Russian Modders Explore DIY DDR5 RAM as Global Memory Shortage Worsens
As the global memory shortage continues to push RAM prices higher, some hardware enthusiasts are turning to unconventional solutions. In Russia, a small but determined group of PC modders is experimenting with a radical idea: building DDR5 memory modules from scratch.
While most consumers are waiting for supply chains to stabilize, these enthusiasts believe do-it-yourself RAM could become a viable workaround if shortages persist.
Why DDR5 RAM Is Becoming Harder to Find Worldwide
The current memory crisis is driven by limited manufacturing capacity and shifting priorities across the semiconductor industry. Major producers are increasingly allocating resources to AI accelerators and data-center hardware, leaving consumer DDR5 supplies constrained.
With inventories drying up and prices rising across the U.S. and Europe, system builders are already exploring alternatives such as:
Reusing older memory kits
Laptop-to-desktop memory adapters
“Bring your own RAM” PC builds
DIY DDR5 is now emerging as the most extreme option yet.
Inside the Russian DIY RAM Experiment
The concept surfaced on the Telegram channel of Russian tech YouTuber PRO Hi-Tech, where a hardware modder known as Vik-on shared details of the process. Vik-on is already experienced in GPU VRAM upgrades, making precision soldering a familiar task.
According to the discussion:
Empty DDR5 DIMM PCBs can be sourced from Chinese suppliers for roughly $6–$7 per module
The biggest challenge is obtaining genuine DDR5 memory chips
Sourcing DDR5 Memory Chips Without Manufacturers
At present, there is no functional “spot market” for new DRAM chips. Even if manufacturers had surplus capacity, those chips would likely go to higher-margin enterprise and AI clients.
However, enthusiasts report that Samsung and SK Hynix DDR5 ICs can still be found on Chinese marketplaces—if the correct part numbers are used. Availability is inconsistent, but the components do exist.
How Much Does It Cost to Build Your Own DDR5?
According to estimates shared in the Telegram thread, assembling a 16GB DDR5 module with average specifications costs around 12,000 Russian rubles (about $150 USD)—roughly equal to current retail pricing.
A ZenTimings screenshot even shows CL28 timings, suggesting that relatively high-performance DDR5 is possible. That said, the process is not cost-effective and requires specialized equipment, including:
A BGA rework station
Reballing tools
Advanced soldering skills
Salvaging Memory Chips From Used Hardware
Some modders suggest a more practical approach: recycling existing RAM. Used desktop kits or laptop memory can be harvested for DDR5 ICs, which are then:
Desoldered from donor boards
Cleaned and reballed
Mounted onto new PCBs
This technique has been used before with DDR4 memory, particularly during past supply disruptions in China.
Is DIY DDR5 RAM Worth It Right Now?
For most users, the answer is no. Building your own DDR5 RAM remains a niche solution suited only to experienced hardware modders. Retail options—while expensive—are still more practical for the average PC builder.
However, if memory shortages worsen further, experiments like this could signal where the enthusiast market is headed next.
Innovation Born From a Global Memory Crisis
RAM prices continue to rise worldwide, and desperation is fueling creativity. What began as “bring your own RAM” options from system integrators may soon evolve into something even more unconventional.
While DIY DDR5 is unlikely to go mainstream anytime soon, it highlights how global shortages can push innovation to unexpected extremes—especially among passionate hardware communities.
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