Paradox Customs has introduced a rather radical option to its ready-made PC configurator: the ability to order a system without RAM installed. The boutique manufacturer says this move is a direct response to the massive memory shortage and sky-high DRAM prices that are currently rocking the industry and have made it nearly impossible for system makers to keep kits in stock at a predictable price. For buyers who still have a set of sticks at home or want to find a bargain elsewhere, this is a way to avoid the “RAM tax” that drives up the cost of prebuilt devices.
A pragmatic response to a volatile market
The decision illustrates how chaotic the hardware market has become at the end of 2025. RAM used to be the most “boring” part of a PC build – it was cheap, easy to find, and almost never failed. But as AI data centers gobble up the world’s supply of high-bandwidth memory, consumer prices for DDR5 have nearly tripled in the last year.
By offering the “bring your own memory” option, Paradox Customs completely bypasses supply chain issues. This allows them to maintain their shipping systems without having to increase their base prices every time a new shipment of expensive storage arrives. For the customer, this means the chance to save hundreds of dollars by already having a compatible kit on the shelf.
The risks of a “RAM-less” pre-built product
However, this change is not without growing pains. Unlike adding a second hard drive, installing RAM depends heavily on how a computer actually functions. Memory compatibility is notoriously difficult, especially on newer AMD and Intel platforms. If a user buys a system without RAM and connects a kit that the motherboard doesn’t like, they may face a black screen or constant blue screen crashes.
This creates an opaque “gray area” for support. If the PC won’t start, is it the manufacturer’s fault or a problem with the user’s RAM? Paradox has made it clear that while they continue to support the rest of the hardware, the customer is ultimately responsible for ensuring their own RAM works. For less experienced users, what was intended as a convenient “turnkey” pre-built solution could quickly turn into a frustrating DIY troubleshooting project.
What this means for the future of PCs
For now, Paradox Customs’ move feels more like a clever survival tactic than a permanent change to the way PCs are sold. But it raises questions about where we’re headed. If these shortages continue into 2026, we may see more builders leave the most expensive or scarce components to buyers.
For the savvy enthusiast, this is a great way to cut costs and reuse old parts. But for the average person who just wants a computer that works out of the box, it’s a stark reminder that the “golden age” of cheap, abundant PC parts is temporarily on hold. If you’re planning a build soon, it’s best to double-check your motherboard’s compatibility list before trying to save money by bringing your own sticks.
