January 25, 2026 – Memory prices are skyrocketing due to AI demand. Will Apple raise upgrade costs for M5 Macs? We analyze 9to5Mac’s report, supply chain data, and Apple’s pricing history to predict impacts on upcoming and older models.

Will Apple Raise Memory Prices for Upcoming Macs? 2026 Analysis

DRAM and NAND costs have risen sharply, with some segments up 4× in recent months. 9to5Mac asks whether Apple will pass these costs to customers in upcoming M5 Macs. Our conclusion: short-term unlikely for new releases, but long-term pressure is building.

Current Memory Price Surge

• DRAM: Prices expected to rise 40–70% in Q1 2026, another 20% in Q2 (TrendForce).
• NAND: Similar inflation projected through 2026 (Bank of America).
• Cause: AI datacenters consume high-end memory, causing consumer shortages.
• Apple exposure: Long-term supply deals expire early 2026 (Morgan Stanley).

Impact on Upcoming M5 Macs

M5 Pro/Max MacBook Pro (expected soon): Apple likely won’t raise base prices immediately. Current 16GB → 32GB upgrade costs $400 vs ~$230 market price (74% markup), giving Apple buffer room. Supply contracts still protect margins for M5 launch.

Impact on Current M4 Inventory

M4 MacBook Air/Pro, M3 iMac, Mac mini: Prices remain stable. Apple historically avoids mid-cycle increases to move inventory. Reseller prices may rise 5–10% if shortages persist, but official Apple pricing holds until stock clears.

Apple Upgrade Costs vs Market Reality

Future Outlook & Buying Advice

M6 Macs (summer 2026): Higher risk of increases if prices rise another 55% (CNBC projection). Apple may raise upgrades $100–200 per tier. Advice: Buy high-RAM M4 now (e.g., M4 Max 48GB on sale $3597). Wait for M5 if not urgent.

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