Upgrade to High-Performing PC Before Tariff Deadline: Expert-Recommended Tips for Building or Upgrading

Will Tariffs Impact Your PC Upgrades?

If you’re planning to build or upgrade your PC in the near future, you might want to consider the looming worry of President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on imported goods. The concern is that these tariffs could lead to a sharp increase in PC component prices, making it more expensive for consumers to upgrade or build their own PCs.

What are Trump’s Proposed Tariffs?

In a Fox News interview, Trump mentioned that he would impose 60% tariffs on Chinese goods, which could potentially affect the prices of PC components such as graphics cards, RAM, and CPUs. He also mentioned that he would impose 10% to 20% tariffs on foreign countries that have been "ripping us off" for years.

How Could Tariffs Affect PC Component Prices?

According to a study by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), a 46% tariff on general laptops could add an extra $357 to the retail cost. Gaming laptops equipped with discrete GPUs could see an even steeper price increase. Video game console prices could rise by almost 40%, with the PS5 Pro potentially costing almost $1,000, the Nintendo Switch OLED costing up to $490, and the Xbox Series X costing almost $700.

When Will These Possible Tariffs Be in Place?

It’s possible that Trump’s proposed tariffs could be enacted on day one of his second term, January 20, 2025. Jake Colvin, President of the National Foreign Trade Council, mentioned that if Trump decides to use executive authority to put tariffs on Chinese goods, he could probably do so on day one. However, it’s also possible that tariffs will be imposed soon after taking office, as was the case during his last term.

Tips for Upgrading Your PC Setup

If you’re looking to upgrade your PC setup, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Consider upgrading your PC components as soon as possible to avoid price hikes.
Research the components you need and read reviews to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Build or upgrade your PC yourself to save money and avoid markup prices.
Check out our extensive guides on how to build a PC and how to upgrade your PC to help you through the process.

Best Practices for Upgrading Your PC

Upgrade your CPU and motherboard together for maximum compatibility.
Consider upgrading your RAM to ensure your PC can handle demanding applications.
Choose a GPU that meets your gaming needs and budget.
Research the best power supply for your PC build.
Consider upgrading your storage to a faster SSD.

Conclusion

While the possibility of tariffs on PC components is concerning, there are still ways to upgrade your PC setup without breaking the bank. By researching the components you need, building or upgrading your PC yourself, and considering upgrading your PC components as soon as possible, you can ensure that your PC is up to date and ready for the demands of modern gaming and computing.