Rising component costs are forcing consumers to rethink gadget purchases. The AI boom has strained the limited supply chain: a single firm makes cutting‑edge chips, a few produce RAM and SSDs, and none can meet demand. Consulting firm Kearney warns the global RAMpocalypse will persist through 2030, pushing prices upward across the board. Consumers who learn basic soldering can avoid costly replacements.

Manufacturers have responded by inflating tag lines. Apple lifts prices on every model, while Valve’s Steam Machine now lists at $1,049 without a controller—far above its target cost. Microsoft adds $150 to a 1TB Xbox Series X and up to $600 on its latest Surface laptops. Consumers face steeper bills for hardware that once seemed affordable. These hikes pressure small firms dependent on cheap gear.

Instead of surrendering to price pressure, users can extend device life through repair. Fairphone’s modular design and Framework laptops prove DIY fixes are viable, while independent shops offer affordable parts. In 2024 Oregon banned parts‑pairing, and the EU will require replaceable batteries on devices sold after Feb 18 2027. Community repair events further democratize access to spare parts. Embracing repair curbs waste and shields wallets.