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Tech Product Prices Expected to Rise Amidst Tariff Uncertainty
Economists predict that consumer electronics prices, spanning from smartphones and laptops to gaming consoles and TVs, are poised to increase due to recently imposed US import duties. These tariffs have already contributed to volatility in US stock markets. The fluctuating nature of these levies, however, presents challenges in providing clear guidance to consumers regarding tech purchases.
Recent policy shifts have introduced complexity. While broad tariffs were initially paused, those targeting China have escalated to 125%. Simultaneously, exemptions for specific technology components were granted, adding uncertainty about the ultimate impact on consumer prices.
The ultimate effect of these tariffs on your next tech acquisition hinges on your specific needs. Prior to a recent tariff pause announcement, experts at FASTNET offered insights into strategic purchasing decisions, advising on whether to buy certain devices now or postpone acquisitions. Their analysis spanned a wide array of tech products including phones, earbuds, televisions, laptops, gaming consoles, smart thermostats, electric vehicles, and cameras.
A significant portion of these goods, or their essential parts like PC graphics processing units, originate from outside the US. The imposition of tariffs on these imported components is anticipated to inflate retail costs.
These tariffs extend beyond tech products, potentially impacting everyday expenses. Consumers may observe price increases in groceries such as bananas, coffee, and seafood. Clothing, shoes, and furniture, often manufactured abroad, are also likely to become more expensive. This underscores the interconnectedness of the global economy. The US administration’s objective is to incentivize domestic manufacturing through these tariffs.
Consumers not immediately requiring a new device, particularly high-value items, should avoid rushed decisions. Assessing budget suitability remains crucial. The duration of these tariffs also remains an undetermined factor.
Previous tariff implementations led to price surges in appliances like washing machines, indirectly affecting related goods like dryers.
Neale Mahoney, director at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research, emphasizes the extensive reach of these measures. “The tariffs are extensive, and their consequences will be even more widespread,” he stated, suggesting a challenging landscape for consumers.
Mahoney further cautions that price hikes may not be limited to tariffed goods. Historical examples, such as price increases in dryers following washing machine tariffs, and the rise of used car prices alongside new car prices during the pandemic, illustrate this ripple effect.
“We anticipate a period of uncertainty as the economy adjusts to what economists term a new equilibrium,” he concluded.
Mobile Devices
Phones
Even budget-friendly models like the iPhone 16E are susceptible to price increases.
While the stated aim of the tariffs is to bolster US manufacturing and sales of domestic products, Patrick Holland, managing editor for mobile at FASTNET, highlights the absence of fully US-made mainstream phones.
“Components are sourced globally,” Holland explained. “This holds true for major brands like Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi. Consequently, US-based Apple faces similar tariff disadvantages as South Korea’s Samsung.”
Holland expresses optimism that Apple might initially absorb some increased import expenses. The majority of iPhones are manufactured in China, with the remaining production also occurring overseas.
Holland advises consumers to extend the lifespan of their current phones rather than preemptively purchasing new devices to avoid potential price increases.
Other experts concur, advising against panic buying, despite forecasts of potential 10% price increases for Apple products. Stephan Shipe, CEO of Scholar Financial Advising, noted the potential for “$50 to $150 price increases on premium products like iPhone Pro Max models and MacBook Pros.”
Analysts at Rosenblatt Securities, as reported by Reuters, project significant price jumps if a 43% tariff on China is passed to consumers. They estimate the iPhone 16 could rise from $799 to $1,142, the iPhone 16 Pro Max from $1,599 to $2,300, and the iPhone 16E from $599 to $856. The Wall Street Journal has provided a component-level analysis detailing how tariffs could inflate Apple’s manufacturing costs for the iPhone 16 Pro.
Further upward pressure on prices could result from China’s recent export restrictions on rare earth elements essential for phone, EV, and electronics manufacturing.
For budget-conscious consumers concerned about tariffs and inflation impacting phone affordability, Holland recommends the Google Pixel 8A at $500. “It offers exceptional value,” he states. “I am also eager to evaluate the new Pixel 9A, launching soon.”
Smartwatches
Smartwatch pricing may remain unaffected this year, according to Vanessa Hand Orellana, lead writer for smartwatches and wearables at FASTNET. “Current reports suggest this year’s smartwatch production cycle may be insulated from tariff impacts,” she suggests. “Manufacturing for 2025 watch models is likely already finalized.”
However, she expresses concern for future production cycles, hoping for a policy reversal similar to the TikTok ban reversal to mitigate economic repercussions for businesses and consumers. Otherwise, 2026 smartwatch prices are likely to reflect tariff impacts.
Hand Orellana also advises against preemptive buying: “Stockpiling due to tariffs may lead to unnecessary accumulation of goods,” she cautions.
Headphones and Earbuds
For consumers seeking new headphones or earbuds, FASTNET executive editor David Carnoy suggests current inventory prices should remain stable.
“However, as stock depletes, prices may rise if tariffs persist. New product pricing is uncertain,” Carnoy notes.
Existing product prices should hold, but upcoming releases this year may exhibit “sticker shock.” Carnoy cites Edifier’s NeoBuds Planar as an example, initially priced at $200 but launched at $300 due to tariff-related increases.
“Companies will likely incorporate price increases at launch, as Edifier did. Prior to tariffs, we observed $10 to $20 inflationary increases on premium next-gen earbuds and headphones. We might now see $40 to $50 increases on new products,” Carnoy warns.
TVs
FASTNET senior director of content David Katzmaier suggests now is an opportune time to purchase 2024 TV models. Prices for last year’s models are currently low as retailers clear inventory for newer stock.
“New 2025 TVs are arriving in stores and online, but prices will remain elevated until fall and the holiday shopping season,” he explains.
However, for those without immediate need, Katzmaier advises delaying purchase.
“TVs are durable goods,” he states. “While tariffs could increase new TV prices, their impact on sales events like Black Friday remains unclear.”
Gaming Consoles
Nintendo Switch 2 preorders are facing delays attributed to the new tariffs.
High-End Consoles
FASTNET senior editor and gaming writer David Lumb raises the question of immediate retailer price adjustments versus applying new pricing only to newly imported inventory. He recommends purchasing sooner rather than later, within the next week or two, for budgeted purchases.
“If you want a currently available console, purchase it before the next restock, within the next few days or weeks,” Lumb suggests. “Companies are currently reassessing but still selling.”
The Nintendo Switch 2, recently announced, is also likely to be affected. Its June 5 release is anticipated, but US preorders are already delayed due to tariffs. Initially planned for April 9 with a $450 starting price, preorder commencement and potential price adjustments remain uncertain.
“For consumers interested in current consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X, purchasing now might be prudent,” Lumb advises. “Uncertainty, potential panic, or opportunism could motivate retailers to raise prices preemptively.”
Gaming PCs
Similar to laptops and phones, internal components of gaming PCs are a primary concern. “These are almost certain to face tariff-related price increases, especially as many are produced by smaller companies less equipped than major console manufacturers to absorb tariff costs,” Lumb states.
GPU pricing was already elevated, and tariffs are expected to exacerbate this.
“GPU prices have surged in recent years due to crypto mining demand and pandemic supply chain disruptions. Nvidia, a major GPU manufacturer, continually increased prices,” Lumb explains. GPU’s central role in AI further propelled Nvidia’s growth. “Further GPU price increases are likely,” he adds.
AMD indicated to FASTNET that while semiconductors are exempt from new tariffs, they are “evaluating the details and potential effects on their broader ecosystem.”
Handheld Consoles
For handheld gaming consoles like the Steam Deck and Lenovo Go S, Lumb forecasts rapid tariff-driven price increases due to these devices’ limited “institutional resilience to maintain low prices.”
“Purchasing a handheld console now is advisable,” he recommends.
Gamers intending to buy PCs or handheld gaming devices are most strongly advised to “buy now.”
Computers
Price increases are already evident from manufacturers like Acer.
Laptops and PCs
Tariffs necessitate savvy shopping to secure deals.
Matthew Elliott, senior editor for laptops and computers at FASTNET, notes, “Laptop prices have already risen due to anticipated tariffs. However, vendor sales offer opportunities to find deals with patience and diligent price monitoring.”
Tariffs are already impacting laptop prices. Acer CEO Jason Chen announced a 10% price increase in February, stating, “End-user prices will reflect the tariff. We anticipate a default 10% price increase due to import taxes.”
Shifting component sourcing to the US is unlikely to be immediately feasible for computer companies.
“Global tariffs will likely affect all computers and peripherals,” states Josh Goldman, managing editor for computers at FASTNET. “While US-based PC assemblers and component manufacturers exist, complete US sourcing is currently impractical.”
Goldman advises purchasing needed computers soon, while emphasizing bargain hunting during sales events like upcoming Memorial Day sales.
“Avoid waiting for prices to potentially become prohibitive,” Goldman recommends. “Spring tech sales events around Memorial Day, graduations, and back-to-school may offer discounts, albeit potentially less significant than in the past. Monitoring desired models should help mitigate tariff impacts.”
Used and refurbished tech devices, including laptops, may offer cost savings and environmental benefits.
However, Goldman cautions, “Sustained, drastic tariff-driven price increases on new computers could also elevate refurbished device prices due to increased demand.”
Home Tech
Smart doorbells, like Google Nest, are wise purchases now.
Tyler Lacoma, smart home and home security editor at FASTNET, recommends purchasing smart home tech now, particularly higher-end devices like security cameras, video doorbells, smart thermostats, and smart displays, especially those exceeding $200.
“Tariffs will disproportionately impact higher-priced smart home technology,” Lacoma asserts.
He cautions that no smart home device category is likely to be completely immune to tariff effects.
“Home tech devices incorporate computer chips, electronic components, and various frame materials,” he explains. “Universal tariff impact across all devices is probable.”
Cameras
For those considering a camera purchase, immediate action is advised, according to FASTNET senior writer Jeff Carlson, a photography expert and PhotoActive.co podcast co-host.
“While panic buying is discouraged, delaying a planned camera purchase in anticipation of revisions could be more expensive,” Carlson cautions.
Much camera equipment originates from Japan. Recent hopes of Japanese exemption have been dashed. Carlson noted increased traffic in camera stores, indicating consumer concern about potential price increases on Asian electronics.
“Japan’s inclusion in tariff measures validates these concerns,” Carlson concludes.
Electric Vehicles and Other Cars
Price increases may also extend to electric vehicle chargers due to new tariffs.
While widespread SUV stockpiling due to tariffs is impractical, car price increases are anticipated. Antuan Goodwin, automotive and EV expert at FASTNET, highlights that vehicles are not the only automotive items affected. Accessories like dashboard cameras and home EV chargers are also susceptible to price hikes.
“Tariffs are expected to affect automotive parts and accessories. Purchasing dash cams, portable jump starters, or EV chargers now is advisable,” Goodwin suggests.
Goodwin notes the unfavorable implications for car enthusiasts.
“Many tariffs are specifically targeted at the automotive sector, with broad impact,” he states. “Consumers should anticipate increased costs across the automotive spectrum, including domestic makes, from vehicles to components.”
Increased repair and replacement part costs for existing vehicles are also anticipated due to tariffs.