⚡ Quick Summary
Framework has announced a significant price adjustment for DDR5 memory modules in its DIY Edition laptop lineup, with costs reaching approximately $10 per GB. The company is using a Weighted Average Cost (WAC) model to manage pricing amid volatile global DRAM supply chain pressures in late 2025.
Framework, the pioneer of modular and repairable laptop hardware, has once again found itself at the mercy of the volatile semiconductor market. In a transparent but sobering update to their customer base, the company announced a significant price adjustment for DDR5 memory modules across their DIY Edition laptop lineup.
The announcement reveals that the cost of memory has surged to approximately $10 per gigabyte of capacity for most modules. This move follows an earlier 50% price hike, signaling that the global supply chain for DRAM remains under extreme pressure as we move through late 2025.
For enthusiasts and professionals who have championed the Framework philosophy of "owning your hardware," this news serves as a stark reminder of the external economic factors that can impact even the most consumer-friendly manufacturers. While Framework aims to keep laptops available, the financial burden of these shortages is now being shared directly with the end-user.
Pricing and Inventory Strategy
The price adjustment is a direct response to significantly higher costs from DRAM suppliers and distributors. Framework noted that because they are constantly sourcing additional memory and each purchase comes in at different, often higher, pricing, they have adopted a specific accounting method to remain fair to consumers.
Framework is currently utilizing a Weighted Average Cost (WAC) model to determine pricing. This means that as they buy new batches of inventory at varying prices, the consumer price reflects the average cost of all units currently in stock. For the 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB modules, the price has stabilized at roughly $10/GB. However, for the 48GB modules, the cost per gigabyte is slightly higher based on the current purchase prices from their suppliers.
By setting memory configuration prices as close as possible to the actual purchase prices they have with distributors, Framework aims to ensure that customers can still purchase a computer when they need one, even during periods of extreme memory shortages and price volatility.
Core Functionality & Deep Dive
The decision to raise prices is not merely a profit-seeking venture but a strategy for a company that prides itself on transparency. By pricing memory "as close as possible to the actual purchase prices," Framework is attempting to maintain its inventory levels. Without these adjustments, the company would likely face stock-outs, preventing customers from purchasing a functioning laptop at all.
The impact of this pricing on the DIY Edition is notable. A standard 32GB kit (2x16GB) now adds a significant amount to the configuration price. This puts Framework in a position where they must pass on cost increases that they can no longer absorb internally.
However, the core appeal of a Framework laptop remains its flexibility. Even with high DRAM prices, the ability to buy a laptop with 0GB of RAM and source your own memory remains a viable option for builders. This flexibility is a direct contrast to the industry trend of non-upgradable hardware, where a memory failure or a need for more capacity would require replacing the entire logic board.
Market Challenges & Future Outlook
The primary challenge facing Framework and its users is the continued price volatility in the DRAM market. Framework has stated that they must respond to the volatility its suppliers are experiencing, and another increase today is a natural response to those market conditions. Recent issues with DDR5 memory price and logistics across other major brands highlight how volatile the current market has become for these specific components.
Looking forward, the DRAM market is expected to remain tight. Framework's commitment to transparency ensures that customers are aware of why these costs are changing, but it also leaves the company vulnerable to the pricing whims of the broader industry. The company originally suggested that further increases might be necessary if supplier costs continued to climb, a prediction that has now come to fruition.
Community feedback has been mixed. While many applaud the company's honesty regarding their "Weighted Average Cost" accounting, others are concerned about the rising entry-level price of the hardware. The future outlook depends heavily on whether DRAM costs from suppliers and distributors stabilize or if the current period of extreme shortage continues for the foreseeable future.
| Module Capacity | Framework DDR5 Price (Late 2025) | Pricing Model | Supply Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB | $10.00 per GB | Weighted Average Cost (WAC) | Extreme Shortage |
| 48 GB | >$10.00 per GB | Weighted Average Cost (WAC) | Extreme Shortage |
Expert Verdict & Future Implications
From a hardware reviewer's perspective, Framework's announcement is a "necessary evil." In an era where corporate obfuscation is the norm, seeing a company explicitly explain their inventory accounting (WAC) and supplier struggles is refreshing. However, from a value proposition standpoint, the $10/GB price point is a tough pill to swallow for the average consumer. It pushes the entry-level price of a functional Framework laptop significantly higher than it was previously.
The market impact will likely be a surge in "Bring Your Own RAM" orders. Framework's DIY Edition allows users to skip the memory purchase entirely. This will drive customers toward third-party retailers or the used market to find more competitive pricing. While this affects Framework’s direct revenue from component sales, it reinforces the very reason the company exists: to give the user the power of choice.
In the long term, this price hike may change how users configure their systems, perhaps opting for lower capacities initially with the intent to upgrade later when the market stabilizes. If Framework can navigate this period of volatility without compromising their commitment to modularity, they will emerge as a battle-tested leader in the right-to-repair movement. For now, potential buyers should carefully weigh the cost of convenience against the savings of sourcing their own memory.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Framework charging more for RAM than they were previously?
Framework is responding to significantly higher costs from DRAM suppliers and distributors. The company stated it cannot absorb all these cost increases and needs to pass some on to consumers to ensure they can continue to provide hardware during this period of extreme shortage.
Can I buy a Framework laptop without the DDR5 memory?
Yes. The Framework Laptop DIY Edition allows you to customize your order and opt-out of purchasing memory modules entirely. You can then purchase compatible DDR5 modules from any third-party vendor and install them yourself.
Will the prices for Framework memory modules go down in the future?
Framework has stated they will adjust prices as their supplier costs change. Because they use a Weighted Average Cost (WAC) model, if the costs they pay to suppliers and distributors decrease, the consumer price should eventually reflect those savings.