RAM prices have surged from 2020 to 2026, with DDR4-3200 kits costing substantially more today. In 2020, a 32GB DDR4-3200 kit could be bought for about $95, while in October 2026 the cheapest comparable kit listed around $198. DDR5 memory remains more expensive to upgrade to, with 32GB DDR5-6000 kits starting around $454 in 2026. The price rise aligns with increasing AI data-center demand and a shift by suppliers toward newer, higher-margin products. Conventional DRAM contract prices also rose quarter-over-quarter in early 2026, contributing to higher consumer prices. Some manufacturers have reduced DDR4 production, further tightening supply. The used memory market has not provided a full relief, with older kits selling at prices that are still higher than historic 2020 levels. For example, a 32GB Corsair DDR4-3200 kit on the used market in September 2026 was about $130, still above 2020 prices. Reusing older RAM can limit motherboard compatibility, and platform transitions (AMD AM5 requiring DDR5) complicate cost-saving options.