Laptop Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Traditional Laptop, 2-in-1 Laptop, Gaming Laptops), By Operating System (Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, Linux), By Screen Size (Up to 10.9”, 11” to 12.9”, 13” to 14.9”, 15.0” to 16.9”, More than 17”), By Price (Up to USD 500, USD 501 to USD 1000, USD 1001 to USD 1500, USD 1501 to USD 2000, Above USD 2001), By Applications (Personal, Business, Gaming) and By Region(North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, LATAM) Forecasts, 2024-2032

Laptop Market Size

The global laptop market size was valued at USD 127.62 billion in 2023. It is expected to reach USD 164.08 billion in 2032, growing at a CAGR of 3.2% over the forecast period (2024-32). The shift towards remote work arrangements and telecommuting, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has increased demand for laptops. Professionals require portable computing devices for work-from-home setups, video conferencing, collaboration, and productivity tasks.

A laptop is a small, portable personal computer that can be used in a variety of situations. Most laptops are made to do all of a desktop computer's functions, so they can typically run the same programs and access the same kinds of files. However, laptops also frequently cost more than equivalent desktop computers. Although 2-in-1 PCs with a detachable keyboard are commonly marketed as laptops or as having a "laptop mode," laptops typically have a clamshell form factor with the screen mounted on the inside of the upper lid, and the keyboard mounted on the inside of the lower lid.

The laptop market is constantly expanding due to increased disposable incomes, an ever-expanding internet infrastructure, and consumers' preference for advanced laptops regarding system performance and design. Additionally, the expanding price-performance ratio and longer hardware life have increased the popularity of laptops among consumers, particularly in emerging nations like India and Japan.

Laptop Market Growth Factors

Launch of latest laptop models

Laptops are frequently used for business, pleasure, entertainment, and educational purposes. In the upcoming years, it is anticipated that the demand for laptops will grow gradually and steadily. Increased replacement sales and the availability of new, cutting-edge models are credited with this growth. When a new upgrade is introduced, the technology quickly becomes outdated. The most recent laptop model may degrade after a year, forcing buyers to search for cutting-edge models with better features and capabilities. Due to the availability of models with powerful processing and computing capabilities, high-end laptops explicitly designed for gaming applications are also becoming more and more popular. The increasing use of the internet has positively impacted the expansion of the gaming industry.

The Microsoft Corporation estimates that more than 2 billion avid gamers worldwide. More than 18 months veterans of gaming are twice as likely to use a laptop than any other device. Laptops like the Alienware 17 have been made specifically for gaming by manufacturers like Dell, Inc. In addition, it is anticipated that the development of virtual reality headsets and their uses in gaming will spur consumer demand for high-end laptops throughout the forecast period. The market has shifted away from PCs to laptops in recent years due to shifting consumer preferences. Laptops are growing, particularly among business professionals, because they provide greater mobility flexibility than traditional PCs. Incorporating new features into laptops, such as touchscreen displays, built-in Wi-Fi, high-definition displays, and wide-area wireless technologies, has sparked interest among the younger population.

Laptop Market Restraining Factors

Growing popularity of smartphones and tablets

The demand for laptops is negatively impacted by the increasing popularity of smartphones and tablets. Due to the size advantages afforded by smartphones without considerable application compromise, consumers are choosing them over computers. For instance, just like laptops, smartphones are increasingly used for personal and professional purposes. Smartphones have several advantages over computers in terms of portability (ability to be carried) and advanced capabilities, including clear voice and text communication, mobile payments, and location-based advertising. However, the development of thin, lightweight, and feature-rich hybrid laptops has helped workers bring devices to the office more conveniently, reducing the impact of this difficulty.

Laptop Market Opportunities

Rising adoption of technology in the education system

Globally, education is being significantly impacted by digital change. The way that education and training are delivered is undergoing a fundamental shift. The appeal of digital classrooms for pupils is vital. Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD), artificial intelligence (AI), and personalized learning are developing concepts that have altered how people teach, learn, and administer assessments. These technologies are changing the educational landscape through immersive learning experiences, more interactive learning, and increased visual and technological potential.

Children can learn thanks to the use of smart technologies like smartboards and smart desks interactively. Through visual presentations and analytical approaches, these technologies rethink the learning and teaching environments using laptops as a medium. Additionally, the growing importance of interactive projection systems has persuaded teachers to employ laptops in their classrooms. The teaching and learning process is enhanced via interactive projection—innovative learning paradigms aid kids in developing their logical and analytical mindsets. Thus, the continuing developments in digital learning may provide a much-needed boost for the declining global sales of laptops.

Laptop Market Regional Analysis

Asia-pacific: dominant region with growth rate 5.90% (cagr)

Asia-Pacific is the most significant shareholder in the global laptop market and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.90% during the forecast period. Over the projection period, sales of the gadget are anticipated to increase at the highest CAGR in the Asia-Pacific. Government initiatives to lower import taxes on spare parts are expected to favor this sector. Additionally, rising government programs like Make in India, Made in China 2025, Digital India, and increasing foreign direct investments in retail and e-commerce are projected to enhance laptop sales in the region.

Europe is the most significant revenue contributor and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.80% during the forecast period. As part of a three-year e-Schools pilot project, the EU worked with the Croatian Academic and Research Network (CARNET) to give over 6,000 students and 920 teachers access to laptops, tablets, and presentation devices, as well as better connectivity. The demand for laptops with cutting-edge features, the most recent hardware and software, improved portability, and contemporary designs are rising. Demand is also driven by an increase in demand for ultra-thin, light laptops with new-generation processors. The region's market is expanding due to rising mergers between well-known companies, elite universities and corporations, and high disposable income.

Due to increased disposable income in the region, Latin America and the Middle East and Africa are also anticipated to advance at favorable growth rates during the projected period. Regional markets are expected to increase due to improved internet infrastructure and government regulations supporting a digital economy.

Laptop Market Segmentation Analysis

By types

The global laptop market is bifurcated into traditional laptops and 2-in-1 laptops. The traditional laptop segment is the highest contributor to the market and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.50% during the forecast period. Personal laptops/notebooks, mobile workstations, and gaming laptops are all included in the traditional laptop market. The commercial segment, particularly the gaming industry, has seen a constant increase in demand, which is mainly responsible for the rise of the conventional laptop market. Traditional laptops still offer more powerful components than their modern counterparts (hybrid or 2 in 1 laptop). On the other hand, the persistent prospect of future tariffs and trade disputes between several important nations and China adds uncertainty to the near-term forecast for laptop demand in countries like India and the U.S.

Students and professionals who do not want to invest in both a laptop and a tablet may find purchasing a 2-in-1 laptop is the best option. Convertible laptops may be the best choice for office employees because they combine high performance with various useful features. Due to their streamlined specifications and components, 2-in-1 laptops excel in portability and flexibility. While more storage, RAM, and other specs can be accommodated in standard laptops, this leads to bigger dimensions and heavier machines.

By screen size

The global laptop market is bifurcated into up to 10.9", 11" to 12.9", 13" to 14.9", 15.0" to 16.9", and more than 17”. The 15.0" to 16.9" segment owns the highest market share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.90% during the forecast period. The typical size of a laptop screen is 11.6 to 17 inches. Despite the fact that technology is necessary, the cost typically rises with monitor size. In terms of price, laptops are a little different because functionality and portability matter more. The monitor or screen of desktop computers and laptops is measured inches from the top left to the bottom right corner. Physically measuring the screen allows one to establish the size of a laptop computer monitor.

By price

The global laptop market is bifurcated into USD 500, USD 501 to USD 1000, USD 1001 to USD 1500, USD 1501 to USD 2000, and above USD 2001. The USD 501 to USD 1000 segment is the highest contributor to the market and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.90% during the forecast period. The sales volume of laptops in this price bracket is also expected to increase more than average. Most globally renowned brands have a substantial portfolio that falls into this price range. These laptops are the most popular among consumers since they offer the necessary functionality at a low cost.

By application

The global laptop market is bifurcated into personal, business, and gaming. The business segment owns the highest market share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.05% during the forecast period. Laptops are used for various tasks, such as personal, professional work, and gaming. The increasing popularity of online gaming among young people supports the expansion of this market. Excellent gaming experiences are delivered by gaming laptops' impressive processing speed and power.

Recent Developments

• May 2024 - In India, Dell Technologies unveiled the Alienware x16 R2, a new gaming laptop equipped with the newest Intel Core Ultra processor. At a starting price of Rs 286,990, the new laptop will be sold starting on April 25 at Dell Exclusive Stores (DES), Dell.com, Amazon .in, bigger format retail stores, and multi-brand outlets.
• March 2024 - The powerful M3 chip-equipped 13- and 15-inch MacBook Air was unveiled by Apple. With even more power, faster Wi-Fi, and compatibility for up to two external monitors, the most popular laptop in the world is now better than ever. Its remarkably light and thin design now offers up to 18 hours of battery life.