Laptop and Desktop Prices Set to Surge by Up to 35% This Year
Consumers in India planning to purchase a new laptop or desktop computer may need to brace for significant price increases this year. Industry analysts project that the cost of key hardware components—including processors, memory modules, and graphics cards—could drive overall device prices up by as much as 35 percent. This upward trend is expected to persist into 2027, placing additional strain on budget-conscious buyers.
According to market reports, prices have already climbed by approximately 10 to 12 percent in recent months, with further acceleration anticipated in the near term. The impact is being felt most acutely in the entry-level segment, where affordability is a primary concern for many households and students.
Further Price Hikes Expected in March
Market analysts indicate that another round of price increases is likely to occur during March, potentially adding 8 to 10 percent to the cost of laptops and desktops. The primary driver behind this surge is the soaring price of RAM, which has risen by roughly 2.5 to 3 times over the past year. This has a direct effect on the pricing of basic computers.
For example, laptops that were previously available in the range of 30,000 to 35,000 rupees may now cost close to 45,000 rupees. This represents a substantial jump for consumers who rely on affordable computing devices for work, education, and daily tasks.
Rising Demand for AI Infrastructure Drives Component Costs
Experts attribute the escalating cost of memory chips—such as DRAM and NAND flash memory—to the explosive growth in artificial intelligence infrastructure. Many technology companies are now prioritizing the production of high-margin servers and high-bandwidth memory solutions, which are essential for AI workloads. This shift in manufacturing focus has disrupted the supply of components used in standard consumer laptops.
As a result, the availability of affordable memory and storage options for personal computers has tightened, pushing prices upward. The trend is unlikely to reverse in the short term, as AI-related demand continues to expand globally.
Geopolitical Tensions Add to Supply Chain Pressures
Industry observers also point to rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz as a potential factor affecting supply chains. This critical waterway is vital for the transportation of energy and petrochemical products. A prolonged disruption in this region could increase the cost of semiconductor manufacturing, further compounding the price pressures on electronic components.
While the situation remains fluid, any sustained instability in the Middle East has the potential to ripple through global technology supply chains, affecting everything from raw materials to finished products.
Market Demand Expected to Weaken
Last year, India’s PC market reached record sales levels. However, the current wave of price increases is expected to dampen consumer demand. Analysts forecast a possible decline of 7 to 8 percent in the overall market this year, as higher prices discourage potential buyers.
In response, manufacturers and retailers are introducing various incentives to maintain consumer interest. These include:
- Easy monthly installment (EMI) plans
- Financing schemes with low or zero interest
- Promotional offers and bundle deals
Despite these efforts, experts advise that anyone planning to purchase a new laptop or desktop should consider doing so sooner rather than later. With prices expected to rise further in the coming months, acting now could result in significant savings.
