Key Takeaways
1. Dell is charging $550 for a 32 GB memory upgrade, significantly higher than competitors like Apple, which charges $400 for the same upgrade.
2. Framework offers a much lower upgrade cost of $80 for 32 GB memory, criticizing Dell’s pricing practices.
3. Future RAM prices are expected to rise due to a shortage, with OpenAI controlling a large portion of the memory supply.
4. If Framework’s stock runs out, they may have to increase prices to align with market conditions.
5. Consumers interested in Framework laptops should consider purchasing soon to avoid potential price hikes.
The shortage of memory supply is now affecting laptops, and GPU prices are also likely to drop significantly in the near future. Observant users have noticed that Dell is charging a crazy $550 extra to upgrade from 16 GB to 32 GB LPDDR5X memory on their Dell XPS 13.
Price Comparison with Apple
Dell’s pricing for memory upgrades surpasses even that of Apple, a company known for its high prices on memory and storage. Currently, Apple asks for an additional $400 for a 32 GB memory upgrade in the MacBook Air 13 M4 (Available on Amazon). This situation suggests that either Dell is struggling with RAM availability for its products and is adjusting its prices based on the current market conditions, or it is taking advantage of customers. Framework suspects the latter, as they have criticized Dell on X.
Framework’s Response
In response to a post on X highlighting Dell’s outrageous markup for 32 GB RAM, Framework pointed out that they only charge $80 extra for a 32 GB DDR5-5600 memory upgrade. This is a clear difference compared to Dell’s $550 and Apple’s $400 markup. Framework further clarifies that although a RAM price increase is on the way, they will not engage in price gouging like Dell or routinely overcharge for RAM upgrades like Apple.
Future RAM Availability
While Framework is dedicated to avoiding price hikes, it is evident that the upcoming increase in RAM prices will be harsh. OpenAI is reportedly controlling a large part of the global memory supply and is even sending its employees to purchase retail DDR5 kits. This could result in all laptop manufacturers struggling to find memory, worsening the ongoing RAM shortage.
Should Framework’s stock run out, they will have to conform to market dynamics and shift the cost onto consumers. Therefore, if you are in the market for a laptop and are interested in Framework, now would be an ideal time to make a purchase.
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