It’s Not Just RAM: Windows Licenses Are Also Pushing Up PC Prices

The cost of Windows licenses for computer manufacturers is increasing by up to 10%, according to reports from Taiwan's Economic Daily News. This surge in licensing fees could push up the prices of PCs by around 5% over the next quarter. As PC makers purchase Windows licenses in bulk, they currently enjoy a substantial discount compared to what consumers would pay for a new copy of Windows 11.

However, with existing cost pressures from other hardware components, such as RAM and storage devices, a significant Windows 11 price hike may lead manufacturers to pass some of the added expense onto consumers. Microsoft has not commented on the report. The Economic Daily News article cites information from an unnamed PC brand executive, who states that Microsoft typically raises licensing costs by single-digit percentages yearly, but this year, the increase has reached 7% to 10%.

PC manufacturers like Asus and Acer have already confirmed PC price increases this year, with Asus reporting a 30% price hike for Taiwan. Framework, a laptop maker, also cited "an increase in Windows license costs" as a reason for price hikes on its laptops. Windows 10 users received Windows 11 for free as an upgrade, while consumers who are not OEM manufacturers pay $139 for the Home version and $200 for the Pro version.