Why PC Prices Are Going Up (Research From Dell & Others)

If you’re considering buying a new laptop or desktop, now might be the time. Dell and some other major PC makers are planning price hikes soon, due to rising memory and component costs. 

What’s Causing the Price Surge

• Memory-chip shortage: The global demand for DRAM and NAND memory, fueled largely by AI infrastructure and data-center expansion, has spiked. That’s pushed up the cost of critical components used in laptops and desktops. 

• Component cost inflation across the board: Not just RAM, SSDs, storage, and other hardware parts are also becoming costlier due to tight supply and increased demand.

• OEMs adjusting prices to stay profitable: Dell’s leadership has publicly acknowledged the “unprecedented” rise in memory-chip costs and signalled that price increases across their PC lineup are coming. 

What the Price Hike Looks Like

• Dell (and some peers) are expected to raise PC and laptop prices by around 15–20%. 

• The increases could hit as early as mid-December 2025 for Dell’s PC portfolio.

• Some reports suggest more severe inflation for high-spec or premium machines, potentially up to 20% or more. 

If You’re Hunting for a New PC

• Consider buying now, not later - If you need a new PC soon, pre-holiday 2025 could offer the most value before hikes.

• Lock in quotes if buying through business/enterprise channels - Dell and others reportedly are expiring old quotes by early 2026. 

• Prioritize what you need - Avoid overspending on “over-spec’d” machines if you don’t need it; memory, storage, CPU specs all matter more than brand or extras right now.

• Check availability & stock - Some configurations may become harder to find if supply constraints worsen.

• Consider refurbished or older systems - As new PCs get pricier, certified refurbished or previous-generation machines may offer better value.

Get them now!

The PC market is undergoing a “memory crunch.” What started as a component shortage, driven by high demand from AI data-centers, is now hitting end-user laptops and desktops in the form of price increases. 

For consumers, this means: if you’ve been eyeing a new Dell laptop or desktop, now is possibly the best time to buy before prices go up. Waiting could cost you, not just in sticker price, but in reduced configurations or fewer deals.