Global PC shipments rise 3.2% in Q1 as buyers rush to avoid RAM price surge

Global PC shipments rose 3.2% year‑over‑year in the first quarter of 2026, according to Counterpoint Research data cited by Engadget^[1].

The surge matters because AI‑driven workloads are increasing memory demand, prompting analysts to warn of a sharp RAM price rise – a scenario dubbed “RAMaggedon 2026.” At the same time, Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 in 2025, nudging users toward newer systems^[1].

The uptick translated to 63.3 million units shipped worldwide in Q1, a modest gain that reflects both pent‑up demand and the urgency to lock in current component costs^[1].

However, IDC projects a different outlook for the full year. Its forecast suggests PC shipments could fall as much as 8.9% in 2026 if RAM prices continue to climb, a stark contrast to the early‑quarter growth^[2].

Analysts said the buying frenzy was not limited to any single region. Counterpoint Research observed spikes in orders across North America, Europe, and Asia‑Pacific, indicating a global reaction to the perceived threat of higher RAM costs and the need for Windows 11 compatibility^[1].

Manufacturers are now balancing inventory levels with volatile component costs. Some vendors have accelerated production of higher‑RAM configurations, while others are trimming lower‑spec models to preserve margins. The mixed signals could lead to price volatility for end‑users later in the year, especially if IDC’s decline forecast materializes.

**What this means**: The early‑2026 PC boost shows how quickly consumers will act when faced with supply‑chain risks and software support deadlines. While the quarter’s growth offers a short‑term lift for manufacturers, the broader outlook remains fragile. Persistent RAM price pressure could suppress shipments for the rest of the year, prompting the industry to adapt both product portfolios and pricing strategies.