The global PC market started 2026 with better-than-expected news: worldwide shipments of computers grew by a 2.5% year-over-year in the first quarter, reaching 65.6 million units, according to preliminary data from the IDC Worldwide Quarterly Personal Computing Device Tracker. The figure confirms another quarter of growth but comes with a clear warning: pressure on memory, macroeconomic deterioration, and rising logistics costs are beginning to weigh on the sector.
IDC attributes this initial advance to three main factors: anticipation of future price hikes for components, migration related to the end of Windows 10, and the launch of new products. However, the firm also emphasizes that 2026 will be marked by shifts in market share among manufacturers and a resilience test for supply chains, especially concerning memory access.
The consultancy further notes that the conflict in the Middle East has added a new layer of volatility to the PC business, with a double impact on energy costs and transportation. IDC warns that disruptions persist in key maritime routes between Asia and EMEA, while reliance on air freight has also increased in cost, further pressuring the final price of devices.
Although the quarter closed positively, IDC does not portray an especially optimistic outlook for the coming months. In their market analysis of personal devices, also published in April, the firm had already significantly cut its annual forecast, now expecting global PC shipments to decline by 11.3% in 2026, compared to a much less negative previous forecast. The underlying reasons remain the same: memory shortages, price increases, and a more fragile supply chain.
In terms of manufacturer shares, Lenovo maintained its global leadership with 16.5 million units shipped and a 25.2% market share. HP remained in second place, although it was the only major manufacturer in the top 5 to experience a year-over-year decline. Dell gained ground with a growth of 7.7%, while Apple and especially ASUS posted solid gains, with ASUS leading growth among the top five at 17.1%.
Below is IDC’s table of the leading manufacturers in the first quarter of 2026:
| Company | Q1 2026 Shipments (millions) | Q1 2026 Share | Q1 2025 Shipments (millions) | Q1 2025 Share | Year-over-Year Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lenovo | 16.5 | 25.2% | 15.2 | 23.8% | 8.6% |
| HP Inc | 12.1 | 18.5% | 12.8 | 20.0% | -4.9% |
| Dell Technologies | 10.3 | 15.7% | 9.6 | 14.9% | 7.7% |
| Apple | 6.2 | 9.5% | 5.7 | 8.9% | 9.1% |
| ASUS | 4.8 | 7.2% | 4.1 | 6.3% | 17.1% |
| Others | 15.7 | 23.9% | 16.7 | 26.1% | -6.2% |
| Total | 65.6 | 100.0% | 64.0 | 100.0% | 2.5% |
IDC clarifies that these figures are preliminary, referring to traditional PCs —desktops, laptops, and workstations— and do not include tablets or x86 servers. They also remind that shipments include both sales to channels and end users.
The overarching picture is quite clear regarding the current sector. The market still finds support in refresh cycles and fear of further price increases, but this window may be short-lived. If memory shortages persist and logistics costs continue to rise, the growth seen between January and March could end up being more of a preventative reaction from the channel rather than the start of a sustained recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did the global PC market grow in the first quarter of 2026?
According to IDC, shipments grew by a 2.5% year-over-year and reached 65.6 million units.
Which manufacturer led the PC market in Q1 2026?
Lenovo was the top player, with 16.5 million units shipped and a 25.2% global share.
Which major manufacturer declined in the quarter?
Among the top five, HP Inc was the only one to show a decline year-over-year, with a -4.9% drop.
Does IDC expect 2026 to end positively?
Not necessarily. Despite a strong start to the year, IDC has revised its forecast downward, now expecting global PC shipments to fall by 11.3% in 2026 due to memory shortages, rising costs, and logistical tensions.
via: IDC