In the global IT market, the recent expansion of investment in artificial intelligence (AI) data centers has significantly changed the semiconductor demand structure, leading to an increasing increase in the price of consumer laptops.

The recently released 2026 premium laptops from Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics have seen significant price increases compared to their predecessors.

The 'Galaxy Book 6 Ultra' unveiled by Samsung Electronics is priced at 4.62 million to 4.93 million won, and the 'Galaxy Book 6 Pro' is priced at 2.60 million to 3.51 million won.

LG Electronics' flagship model, the 'LG Gram Pro AI', also exceeds 2 million won based on the maximum benefit price.

The explanation is that price increases have become inevitable as high-performance CPUs, large-capacity memory, and NPUs for AI operations have become standard specifications.

These price increases are due to the surge in demand for memory for AI servers and high-performance semiconductors, prompting memory manufacturers to restructure production around servers and HBM (high-bandwidth memory).

As a result, the supply of general-purpose DRAM and SSDs used in PCs and laptops has become tight, and prices are rising steeply.all.

According to market research firm TrendForce, contract prices for notebook DRAM and SSD in the first quarter of 2026 are expected to rise by more than 80% and 70%, respectively, compared to the previous quarter.


The cost of manufacturing laptops has risen significantly due to the Intel CPU shortage and price hikes, as well as the rising prices of key components such as PCBs, batteries, and power management integrated circuits (PMICs).

The CPU is a key component that accounts for 15-30% of the total cost of a laptop, and supply disruptions and price increases are directly impacting product planning and shipment schedules.

However, manufacturers are implementing various marketing and promotional activities to lower the increased price barrier.

To celebrate the launch of the 2026 LG Gram, LG Electronics is hosting a large-scale event, including an online live broadcast, discount coupons, and free gifts.

We also offer a subscription service that allows you to use the service on a monthly basis, reducing the initial purchase burden.

Samsung Electronics also launched a campaign to attract consumers by offering generous benefits such as limited edition laptop bags, software licenses, and free Samsung Care Plus trials.

The new product's differentiating points are also clear.

LG Gram is an ultra-light new material used in the aerospace industry. By applying 'Aero Aluminum', portability and durability were simultaneously enhanced, and the on-device AI function was emphasized by installing the self-developed large language model 'EXAONE 3.5'.


The Samsung Galaxy Book 6 series expands the Galaxy AI ecosystem to PCs, powered by Intel's latest Core Ultra processor and NPU with up to 50 TOPS performance.

Premium specifications such as a high-brightness display, reinforced cooling structure, and long-lasting battery life were also highlighted.

The industry predicts that the upward pressure on laptop prices will not be easily abated, as the instability in memory and CPU supply is likely to continue for the time being.

Nevertheless, manufacturers are trying to maintain demand with premium strategies and aggressive marketing that emphasize AI features and advanced specifications.

As laptops evolve from simple work devices to personal AI platforms in the AI era, the extent to which consumers are willing to accept higher prices will be a key factor in the future market.