Key Takeaways
1. HP and Lenovo have secured RAM supply deals with Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron through 2026 amid a RAM crisis driven by high AI demand.
2. Smaller PC manufacturers and DIY builders may struggle to negotiate similar supply agreements, worsening their situation in the RAM shortage.
3. Lenovo has increased its memory stockpile by 50%, but still expects RAM price increases in 2026.
4. TrendForce predicts DRAM and SSD prices will account for 23% of production costs for high-end laptops in 2026, with significant price variations expected.
5. If Lenovo or HP maintain their RAM allocations, they may be less affected by price swings, but consumer benefits remain uncertain.
If the reports are accurate, HP or Lenovo have managed to secure deals with Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron to ensure a steady RAM supply through 2026. With the current RAM crisis driving memory prices up due to the high demand from AI, this decision seems reasonable. It’s somewhat reassuring that at least one major PC brand is locking in a portion of RAM supply, especially after OpenAI took an estimated 40% for itself.
Pricing Challenges Ahead
However, the situation regarding computer memory is already quite grim, which means this news might not be beneficial for everyone. Smaller PC manufacturers likely won’t be able to negotiate similar supply agreements with RAM producers, and independent builders or DIY fans have almost no options to fall back on. In response to the RAM shortage, for instance, Maingear introduced a Bring Your Own RAM initiative. Last month, it was reported that Lenovo had boosted its memory stockpile by 50%, but they are still anticipating price increases in 2026. If Lenovo is indeed the key player who secured this RAM deal with the three manufacturers, it paints a bleak picture for PC pricing, ranging from budget to premium segments in 2026.
Future Predictions
TrendForce, who highlighted this report from Yicai Global, estimates that DRAM and SSD prices will constitute 23% of the production costs for high-end laptops in 2026, with more significant price variations expected in the second quarter of that year. If Lenovo or HP truly obtained an exclusive RAM allocation extending into next year, those brands might be shielded from the worst price swings anticipated in the PC memory market. However, only time will tell how long this protection will endure or whether consumers purchasing those laptops will benefit from any potential savings. As a top source for laptop and PC news and reviews, we will certainly keep a close watch on how this situation unfolds, but the outlook isn’t very promising.
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