contract price increase versus Q4 2025, underscoring the seller-favored market.
  • Rising enterprise SSD orders for AI inference and OEM inventory drawdowns are intensifying shortages, and Micron says new fab capacity will not materially ease supply until about 2028.