If you have been putting off buying a new laptop or desktop, you might want to reconsider. Prices are expected to rise by up to 35 percent this year, and the window to buy at a reasonable price is closing fast.
The culprit? Skyrocketing RAM prices and a shortage of entry-level Intel processors. RAM prices have already increased by 2.5 to 3 times, resulting in a 10 to 12 percent rise in laptop and desktop prices. Prices are expected to rise 8 to 10 percent in March, with another 10 percent increase likely over the following months.
Add to that the current disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, which is already pushing up crude oil prices, and energy and transportation costs are also expected to rise dramatically.
Why are prices rising?
A significant factor in this price hike is the burgeoning demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure. As companies and developers scramble to build AI systems, the increased demand for memory is diverting resources toward high-margin server components. This results in a shortage of RAM and NAND memory for regular PCs and laptops, thereby driving up costs globally.
According to TrendForce, the share of memory components in the total build cost of a laptop, which was once around 15%, is projected to cross 30% by early 2026. This effectively means that manufacturers are now paying significantly more for the components necessary to assemble laptops, translating to higher consumer prices.
Christian Cawley / Digital Trends
Experts from IDC and Counterpoint Research indicate that the situation may not improve until the second half of 2027. As the costs of components and transportation continue to soar, they forecast a 7 to 8 percent decline in shipments for 2026, as increasingly high prices dissuade potential buyers from making purchases.
Should you buy a laptop or PC right now?
Many brands are attempting to ease this financial burden through financing schemes and promotional offers; however, analysts suggest these measures may not be sufficient to offset the impending costs. Both small and large businesses are already expediting their upgrade cycles to avoid what has been colloquially termed the “RAM tax.”
If you’re in the market for a new PC, the short answer is a resounding yes. With the recent launch of the MacBook Neo, Apple’s first affordable option in its lineup, combined with competitive discounts from various PC brands, now is an opportune time to make a purchase. Buy now, or prepare yourself for an inflated price tag in the near future.
For more insights on this topic, you can read the full article Here.
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