Older RAM Becomes Viable as Prices Climb
Source: The Verge
CPU manufacturers are supporting legacy memory standards as DDR5 pricing makes new-build economics punitive for mainstream consumers. This extends the useful lifespan of older platforms rather than forcing upgrades. Budget PC builders can still access functional older systems, but the semiconductor supply chain's margin expectations are outpacing what the market will bear at scale. The pressure is real enough that Intel and AMD are willing to sacrifice the clean product transitions that usually drive their ecosystem forward.