💾 DRAM vs NAND｜SK hynix 2024 Business Breakdown

"What’s the difference between DRAM and NAND?"
"Which one sold more and made more profit?"
"Why is SK hynix getting so much attention worldwide?"
If you’re wondering, this article will explain everything clearly!

✅ First Things First: What’s the Difference Between DRAM and NAND?

Type	DRAM	NAND
Purpose	Fast data processing (speed-oriented)	Data storage (capacity-oriented)
Examples	PC memory, server RAM, smartphone RAM	Phone storage, USBs, SSDs
Characteristic	Loses data when power is off	Retains data even when power is off

📊 How Did SK hynix’s DRAM Business Perform in 2024?

📌 DRAM Remains the Core Business

SK hynix is traditionally strong in DRAM production.
In 2024, DRAM continued to drive most of the company’s revenue.

📈 AI Boom Drove High-Performance DRAM Demand

AI servers and data centers need massive DRAM power.
High-speed DRAMs like DDR5 and HBM were in high demand.
Major AI clients like NVIDIA significantly increased orders for HBM.

💰 DRAM Key Highlights

DRAM shipments grew over 50% year-over-year
DDR5 and HBM led sales growth
Profitability improved thanks to high-value product mix

💾 What About the NAND Business?

📌 From Struggle in 2023 to Recovery in 2024

NAND faced major losses until 2023 due to price drops.
But in 2024, SK hynix shifted strategy and turned the business profitable.

🔁 Strategy Shift: From Low-End to High-Value

Focused on enterprise SSDs instead of consumer NAND
Shifted to high-performance, high-margin products

💰 NAND Key Highlights

NAND revenue more than tripled in 2024
Turned from loss to profit
Increased market share while stabilizing prices

📉 DRAM and NAND Price Trends

DRAM

Prices stayed low in early 2024
HBM shortages led to rising prices in the second half