Technology enthusiasts keen on modular desktops will need to dig a little deeper into their pockets as Framework faces higher costs due to a global memory shortage. The company has confirmed a price hike for its Framework Desktop PC, as the skyrocketing price of LPDDR5x RAM forces manufacturers to adjust. Starting immediately, the base model of the Framework Desktop with 32GB of RAM and an AMD Ryzen AI Max 385 chip will now cost $1,139—up from its previous price of $1,099.

The news follows a recent decision by Framework to raise prices on its standalone RAM modules. Framework’s statement on X (formerly Twitter) read: "We held off on it for as long as we could, but we had to update our Framework Desktop pricing today to account for the massive increase in LPDDR5x pricing from our suppliers. As before, we're only adjusting prices enough to cover the increases in cost."

Why This Matters

The global memory shortage is far from new, but its impact has become increasingly evident as manufacturers like Framework grapple with soaring supply chain costs. LPDDR5x memory—a critical component in modern computing devices—is seeing unprecedented price increases, forcing businesses to either absorb the costs or pass them on to consumers. Unfortunately, Framework, known for its commitment to transparency and sustainability, has been unable to shield its customers entirely from the pinch.

This development comes at a time when consumers are becoming more conscious of customizable desktop PCs. Framework’s innovative products appeal to tech enthusiasts who value modularity and repairability, but with rising costs, the accessibility of these devices may face challenges.

A Signal to the Industry

Framework’s decision highlights the ongoing struggle for tech manufacturers in the face of supply chain pressures. Other brands may soon follow suit, making this issue not just Framework’s problem, but an industry-wide hurdle for both businesses and consumers alike. Higher costs for hardware will likely deter some buyers, while others might choose to downsize their configurations to save money.

For Framework users looking to upgrade or customize, this price increase serves as a reminder to act early or stretch their upgrade intervals. The transparency with which Framework has approached this issue—openly acknowledging the cause and taking only minimal adjustments to cover costs—might help cushion the blow for its loyal customer base.

As the tech world continues to navigate supply chain bottlenecks, customers are advised to keep an eye on pricing trends, especially for components like RAM. For now, the Framework Desktop remains a solid investment for those prioritizing repairable, upgradable systems. However, rising costs may make alternatives worth considering for budget-conscious buyers.