Why rising DDR RAM prices and chip shortages may push PC costs up

Laptops and desktops could become significantly more expensive this year as the cost of key components continues to rise.

According to a report by Moneycontrol, prices of personal computers may increase by as much as 35 percent due to rising costs of processors, graphics units and memory components.

Industry analysts cited in the report say the price pressure is largely driven by the sharp increase in DDR RAM prices and the limited availability of entry-level processors from Intel. These component shortages are expected to raise manufacturing costs for device makers, which may ultimately be passed on to consumers.

The potential price increase could affect both laptop and desktop segments across entry-level and mid-range devices.

Rising DDR RAM prices and chip shortages push PC component costs higher

Memory components are currently the biggest contributor to rising PC prices.

According to the Moneycontrol report, DDR RAM prices have increased significantly in recent months. Since memory is a core component in every PC, the rise directly impacts production costs for manufacturers.

At the same time, supply shortages of entry-level Intel processors are creating additional pressure on device makers.

Manufacturers typically absorb a portion of these increases but eventually pass some of the costs to consumers. As a result, the market could see noticeable price increases across several PC categories.

Industry observers quoted in the report say the final impact on retail pricing may vary depending on brand strategies and inventory levels. However, the broader trend suggests that consumers may soon face higher PC prices.

India's PC market growth in 2025 may slow as higher laptop prices affect demand

The expected price increase comes after a strong year for the PC market in India.

According to IDC, the Indian PC market, which includes desktops, notebooks and workstations, recorded shipments of 15.9 million units in 2025. This represented a growth of 10.2 per cent compared to the previous year.

It was also the first time that annual PC shipments in India crossed the 15-million mark, surpassing the demand peaks recorded during the pandemic years.

The momentum continued through the end of the year. Shipments reached 4.1 million units in the December quarter, marking an 18.5 percent year-on-year growth.

Among manufacturers, HP maintained the top position in the Indian PC market. Lenovo, Dell, Acer and Asus followed in the rankings, with all major vendors recording shipment growth during the year.

However, market trackers IDC and Counterpoint estimate that after the strong performance of 2025, PC shipments could decline by around 8 percent this year if higher prices begin to affect demand.

Channel View: Refurbished laptops market in India may grow

Channel partners say the price increase could change customer buying behaviour.

Devesh Rastogi, President, AISIE, said the affordability challenge could push more customers toward refurbished devices.

“The market of refurbished products is increasing. Affordability for customers will be affected, and demand, which is already down, will be further reduced.”

Pawan Waleacha, Director, PSPL Infosystems Pvt Ltd, believes manufacturer-certified refurbished devices may gain stronger traction.

“Company-certified refurbished will grow with a warranty from the brand directly. Moreover, the latest generation is available. Already, Lenovo has taken a big leap with almost 30% less certified refurbished.”

Pankaj S Shah, TechnoPlus Systems, Governing Body Member | FAIITA, said customers may begin choosing lower configurations to manage rising prices.

“Customers will now make informed choices and purchase minimum configurations suitable to their needs, as the price variation of the latest configuration is comparatively higher.”

Geopolitical risks and semiconductor supply chain pressures could affect PC prices

Beyond component shortages, geopolitical developments could also influence PC pricing.

Industry experts quoted in the report point to potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global route for energy and petrochemical supplies used in semiconductor manufacturing.

Any prolonged disruption in this region could indirectly affect semiconductor production and supply chains.

Although the impact may not be immediate, analysts say sustained disruptions could eventually influence chip availability and component pricing.

Outlook for the Indian PC market

Despite the current cost pressures, long-term demand for PCs is expected to remain stable as businesses, students and professionals continue to rely on computing devices.

However, if component costs remain elevated, the industry may see slower growth in the short term.

Higher prices, combined with changing consumer behaviour, could reshape the market, with refurbished devices, lower configurations and delayed upgrade cycles becoming more common purchasing strategies.

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