A new study by IDC shows an increase in desktop PC and laptop sales in North America compared to Q1 2024, likely due to US tariff uncertainty. Manufacturers have warned consumers about possible shortages, leading to panic buying.
The study reveals a 26.9% surge in laptop sales and a 35.3% rise in desktop sales since the implementation of US tariffs. This spike can be attributed to fear that prices may skyrocket or sales may pause, as seen with Razer’s halted laptop sales due to US tariffs.
With a 90-day pause on larger tariffs still active and a 10% base tariff on imports remaining, uncertainty surrounds whether this will be lifted. As most PC hardware manufacturing takes place in China, with tariffs reaching up to 145%, the market is bracing for potential disruptions.
Considering the current demand for PC hardware at an all-time high, it’s advisable to buy what you need now while prices are stable. However, avoiding overpriced products is crucial. While GPUs have seen significantly high prices, pre-built desktops and laptops have been relatively affordable.
Given the uncertainty surrounding tariffs, now might be the best time to grab any appealing hardware deals on PC components or devices. With the possibility of further disruptions looming, acting quickly could save you from paying inflated prices in the future.
Source: https://www.techradar.com/computing/desktop-pcs/tariffs-could-further-disrupt-the-stability-of-the-pc-hardware-market-and-this-new-study-suggests-its-best-to-buy-right-now