Quick Answer
DDR5 is now cheaper than DDR4 in South Africa because DDR5 production has scaled up massively while DDR4 manufacturing winds down, flipping the old price gap. A 32GB DDR5-6000 kit (around R1,800) often costs the same or less than a comparable DDR4-3600 kit, so for any new build there is no reason to choose DDR4. SA buyers benefit directly, with locally stocked DDR5 kits priced competitively against fading DDR4 stock.
Why the prices flipped
When DDR5 launched it carried a steep premium as a new technology in limited supply. Years on, DDR5 is the mainstream standard, made in huge volume, while DDR4 has moved to end-of-life with shrinking production. Falling DDR5 supply costs and a thinning DDR4 market have inverted the gap, so DDR5 now matches or undercuts DDR4 at equivalent capacity. New platforms like AM5 and current Intel Core use DDR5 exclusively.
What it means for your build
For any new build, choose DDR5 — it is faster, on the current platforms, and now priced competitively. A 32GB DDR5-6000 CL30 kit is the gaming sweet spot; enable EXPO or XMP so it runs at rated speed. Only stick with DDR4 if you are upgrading an older DDR4-only motherboard and not replacing it. For a fresh AM5 or Intel build, DDR5 is the obvious choice on both price and performance. Because the AM5 socket has a long support life, a DDR5-6000 kit bought now will carry over to a future CPU upgrade, so you are not spending on memory you will replace in a year — another reason DDR4 makes little sense for a new machine.
FAQ
Is DDR5 really cheaper than DDR4 now?
Often yes. A 32GB DDR5-6000 kit (around R1,800) frequently matches or undercuts a comparable DDR4-3600 kit as DDR4 production winds down.
Should I still buy DDR4?
Only if upgrading an older DDR4-only board you are keeping. For any new AM5 or Intel build, DDR5 is faster and now competitively priced.
What DDR5 speed should I buy?
DDR5-6000 CL30 for gaming, with EXPO or XMP enabled so it runs at the rated speed rather than a slow default.
Before you buy
For any new build, choose DDR5-6000 over DDR4 — it is now priced competitively, faster, and on the current platforms.
