SSD Contract Prices Surge by 303% Amid Flash Memory Shortage

Contract prices for SSDs have surged by 303% over the past year due to a flash memory shortage, with further increases expected as AI infrastructure demand continues to strain supply.

October 24, 2026, 10:27 PM·0 views

Photo: 3DNews - Daily Digital Digest

Contract prices for NAND flash memory continue to rise, with TrendForce projecting a further 15–20% increase in the fourth quarter of 2026 compared to the previous quarter.

The cost of 256 GB TLC SSDs reached approximately $134.20 in the third quarter of 2026, up from $33.30 a year prior, marking a 303% increase. Similarly, 512 GB models rose from $62.40 to $252.

The surge in demand for AI infrastructure is a primary driver, with enterprise SSD demand expected to grow by over 80% in total capacity throughout 2026. Suppliers are prioritizing these high-margin products.

PC manufacturers are responding to rising costs by reducing storage capacities in mass-market models and utilizing existing inventory to limit new procurement, which is beginning to temper price growth.