PCB shortage and rising material costs could increase hardware prices

An industry report says demand from AI data centers is causing a shortage of printed circuit boards (PCBs), which could increase production costs for consumer electronics like graphics cards, motherboards, laptops, and desktop computers. Some suppliers are reportedly quoting delivery lead times of up to 30 months. A vendor indicated that current requests might face fulfillment delays extending into the final months of 2028.

Image: Digital Citizen

The report also notes that the cost of copper clad laminate (CCL), an essential material for making PCBs, has risen. Suppliers have reportedly increased CCL prices approximately 12 times since July 2026. An executive for an American PC manufacturer reportedly acknowledged difficulties in obtaining enough PCB supplies, even though PC shipments may decline in 2027.

The findings do not confirm that every manufacturing facility is fully reserved through 2030, nor do they offer precise projections regarding potential retail price hikes for specific devices. Final price impacts will depend on manufacturing capacity, product complexity, supplier agreements, and how much cost manufacturers choose to absorb. The report does not confirm the exact duration or severity of the shortage.