Costco shoppers are finding empty RAM slots where memory modules should be. The warehouse retailer has started systematically removing RAM from its display gaming PCs after thieves began brazenly stealing sticks directly from motherboard slots. This marks a dramatic escalation in retail security measures as PC component prices skyrocket due to AI-driven shortages.
The Reddit Post That Started It All
A photo shared on r/pcmasterrace showed four Costco display PCs with conspicuously empty DIMM slots. Three systems still had GPUs visible, but the $2,600 high-end model was completely stripped. Commenters immediately recognized the pattern from 2021’s GPU scalping crisis, when retailers zip-tied cards or displayed empty cases entirely.
Employee confirmations poured in across Reddit threads. One Costco worker explained they caught an Instacart shopper on camera pulling RAM from a display unit just days earlier. The theft epidemic has spread nationwide, with multiple locations reporting identical empty slots and missing graphics cards.
AI Boom Creates Perfect Storm for Thieves
DRAM prices have exploded 200% since mid-2025 due to insatiable AI data center demand. DDR5-8800 kits now routinely cost $1,000+, while even DDR4 has doubled. This mirrors cryptocurrency mining’s 2021 GPU apocalypse, but affects lighter, easier-to-steal components perfect for quick smash-and-grabs.
Shoplifters exploit Costco’s open-case displays by simply reaching in, popping RAM latches, and walking out. High-value, low-weight components disappear in seconds. Retailers face a grim calculus: replace stolen parts repeatedly, or neuter displays entirely.
Retailers’ Desperate Anti-Theft Measures
| Component | 2021 GPU Crisis | 2026 RAM Crisis |
|---|---|---|
| GPU | Zip ties, empty cases | Often missing entirely |
| RAM | Not targeted | Completely removed |
| SSD/NVMe | Rare thefts | Presumed next target |
| PSU Cables | Wrapped/removed | Still intact (for now) |
Costco’s approach echoes pandemic-era precautions but escalates for RAM’s easier theft profile. Some locations display powered-on systems with specs taped to cases, running entirely from warehouse stock. Customers report staff openly discussing theft patterns and coordinating with security.
Why RAM Became the New Gold
Several factors converged to make memory public enemy #1:
- AI Hunger: Data centers consumed 40% of 2025 DRAM production
- Lightweight Target: 32GB DDR5 weighs ~50g, fits in pocket
- Easy Removal: Simple latch flip, no screws needed
- High Resale: eBay scalpers list stolen DDR5 at 3x MSRP
- Display Vulnerability: Open cases invite quick grabs
Thieves even disguise old DDR4 as new DDR5 using stickers, exploiting visual similarities. MicroCenter and Best Buy report identical patterns, suggesting industry-wide crisis.
Buyers Adapt to the New Reality
Costco shoppers now face a radically different purchasing experience:
- Empty slots confirm specs via printed labels only
- High-end configs ($2k+) most heavily targeted
- Staff openly discuss theft patterns with customers
- Warehouse verification required before purchase
- Some locations moved pre-builts behind counters
Reddit users report success buying RAM-stripped systems at discount, with memory installed from secure warehouse stock at checkout. However, availability shrinks daily as manufacturers prioritize enterprise over consumer.
Industry-Wide Implications
Costco’s move signals broader retail reckoning:
- Pre-built PC margins evaporate replacing stolen parts
- Customer experience suffers from neutered displays
- Online sales surge as shoppers avoid risky stores
- Component scalping migrates to physical theft
- Insurers raise premiums for electronics retailers
FAQs
Why is Costco removing RAM from display PCs?
Thieves steal memory modules directly from open motherboard slots. RAM’s high value-to-weight ratio and easy removal make it perfect for quick shoplifting.
Are GPUs also being stolen from Costco?
Yes, but less frequently since 2021 security measures. Many displays now ship without graphics cards entirely, echoing pandemic scalping prevention.
Will this affect my ability to buy a PC at Costco?
You can still purchase systems. RAM installs from secure warehouse stock at checkout. High-end configs may require verification due to theft risk.
Is RAM theft happening at other retailers?
Widespread. MicroCenter, Best Buy, and Walmart report identical patterns. Industry-wide shortages enable profitable physical scalping.
When will RAM prices and availability normalize?
Mid-2027 earliest. New fabs come online Q4 2026, but AI demand grows faster than supply ramps. Consumer RAM remains deprioritized.
Should I buy PC parts online instead?
Scalping remains rampant. Physical theft creates local shortages, but online faces same supply constraints. Enterprise buyers outbid consumers.
Are display PCs safe to purchase?
Yes, but verify components before leaving store. Costco installs from secure stock. Test systems thoroughly upon home setup.
Conclusion
Costco stripping RAM from displays reveals how deeply AI shortages warp consumer tech. Gamers once chased virtual scalpers; now thieves raid shelves in broad daylight. Retailers face impossible choices between security and sales, while buyers navigate empty slots and warehouse roulette. This crisis won’t resolve until new DRAM fabs flood the market – likely years away. Until then, that glowing empty motherboard at Costco symbolizes gaming’s new reality: even warehouse giants can’t protect against RAM raiders.