RAM, once one of the cheapest PC components, has become one of the most expensive, now costing more than a processor or even a graphics card. For instance, purchasing 64GB of DDR5 RAM can now cost more than an entire PC, and 32GB can set you back nearly 500 euros, depending on the retailer. In the memory sector, manufacturers are achieving record revenues with escalating prices and high demand, fueled by the technological industry. In fact, the latest revenue figures place Samsung ahead of major global tech companies like Microsoft and Amazon in terms of Q1 2026 revenue, illustrating how the current AI era is significantly benefiting the company through its RAM sales.
With the current price of RAM, PC users and gamers have little incentive to purchase new systems or upgrade existing ones. RAM is a fundamental component for computer operation, and 16GB or even more is often required for playing the latest video games or running demanding software. Although RAM sales have considerably decreased following the price hikes, the demand from the AI industry remains high. Indeed, there are reports of a shortage of DRAM (RAM) and NAND Flash (SSD) memory.
Samsung Achieves Higher Q1 2026 Revenue from RAM Sales Than Big Tech Companies Like Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta
Memory manufacturers have capitalized on this situation to generate increased revenue, and it’s clearly working. Early in 2026, it was announced that Samsung would increase DRAM prices by 80%, projecting a 134% revenue increase for the year, and they are certainly achieving this. The provided chart clearly shows Samsung surpassing the world’s largest tech companies. With $38.9 billion in operating revenue in Q1 2026, Samsung has outperformed all except Aramco and Apple.
It’s important to note that the operating revenues for Q4 2025 were used for comparison with other companies. In this comparison, TSMC ranks last with $18.2 billion. Following TSMC are the American Big Tech companies: Microsoft with $20.6 billion, Meta with $24.7 billion, and Amazon with $25 billion.
Apple Leads in Revenue Thanks to iPhone 17 Sales
Alphabet (Google’s parent company) is significantly ahead with $35.9 billion but still trails Samsung’s incredible revenue generated from AI RAM sales. The company leading in revenue is Aramco with $41.3 billion. For those unfamiliar, Saudi Aramco is the world’s largest oil company, and with the ongoing events in the Middle East, oil prices have risen considerably.
In the top position is Apple with $50.8 billion. This might be surprising, as Apple leads in revenue despite its minimal involvement in AI. This success is attributed to excellent mobile sales, specifically the highly demanded iPhone 17. The iPhone 17 was a much more compelling launch than the iPhone 16 and also addressed the temperature issues found in the Pro models.
