Back-to-School Laptops and Tablet Prices Are Going Up, but There's a Workaround

Back-to-school tech doesn't come cheap. And the RAM shortage is making new devices even more expensive than before. Our devices rely on memory chips, but there's a shortage thanks to the evolution of AI. As a ripple effect, everything from new phones to computers and tablets costs more. You may be able to dodge price hikes by buying certified refurbished devices that cost a fraction of the original price.

In April 2026, CNET found that nearly half (48%) of US adults had considered buying secondhand devices within the past year. Several factors influenced their decision, including cost-effectiveness (31%) and newer models being too expensive (25%).

These devices avoid the memory chip shortage crisis, but the increased demand is pushing prices higher. So what should you do if you really need a laptop for school? I'll explain.

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How is the RAM shortage impacting refurbished tech?

Older devices bypass new chip costs, making them a potentially more cost-effective option. But the RAM shortage is increasing demand and prices for refurbished products.

Apple is the latest tech company to raise prices on its new and refurbished products. Its Certified Refurbished store saw price increases of 6% to 15% in June. A refurbished 14-inch MacBook Pro M5 with 16GB of memory and 1TB of storage cost $1,699, but a discount brought it down to $1,439 on June 14 after looking at Internet Archive's Wayback Machine. It now costs $1,999, but a discount brings it down to $1,699.

Other companies, including Samsung and Microsoft, have also been affected by chip shortages. Microsoft will increase the prices of its Xbox Series X/S on Aug. 1, and its new Surface laptop models will cost more. The chip shortage isn't expected to end until 2028, so more companies may continue to raise prices on new and refurbished devices.

Refurbished back-to-school tech may still cost less than new devices, but there are a few shopping tips to keep in mind if you need to buy a laptop or tablet soon.

Apple recently increased prices on new and refurbished tech by up to 15% for some devices. MirageC/Getty Images/J. Hazelwood/CNET

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