If you’re thinking about building or upgrading your PC, now is the time to do it. With potential tariffs on the horizon, prices for PC components could rise sharply next year.
Here’s why you should consider making your purchase sooner rather than later.
What Are the Proposed Tariffs?
President-elect Donald Trump has promised higher tariffs on goods from countries like China. In a February interview, he hinted at tariffs as high as 60%.
This could affect everything from graphics cards to RAM, making your PC build more expensive. While tariffs may not be immediate, there’s a chance they could be enforced soon after he takes office in January 2025.
How Tariffs Could Affect PC Prices
Tariffs would likely increase the price of high-performance components, especially GPUs. For example, a $900 graphics card could rise to $1,300, a 40% price increase.
Other components like DRAM and SSDs, which rely on parts from countries like China, could also become more expensive.
Other Affected Products
It’s not just PC components that could see a price hike. Gaming laptops, accessories, and even consoles could get more expensive.
A gaming laptop might cost an extra $357, and video game consoles like the PS5 could rise by 40%. This means you might be paying nearly $1,000 for a PS5 Pro.
When Will Tariffs Be Imposed?
If tariffs are enacted, they could take effect on January 20, 2025, when Trump starts his second term. Experts suggest tariffs may come soon after he takes office, so it’s smart to buy your PC components before that happens.
Tips for Upgrading Your PC
If you’re ready to build or upgrade your PC, now’s the time. Check out guides on how to build or upgrade your PC and see which components will give you the best performance for your budget.
With tariffs potentially raising prices, upgrading sooner rather than later could save you a lot of money.
