PC market posts modest growth in early 2026 despite memory shortages and economic strain

IDC said global PC shipments reached 65.6 million units in Q1 2026, up 2.5% year over year.

Growth was lifted by pre-buying ahead of memory price hikes, Windows 10 upgrades, and new product launches.

But softer macro conditions, higher component and freight costs, and Middle East shipping disruptions are cooling demand.

IDC warned that vendors with stronger memory access and supply chains could gain market share as pressure builds.