Upcoming Price Hike for Motherboards: ASUS, MSI, and Gigabyte Set to Increase Costs

The upward trajectory of motherboard prices has become increasingly evident, particularly as consumers grapple with the ramifications of inflation in the post-pandemic landscape.

Price Hikes Ahead: How ASUS, Gigabyte, and MSI Are Impacting Consumers

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, motherboard prices have surged dramatically. Notably, Intel motherboards have seen an average selling price increase of approximately 40%, while AMD counterparts have experienced a similar trend, with a 35% bump. As the market starts to stabilize, new reports suggest that major manufacturers may be poised to raise prices further.

According to information from Board Channels, as shared by @harukaze5719, leading Taiwanese motherboard producers, including ASUS, MSI, and Gigabyte, are anticipated to implement price increases across their new product lines. The timeline for these changes remains uncertain, but there is concern that popular current-generation motherboards, such as the AMD and Intel 800-series, will see significant price hikes.

One of the contributing factors to potential price increases is the recent extension of the US government’s exemption for graphics cards and motherboards imported from China. Once this exemption expires, manufacturers may feel compelled to adjust their pricing strategies to mitigate the impact of anticipated tariffs. Additionally, the broader trade tensions are likely to further complicate the situation, as hardware manufacturers navigate complex international supply chains.

Beyond geopolitical factors, rising production costs are affecting motherboard pricing. Innovations in technology, such as the integration of PCI-E 5.0 and USB 4.0, have increased material costs, particularly for higher-grade copper used in circuit boards. Furthermore, the escalating labor costs associated with manufacturing have compounded the financial pressures faced by these companies.

While it’s uncertain whether older motherboards will also face price increases, the possibility cannot be dismissed. Typically, such adjustments occur without official announcements from manufacturers. Currently, AMD’s AM5 and Intel’s LGA 1851 sockets represent the latest technologies, whereas Intel’s LGA 1700 continues to dominate sales. Sadly, many budget-friendly models in AMD’s 800-series are already crossing the $300 threshold, making the prospect of additional price hikes a significant concern for PC builders.

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