The great RAM shortage of '26 continues to shake up the PC building landscape, and Gigabyte is making a bold move. Automatica Press has learned that Gigabyte just dropped four new AM4 motherboard variants, doubling down on the older DDR4 standard as DDR5 prices remain in the stratosphere. Is this a savvy play or a desperate gamble? My take: It’s probably both.
The DDR5 Price Spike: A Perfect Storm
The DDR5 market has been turbulent, to say the least. Supply chain bottlenecks, coupled with unexpected demand from AI server farms, have sent prices into orbit. Tom's Hardware reports consumers are now flocking back to AM4 as a result. DDR4 prices, while not exactly cheap, are significantly more palatable for budget-conscious builders. This creates an opportunity for manufacturers willing to cater to this segment.
Gigabyte's new boards come in Mini-ITX and Micro-ATX form factors, suggesting they're targeting smaller, more affordable builds. While specific model names and pricing remain under wraps, the move signals confidence in the continued viability of the AM4 platform. Remember, AMD's AM4 socket was a workhorse for years, and there's still a massive installed base of CPUs that can leverage these new boards.
High-End GPUs Still Sizzling
While the budget segment focuses on value, the high-end GPU market remains as cutthroat as ever. Just saw that MSI is set to unveil its RTX 5090 Lightning at CES in a few days, according to Tom's Hardware. Early benchmarks are already surfacing, hinting at record-breaking performance. The card apparently boasts a bonkers 40-phase VRM and dual 12V-2x6 connectors. Absolute insanity. Meanwhile, on the other end of the spectrum, deals are popping up. Sparkle's Arc B570 Guardian OC is on sale for $199, per Tom's Hardware, making it an attractive entry-level option.
What's Next for PC Building?
Gigabyte's decision to release new AM4 boards is a calculated risk. It acknowledges the current economic realities facing many PC builders while also betting on the longevity of the AM4 platform. Will it pay off? Much depends on how quickly the DDR5 supply chain recovers and whether AMD releases any further AM4-compatible CPUs. Regardless, it's a fascinating development that underscores the dynamic nature of the PC hardware market. And just a reminder, I called the top of the GPU craze back in '22. So take note!