PC Prices Could Stay High Through 2027: What Buyers Should Know

PC prices may remain elevated through 2027, according to IDC's latest projections. The average selling price of PCs is forecasted to increase by 18.3% in 2026, and this trend is expected to continue even as memory supplies improve. The surge in average prices is primarily driven by rising memory costs and supply constraints, particularly in light of the growing demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure.

The third quarter of 2026 witnessed a significant decline in global PC shipments, falling by 20.1% compared to the previous year. Major manufacturers such as Lenovo, HP, and Dell all experienced notable drops in shipments, with Lenovo down 22.6%, HP down 30.9%, and Dell down 25%. This downward trend has been influenced by inventory purchases made earlier in the year, ahead of anticipated memory price increases, which shifted shipments into the first half of 2026.

IDC's projections indicate that memory shortages will persist through 2027, exerting pressure on PC prices. However, not all computers will experience price hikes due to varying configurations, inventory levels, and retailer promotions. Buyers who require immediate replacements may find it more advantageous to compare current configurations and discounts rather than waiting for potential market recovery.

On the other hand, organizations replacing multiple devices might consider postponing purchases to avoid immediate financial strain while monitoring pricing trends.

In summary, PC buyers and IT teams should weigh current discounts against their hardware requirements, security support, and replacement schedules to determine the optimal time for upgrades, keeping in mind the potential for sustained price increases through 2027.