DDR4 Memory Prices Plunge 19.4% in One Day, EndingDRAM Bullish Cycle (2/12/2026)

DDR4 memory prices experienced a rare and sharp sell-off, with a single-day decline approaching 20% on February 12, 2026. The month has seen continued volatility: 8GB prices fell from 260–270 RMB to 180–190 RMB, and 16GB from 800 RMB to 650 RMB. This abrupt drop signals the end of the prolonged rally that had drivenDRAM prices up 386% year-to-date, with 16GB DDR4 more than doubling in three months earlier this year. The rapid price drop followed heightened AI compute demand that spurred major makers like Samsung and SK Hynix to reduce DDR4 output to focus on high-margin HBM. Speculative buying and hoarding amplified the price, pushing markets away from基本面供需 to capital-driven speculation. With ample supply for lower-capacity DDR4 and a shift to DDR5—now 70–80% in PCs and servers—DDR4’s market share is below 30%, concentrated in longer-cycle devices like medical equipment and industrial controls. Analysts expect DDR4’s bullish phase to end as domestic memory capacity expands and speculative enthusiasm tapers, with pricing expected to回归理性的供需 fundamentals.