RAM filler kit without actual memory costs almost as much as 32GB DDR4 a year ago

Anyone with a transparent PC case and an interest in case modding and lighting effects will generally want the components inside to look good as well. This has led to the introduction of so-called filler modules. As ComputerBase reports, they are also available in 1+1 kits that pair an attractively designed RAM module with a matching dummy module. V-Color's dummy has the same PCB, heat spreader and lighting effects, but no memory chips.

This is not a scam, as might have been assumed a few years ago, but entirely intentional. It offers an option for users who care about aesthetics but cannot afford to fill every RAM slot with functional modules. Given current prices amid the memory shortage, that is hardly surprising.

Complete filler kits are also available. V-Color offers a two-pack of non-memory memory modules for DDR5 slots, which the manufacturer calls "Non-DRAM." The kit has an official MSRP of around $70. That means these stylish DDR5 modules cost almost as much as a 32GB DDR4 kit comprising two 16GB modules did just over a year ago, albeit without the attractive colors and lighting effects. In July 2025, DDR5 kits with the same capacity were slightly more expensive at roughly $80 to $90. Adding RGB pushed prices above $100. Prices naturally also varied depending on timings and overclocking capabilities.

Nevertheless, this illustrates the severity of the memory shortage. Just over a year ago, buyers could simply purchase another pair of RAM modules to fill all four slots. Memory has now become so expensive that selling unpopulated PCBs is financially viable.

There are some compromises, however. V-Color explicitly warns on its website against installing the DIMMs in AMD systems, as they are only compatible with Intel chipsets. They may also be used only alongside certain V-Color DIMMs containing actual memory. Mixing them with RAM from other manufacturers is not supported, although anyone buying them for aesthetic reasons would probably avoid that anyway.