SK Hynix Sets Premium Pricing for HBM4 as It Becomes First Supplier to NVIDIA’s Rubin AI GPUs
SK Hynix has reportedly begun supplying its next-generation HBM4 memory to NVIDIA at a significant premium, setting the stage for a new phase in AI computing and solidifying its dominance in the high-bandwidth memory market. According to a report from Chosun Biz, SK Hynix’s pricing for its 12-layer HBM4 modules has reached the $500 range, which is 60–70% higher than HBM3E, previously priced around $300 per stack.
This significant price increase stems from multiple factors chiefly the use of TSMC’s advanced 4nm process node for the base logic die and the high complexity involved in manufacturing HBM4. The new memory integrates logic and semiconductor components in a single package, which is expected to play a key role in fueling the demands of next-gen AI GPUs.
NVIDIA, currently transitioning toward its Rubin AI GPU architecture, is already utilizing HBM4 from SK Hynix. This positions the South Korean company as a crucial supplier, not only because of its early capability to deliver HBM4, but also due to its exclusive handling of 12-Hi HBM3E stacks used in NVIDIA’s Blackwell Ultra lineup. That exclusivity has given SK Hynix a strong negotiating position in setting higher price points for HBM4.
Despite this early lead, SK Hynix’s premium pricing could open the door for Samsung and Micron to compete more aggressively. Samsung has made major strides with its 1c DRAM node and, given its vertical integration in semiconductors, could soon emerge as a credible alternative in NVIDIA’s AI supply chain. Meanwhile, Micron continues to scale its HBM roadmap with a focus on performance and yield.
As SK Hynix capitalizes on its first-mover advantage, the HBM4 battleground is heating up, with each manufacturer aiming to align with the rapid scaling of AI and HPC requirements. In this high-stakes race, pricing, reliability, and innovation will be key to maintaining long-term market share.
What do you think can Samsung or Micron close the gap on SK Hynix in the HBM4 race? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
