As storage devices’ prices spiraled out of control, this equally affected video memory costs, directly leading to a hike in graphics card prices, prompting manufacturers to resort to rather unusual methods. Users on the international forum Reddit reported a sudden and significant price increase for graphics cards from brands such as Gigabyte. For example, after ordering the Gigabyte RTX 5070 Ti WindForce, users received a notification of delivery delays. The next day, the order was canceled, and the price rose by $200.
Some online users also claimed they received a notification from the retailer about graphics card stock limitations: the RTX 5070 Ti, 5080, and 5090 were entirely out of stock, with only 5 RTX 5070 graphics cards purchasable at a time. This extends beyond just graphics cards to memory. For example, a user ordered Corsair 48 GB DDR5 RAM for $240, but the order was canceled due to a pricing error, which increased.
On New Year’s Eve, a network user bought a Corsair computer for $3500, but the order was canceled, and it turned out the price changed to $4300. Previously, similar stories were shared by Zotac buyers.
Market Dynamics and Consumer Reactions
The persistent semiconductor shortage continues to impact the graphics card market, affecting predominant brands like Gigabyte, NVIDIA, and AMD. Prices have fluctuated vastly due to soaring demand and limited supplies. Meanwhile, DDR5 memory faces similar pricing turmoil due to elevated production costs and component scarcity.
The causes of price discrepancies for DDR5 memory can stem from the fluctuating availability of crucial components and the rapid alteration in supplier pricing structures. Sudden shifts often reflect the recalibrations in vendor stock assessments and the shifting of distribution priorities.
Industry’s Strategic Responses
Price increases are partially linked to enhanced manufacturing costs and logistical challenges posed by semiconductor shortages. Consumer reactions oscillate between frustration over price surges to tactical purchasing strategies during brief restocks. Companies are investing heavily in expanding production capacities and leveraging innovative technologies to mitigate these supply chain constraints.
