CPU, DRAM and SSD Now Make Up 68% of a $900 Laptop's Build Cost

Industry research shows CPUs, DRAM and SSDs accounted for about 68% of the bill of materials for a mainstream $900 notebook in Q3 2026. Laptop makers must raise prices, cut margins or reduce specs, while global notebook shipments could decline by a low single digit percentage in 2027.

• CPU, DRAM and SSD hit ~68% of a $900 laptop's build cost in Q3 2026
• Makers face three options: higher prices, lower margins or weaker specs
• Global notebook shipments may fall by a low single digit percentage in 2027
• Notebook production outside China to drop from 24% in 2025 to 21% in 2026