The global market for client processors (client CPUs) has for the first time in years experienced two consecutive quarters of growth, breaking usual seasonal trends. According to data from Jon Peddie Research (JPR), in the second quarter of 2025, PC CPU shipments increased by 7.9% compared to the previous quarter and by 13% year-over-year, while server processors saw a 22% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
The most notable aspect is that both the first and second quarters of 2025—traditionally flat or declining—ended on a positive note. “We believe this upturn is mainly due to early purchasing driven by the impending new tariffs and, to a lesser extent, the growing demand for AI PCs,” explains Dr. Jon Peddie, president of JPR.
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Client CPUs: Laptops Slightly Down, Desktops Rising
Data shows a gradual change in distribution within the client processor segment (desktop PCs and laptops):
- Q2 2024: 76% laptops, 24% desktops.
- Q1 2025: 71% laptops, 29% desktops.
- Q2 2025: 67% laptops, 33% desktops.
In absolute terms, total CPU shipments increased from approximately 57 million in Q2 2024 to 68 million in Q2 2025, driven by device upgrades and demand in sectors that require higher power for AI applications and advanced graphics.
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Server CPUs: Stable Market Share, Strong Volume Growth
The server processor market continues to be dominated by Intel, although AMD maintains a steady quarter with a quarter-market share of about 27%:
- Q2 2024: 75% Intel, 25% AMD.
- Q1 2025: 73% Intel, 27% AMD.
- Q2 2025: 73% Intel, 27% AMD.
Despite this stable market share, total volume increased significantly due to higher demand from data centers, cloud computing environments, and generative AI services. Year-over-year CPU server shipments rose by 22%.
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Factors Explaining the Growth
- Early purchases due to tariffs: Several manufacturers and assemblers reportedly accelerated CPU procurement to avoid the impact of tariffs scheduled for the second half of 2025.
- Rising AI PC market: Although its impact remains limited, the arrival of hardware optimized for AI (AI PCs) is beginning to boost demand for more powerful CPUs with advanced integrated GPU capabilities.
- Expansion of cloud and AI infrastructure: Data centers are upgrading and expanding their capacity to support workloads in AI, big data, and cloud computing, fueling sales of high-performance server CPUs.
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Outlook for the Second Half of 2025
The challenge now is to sustain growth amid potential factors such as:
- Actual impact of tariffs: Following early procurement, there may be adjustments in volumes.
- Demand for AI PCs: If mass adoption accelerates, it could sustain growth, especially for desktops and workstations.
- Server competition: With the rise of ARM architectures and specialized AI solutions, both Intel and AMD will need to defend their market share.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why is it unusual for Q1 and Q2 to see growth in CPUs?
Because seasonally, the first quarter is usually flat or slightly declining, and the second quarter tends to fall due to demand seasonality for PCs. - What are AI PCs, and why are they boosting CPU sales?
They are systems designed to execute AI tasks locally, with CPUs and NPUs optimized for AI, increasing demand for more powerful processors. - Is AMD gaining market share in servers?
Over the past year, AMD has maintained a steady share around 27%, but overall market growth benefits its total sales volume. - Could this growth continue into 2026?
It depends on factors like widespread adoption of AI PCs, data center demand evolution, and the impact of tariffs on supply chains.
via: jonpeddie