Gaming PCs will be too expensive for ordinary people by 2028 predicts report
Memory shortages threaten affordability of entry-level hardware
A new study highlights the PC market’s potential decline over the next two years, raising concerns about accessibility for average consumers. The report aligns with recent trends suggesting Sony may pivot its focus, reducing PC game porting efforts as hardware costs climb.
Recent months have seen growing concerns about the future of gaming tech, driven by a critical shortage of memory components. This scarcity, exacerbated by AI firms stockpiling RAM and SSDs for data centers, has left fewer resources for other manufacturers, potentially delaying the PlayStation 6 and next Xbox.
The tightening supply has already pushed prices higher, with fears that this situation could persist for a decade. By 2036, the report forecasts that most people might struggle to purchase new PCs, marking a significant shift in consumer access.
“This sharp increase removes vendors’ ability to absorb costs, making low-margin entry-level laptops nonviable. Ultimately, we expect the sub-$500 (about £375) entry-level PC segment to disappear by 2028,” says senior director analyst Ranjit Atwal.
Console strategies and hardware trends
By 2028, the report suggests that PC manufacturing will prioritize high-end models, sidelining budget options. This trend mirrors Microsoft’s vision for its next-gen console, which is described as a premium, curated experience. Meanwhile, Valve’s Steam Machine, though cheaper than traditional PCs, faces delays due to ongoing memory constraints, failing to offer a cost-effective alternative.
As a result, PC owners may hesitate to upgrade, altering purchase cycles. Gartner also warns that entry-level smartphones could suffer similar challenges, with users opting for used devices or extending phone lifespans. The firm predicts a 10.4% drop in global PC shipments and an 8.4% decline in smartphones, urging manufacturers to adjust pricing strategies for the first half of 2026.
Industry implications and recommendations
Experts note that the memory crisis is not just a temporary glitch but a structural issue affecting both gaming and general tech markets. Sony’s potential move to abandon PC ports aligns with this, as declining PC sales could diminish the appeal of single-player titles on that platform. Meanwhile, Microsoft’s focus on high-end consoles may position the next Xbox as a viable competitor to expensive gaming PCs.
Gartner recommends optimizing pricing to mitigate the impact of rising component costs. The report also emphasizes that even budget-friendly consoles like the Steam Machine won’t be sold at a loss, maintaining their position as a more affordable option than traditional PCs but still costly for casual buyers.
Sign up for the GameCentral newsletter to stay updated on gaming news and reviews delivered weekly. Click here to ensure Metro.co.uk stories appear first in Google Search.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy. Terms of Service apply to your information usage in line with our Privacy Policy.
