高算力时代 需以DDR5“换挡”驱动存储产业破局

Core Insights - The storage chip market is experiencing an unusual price inversion, where the older DDR4 memory is priced higher than the more advanced DDR5, with DDR4 32GB RDIMM prices exceeding $290, a rise of over 300% since the beginning of the year, while DDR5's price increase is less than half of that [1] - The price discrepancy is driven by deep-seated supply and demand issues, as many domestic data centers continue to use DDR4-compatible CPU platforms, while major DRAM manufacturers are phasing out DDR4 production [1][2] - The shift towards DDR5 is being propelled by AI applications, with DDR5 now accounting for over 90% of the global server DRAM market, but the domestic ecosystem is lagging in adaptation [2][3] Supply and Demand Dynamics - Major storage companies like Samsung and SK Hynix are focusing production on DDR5 and high-bandwidth memory for AI, leading to a continuous reduction in DDR4 production lines [2][4] - Some distributors are stockpiling DDR4 inventory, causing irrational price increases, with some transactions exceeding a 50% premium, indicating a departure from normal pricing mechanisms [2] Industry Challenges - The transition to DDR5 requires comprehensive support from CPUs, motherboards, and software, which poses a challenge for domestic manufacturers [3] - If the industry remains reliant on DDR4 technology, it risks falling behind in the global AI computing competition, as DDR4's price advantage has diminished due to its rising costs [4][3] Strategic Recommendations - Industry stakeholders are urged to recognize the opportunity presented by the transition to DDR5 rather than struggling in the distorted DDR4 market [5]