What to know about buying a new laptop/desktop?

Are you thinking of getting a new laptop/desktop? Right now we are experiencing a MAJOR disruption to our supply of RAM chips (i.e. the stuff in a desktop/laptop that gives the processor instant storage space to perform a task….and specifically to perform multiple tasks at the same time). RAM chips are probably the most impactful piece of hardware for a computer when the end user is talking about “speed” besides the processor (i.e. brain).

A basic best practice for a laptop is to always max out the amount of RAM the motherboard can handle. RAM chips in a laptop are very customized so they will fit in that space and therefore can be expensive later in the device life when you want to upgrade because product runs have ended. Desktops use a more universal configuration and are accessible for replacement/upgrade without needing special tools therefore upgrading them during the device lifecycle is typically not a bad idea.

So what is the impact right now? Independent and small batch custom builders either cannot get RAM chips or are paying 200 – 400% increases from what we consider normal prices. Many of the newer laptops and desktops for sale are not even available with significant RAM specifications. The expectation is that RAM chip supply will meet demand, driving prices back to a more reasonable number end of 2026 or sometime 2027. If you can wait, it is recommended. If you can’t, you may just want to get a machine that you plan on only using for a couple of years and therefore don’t need to max out the RAM and can get your “real” machine after supplies recover.

Windows OS recommends 16GB RAM minimum and since you will be using more than just the Window OS, 32GB RAM is probably a smart minimum depending on what you are doing. Apple has different requirements, but they too are impacted by the supply shortage. Gamers and high-end users would typically be looking at 128GB of DDR5 model but with prices where they currently range, most are making do with 64GB or sticking with older RAM types like DDR4. Graphic card supply is impacted as well, although not as bad, therefore this issue is causing problems on that front as well.

Here are some laptop options currently available. They range in price from about $800 – $5,500. This gives you and idea of how the large RAM chip size is significantly impacting price. Keep in mind that the higher end machines also have more features so other factors are involved in the price too.

• HP 17″, 5 core Intel processor, 32 GB: https://a.co/d/01nJTjUb
• Dell 16″, 5 core Intel processor, 32 GB: https://a.co/d/0iqq0FsA
• NIMO 15″, AMD processor, 32 GB: https://a.co/d/09TPYn4w
• HP 17″, AMD processor, 64GB: https://a.co/d/0ea37Hrj
• HP 17″, 10 core Intel processor, 64GB: https://a.co/d/0biiFijB
• ASUS 13″, AMD processor, 128GB: https://a.co/d/06vOrQl1
• Lenovo 15″, 8 core Intel processor, 128GB: https://a.co/d/0dfotCuC
• Lenovo 16″, 24 core Intel processor, 128GB: https://a.co/d/0iDIJLzZ

Desktops have even greater customizable features, so you really need to know your specific use case to determine what is even a good fit. Give me a call if you want some help figuring out the “right” machine for your specific use case!