The explosion in artificial intelligence technologies continues to disrupt not only the software world but also the hardware market. The enormous demand for memory for data centers from giants like OpenAI has depleted global RAM stocks. This situation could impact the price of the Nintendo Switch 2, which was launched in recent months and is already experiencing stock shortages.
Why are RAM prices rising?
In October, some of the world’s largest memory manufacturers, such as Samsung and SK Hynix, made massive deals with OpenAI to allocate a large portion of their production to AI data centers. This restricted the supply of RAM allocated for consumer electronics and sent prices soaring. The price of DDR5 memory kits tripled in some regions, while older generation DDR4 memory also saw significant increases.
The Nintendo Switch 2 features 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM. This unstoppable rise in memory prices directly increases the console’s production cost. Analysts suggest that Nintendo may be forced to pass on these increased costs to consumers as its stock dwindles. Therefore, the controversial $450 launch price could rise even further in the near future.
The company is not immune to cost increases. As you may recall, Nintendo increased the prices of the original Switch and OLED models by $40 to $50 in August 2025, citing market conditions. While the Switch 2 has currently escaped this price hike, it may soon face the same fate as the RAM crisis deepens.
A similar danger exists for Xbox. Industry rumors suggest that Microsoft may also raise console prices due to increasing component costs.
So, should you rush to buy a Nintendo Switch 2, or wait for stocks to ease? Has this price increase changed your plans? Share your thoughts in the comments!
