High-Capacitance MLCC Shortage: Supply Outlook Through the First Half of 2027

2026-11-02

A more selective MLCC market

High-capacitance MLCCs are expected to remain tight through the first half of 2027, but the market is not short across the board. Demand for the high-capacitance and advanced MLCCs used in AI servers and data-center equipment remains strong, while some consumer-grade categories are softer. As a result, availability and pricing can differ widely from one part number to the next.

In its October 29, 2026 industry update, TrendForce reported that the shift from AI model training toward inference and AI-agent applications is raising demand for CPUs and DDR5 memory. Each of these platforms needs additional high-capacitance MLCCs around the motherboard and memory modules. TrendForce expects the high-end MLCC shortage to continue through the first half of 2027, with ODMs anticipating the first and second quarters of 2027 as the tightest period.

What is driving high-capacitance MLCC demand?

1. AI servers and data centers

AI servers need stable power delivery to processors, accelerators, memory and voltage-regulator circuits. MLCCs are widely used in these designs for decoupling, filtering and voltage stabilization. As server platforms become more powerful, demand rises for selected high-capacitance, high-performance MLCCs.

2. Growing demand for CPU and DDR5 platforms

As AI inference expands, demand for CPUs and DDR5 memory grows with it. Every additional CPU motherboard and memory module adds MLCC requirements, increasing pressure on selected high-capacitance specifications.

3. Capacity shifts among manufacturers

TrendForce also reports that some Japanese and Korean MLCC manufacturers are reallocating capacity toward advanced products for AI and other higher-value applications. Murata, for example, announced on September 10 that it would discontinue certain general-purpose consumer GRM types and some automotive-grade components. This may tighten availability of some conventional and mid- to high-capacitance products and increase the role of qualified alternative suppliers.

Not every MLCC category is experiencing the same conditions

The market is not experiencing a uniform shortage. TrendForce reported that spot prices for low- to mid-capacitance MLCCs fell by about 5% in early October before stabilizing, while supply remained tight for AI-grade MLCCs and for certain communication MLCCs used in optical modules. Buyers should therefore assess supply part number by part number rather than rely on broad market statements.

What should buyers do now?

• Identify production-critical parts. Prioritize MLCCs whose delay could interrupt production, and review capacitance, rated voltage, case size, dielectric, tolerance and operating temperature.
• Share complete specifications. Provide the original part number and datasheet, and state clearly whether automotive qualification (such as AEC-Q200), soft termination or other special requirements are mandatory.
• Evaluate alternatives early. A cross-reference list helps identify candidates, but it is not approval to replace a part. Compare electrical, mechanical and reliability requirements, and obtain end-customer approval where required.
• Plan with realistic demand information. Separate firm orders from forecasts and share expected annual usage. Early communication gives suppliers more time to review material availability and production schedules.

Hongda Capacitors MLCC cross-reference

Hongda Capacitors provides an MLCC cross-reference chart that maps HLC standard MLCCs to comparable part numbers from manufacturers including AVX, KEMET, Murata, Samsung, TDK, Taiyo Yuden, Vishay/Vitramon and Yageo. Buyers can use it as a starting point when reviewing alternative sourcing options.

Hongda Capacitors MLCC cross-reference chart

Important: Cross-reference information is for preliminary evaluation only, and similar part numbers do not guarantee full interchangeability. Before approving a replacement, please verify the latest datasheets, dimensions, electrical characteristics, operating conditions and customer qualification requirements.

Hongda Capacitors HLC Standard MLCC datasheet

For available case sizes, capacitance ranges and rated voltages, please refer to the official HLC Standard MLCC datasheet:

Download HLC Standard MLCC Datasheet (PDF)

How Hongda Capacitors can support your sourcing

Hongda Capacitors manufactures passive electronic components, including standard MLCCs, High-Q MLCCs, tantalum capacitors, aluminum electrolytic capacitors and inductors. Our HLC standard MLCC range covers multiple case sizes and voltage ratings. Our website lists lead times of around two weeks for regular items; actual lead time depends on the part number and order quantity.

MLCC supply update and sourcing support from Hongda Capacitors.

If you have urgent or upcoming MLCC requirements, please send us the part numbers, specifications, quantities and target delivery dates. Our team will review them and advise on available options.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the high-capacitance MLCC shortage expected to last?

TrendForce expects the high-end MLCC gap to continue through the first half of 2027, with the first and second quarters of 2027 seen as the tightest period. Actual availability still depends on the exact specification.

Are all MLCCs in short supply?

No. Supply conditions vary by specification. High-capacitance and AI-grade MLCCs face more pressure than some low- and mid-capacitance products.

Can a cross-reference part be used as a direct replacement?

Not automatically. The full electrical and mechanical specifications, application conditions and customer qualification requirements must be checked first.

What information should I include in an MLCC inquiry?

Please provide the original part number, annual usage, order quantity, application, required delivery date and any special requirements, such as AEC-Q200 or soft termination.

Contact

Max Zhou

Email: max@hongdacap.com.hk

WhatsApp: +86 181 8883 0464