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 big chunk of the problem is artificial intelligence. The surge in AI infrastructure demand is pulling memory supply toward high-margin server components, leaving less supply for regular PCs and laptops. This is driving up the cost of DRAM and NAND memory globally, which will ultimately be reflected in your bill.
According to TrendForce, memory components that once made up 15% of a laptop’s total build cost are now projected to cross 30% by early 2026, effectively doubling their share of what manufacturers pay to build your laptop.
Analysts from IDC and Counterpoint Research don’t expect prices to ease until the second half of 2027. Thanks to the increasing cost of components and transportation, analysts expect shipments to decline by 7 to 8 percent in 2026, as rising prices start to discourage purchases.
Should you buy a laptop or PC right now?
Brands are trying to soften the blow with financing schemes and promotional offers, but analysts warn that these measures may not be enough to offset the rising costs. Small and large businesses are already expediting their upgrade cycle to avoid paying the RAM tax.
If you need a new PC, the short answer is yes. With the launch of the MacBook Neo, Apple’s first-ever low-cost MacBook, and PC brands offering discounts to stay competitive amid volatile RAM prices, it is the perfect time to buy one right now. Buy now, or brace yourself for an inflated price tag later.
