If you plan to build or upgrade a PC, it's best to do it now before potential tariffs come into effect next year.
The prices of high-end GPUs could increase by up to 40%.
People planning to build their first PC or upgrade their current setup should consider doing so soon, as there could be significant changes in component prices in the coming months. One of the main concerns is the possible implementation of tariffs imposed by elected President Donald Trump, whose promises during the electoral campaign could affect the cost of tech products starting from his second term in 2025.
Although a candidate's promises do not always turn into effective policies, Trump's past experience suggests that tariffs could raise prices on essential components, including graphics cards and DDR5 RAM. During an interview, Trump hinted that tariffs on Chinese goods could be as high as 60% or more, and at a rally, he mentioned that general tariffs could fluctuate between 10% and 20%.
A study by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) indicates that the prices of high-performance GPUs could experience a notable increase, with examples suggesting that a $900 graphics card could rise to $1,300, representing a 40% increase. Other PC components, such as DRAM memory and SSDs, would also see price hikes, given that a large portion of these products is imported from Asian countries.
Claims that consumers would not be responsible for these tariffs are contradicted by the CTA's vice president of international trade, who emphasizes that tariffs are regressive taxes that Americans will have to pay, and that most of the cost of previous tariffs has been passed on to consumers.
The impact of these tariffs is not limited to PCs; prices for laptops, peripherals, and gaming consoles are also expected to be affected. For example, accessories could see a 10.9% increase, while general laptops could experience a 46% rise. The prices of gaming consoles, such as the PS5 and Nintendo Switch, could also see significant increases.
As for when these tariffs might be implemented, there is a possibility they could take effect from the very first day of Trump’s new term on January 20, 2025. Some analysts suggest that the tariffs may be put in place shortly after he takes office, so those interested in upgrading their PCs should act as soon as possible.
For those seeking guidance on how to start building or upgrading their computer, there are detailed guides and lists of recommended tested components that can assist in the process.
