Why DDR5 RAM is so expensive now?

DDR5 Memory is pricey due to the surging demand from AI server farms and data centers, which has caused a global memory shortage. This has led memory manufacturers to prioritize more profitable server-grade memory like HBM (high-Bandwidth Memory) over consumer-grade DDR5, drastically reducing supply for consumers while simultaneously causing the prices for both DDR5 and DDR4 to increase.

This is labeled as DDR5 and PC4. So, which is it? Is it 4 or 5?

The product is DDR5 4800 (PC4 38400). The 'PC4' label is part of the naming convention used for DDR5 memory, indicating its speed classification.

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Main image of Crucial 32GB (2 x 16GB) 262-Pin DDR5 SO-DIMM DDR5 4800 (PC4 38400) Laptop Memory Model CT2K16G48C40S5

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Crucial 32GB (2 x 16GB) 262-Pin DDR5 SO-DIMM DDR5 4800 (PC4 38400) Laptop Memory Model CT2K16G48C40S5

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Capacity: 32GB (2 x 16GB)

128GB (2 x 64GB)
96GB (2 x 48GB)
64GB (2 x 32GB)
48GB
32GB
32GB (2 x 16GB)
16GB
16GB (2 x 8GB)
8GB
64GB

Speed: DDR5 4800 (PC4 38400)

DDR5 4800 (PC4 38400)
DDR5 5600 (PC5 44800)

CAS Latency: CL40

CL40
CL46

DDR5 4800 (PC4 38400)
CAS Latency CL40
1.10V

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Best Seller Ranking	#5 in Laptop Memory

Model
Brand	Crucial
Model	CT2K16G48C40S5

Details
Capacity	32GB (2 x 16GB)
Type	262-Pin DDR5 SO-DIMM
Speed	DDR5 4800 (PC4 38400)
CAS Latency	CL40
Timing	40-39-39
Voltage	1.10V
ECC	No
Buffered/Registered	Unbuffered
Features	Unlock the potential of your 12th Gen Intel Core laptop processors Harness blazing speeds and massive memory bandwidth Game at higher frame rates, run demanding software, and power through heavy workloads Compatible only with DDR5-enabled laptop, not DDR4-enabled laptops ECC type = non-ECC, form factor = SODIMM, pin count = 262-pin, PC speed = PC5-38400, voltage = 1.1V, rank and configuration = 1Rx8

Additional Information
First Listed on Newegg	March 07, 2022

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Warranty

Limited Warranty period (parts): Lifetime
Limited Warranty period (labor): Lifetime
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Return Policies

We want to ensure your holiday shopping this year is hassle-free. That’s why we’re automatically extending our return policies on almost every product! For purchases placed between November 1st, 2025 and December 31, 2025 you will have until January 31, 2026 to return your product.

Return for refund until: January 31, 2026

Return for replacement until: January 31, 2026

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Crucial 32GB (2 x 16GB) 262-Pin DDR5 SO-DIMM DDR5 4800 (PC4 38400) Laptop Memory Model CT2K16G48C40S5

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Customer Reviews of the Crucial CT2K16G48C40S5

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Warranty, Returns, And Additional Information

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Item#: N82E16820156293

Best Sellers

Crucial 32GB (2 x 16GB) 262-Pin DDR5 SO-DIMM DDR5 4800 (PC4 38400) Laptop Memory Model CT2K16G48C40S5

Learn more about the Crucial CT2K16G48C40S5

Customer Reviews of the Crucial CT2K16G48C40S5

Warranty & Returns

Warranty, Returns, And Additional Information

Warranty

Return Policies

Manufacturer Contact Info