In 2024, the personal computer (PC) market experienced modest growth, influenced by factors such as hardware refresh cycles and the impending end of support for Windows 10.
Market Performance:
- Overall Growth: According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), global PC shipments reached 262.7 million units in 2024, marking a 1% increase from 2023.
- Quarterly Insights: The fourth quarter of 2024 saw a 1.8% year-over-year growth, with shipments totaling 68.9 million units.
Influencing Factors:
- Windows 10 End-of-Support: The scheduled end of support for Windows 10 in October 2025 prompted enterprises to upgrade their hardware to ensure compatibility with newer operating systems, thereby driving PC demand.
- Hardware Refresh Cycles: Businesses and consumers engaged in regular hardware refresh cycles, replacing outdated equipment to maintain efficiency and security.
Future Outlook:
Analysts anticipate that the PC market will continue to grow in 2025, primarily driven by commercial demand as organizations prepare for the Windows 10 end-of-support deadline. This scenario is expected to lead to a significant increase in PC upgrades and replacements.
In summary, the combination of scheduled software support conclusions and routine hardware updates contributed to the PC market’s growth in 2024, with expectations of continued expansion in the coming year.
