Concerns are growing that laptop prices could jump sharply over the next few quarters as rising prices for key components ripple through the market.

On March 15, IT outlet TechRadar reported that higher prices for memory (RAM) and central processing units (CPUs) are adding strain across the global supply chain. It said consumer prices could rise sharply if manufacturers try to maintain profitability.

A report by market research firm TrendForce showed that current laptop prices of about $900 could rise by as much as 40 percent.

RAM and SSDs typically account for 15 percent of laptop manufacturing costs, but recent price increases are expected to push that to 30 percent. CPU prices are also rising. Intel raised prices for some entry-level and older laptop processors by more than 15 percent. Further price hikes are expected for both low-end and high-end laptops.

If CPU and RAM prices rise at the same time, the share of system costs could increase to 58 percent from 45 percent, adding to the burden. If manufacturers and distributors keep existing margins, consumer prices could rise by up to 40 percent. Growing demand for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure is also playing a role, as high-performance computing (HPC) processor production takes priority and reduces the supply of entry-level laptop chips.

Large manufacturers are likely to secure more stable prices and supply through long-term procurement contracts, but small and mid-sized vendors are more likely to face cost pressure and shipping uncertainty. AMD is also expanding its market share in laptop processors, but it is facing shortages on some entry-level platforms.

Premium consumer laptops and business laptops could also be affected, and whether retail prices actually rise depends on manufacturers' ability to absorb costs and manage supply chains.

In this process, Apple's new low-priced laptop, the 'MacBook Neo', has also emerged as a variable. Apple set a starting price of $599 for the product. Observers say its price appeal could stand out if Windows laptops lose price competitiveness due to higher memory and CPU prices. The industry is also raising an analysis that if general-purpose laptops priced around $900 rise, the M5 MacBook Air starting at $1,099 and the $599 MacBook Neo could draw attention as alternative choices.