Recent data reveals a notable shift in the enterprise PC market, with desktop shipments to businesses experiencing a robust 22% increase. This surge accounts for 17% of total enterprise PC sales, as companies prepare for the impending end of support for Windows 10. The urgency to upgrade is fueled not only by the transition to Windows 11 but also by the anticipation of future operating systems.
In contrast, consumer enthusiasm for upgrading appears to be waning, with a modest 9% rise in overall PC shipments. This discrepancy highlights a significant divergence in purchasing behavior between enterprises and individual consumers. While businesses are actively refreshing their technology, consumers seem less inclined to invest in new devices at this time.
Market Dynamics and Future Outlook
The landscape of PC shipments is evolving, as evidenced by data from industry analysts. Canalys reports that during the first four months of 2025, overall PC shipments rose by an average of 9%. Desktops saw an 8% increase, while notebooks outperformed with a 10% rise. However, these figures encompass all PC shipments, not exclusively those directed at enterprise clients.
Principal Analyst Ishan Dutt notes that the decision by Microsoft to discontinue Windows 10 is just one of several factors driving increased sales. The ongoing trade war and economic uncertainty have prompted both customers and suppliers to act preemptively, acquiring new technology before potential price hikes. “This preemptive strategy allowed manufacturers and the channel to stock up ahead of potential cost increases, boosting sell-in shipments despite otherwise stable end-user demand,” Dutt explained.
Despite the popularity of Windows 10, many users have been content with their current hardware or faced limitations due to software and licensing restrictions. Currently, Windows 11 adoption stands at 43%, still trailing behind Windows 10’s 53%. However, the gap has narrowed significantly over the past year, indicating a gradual shift in user preferences.
Looking ahead, IDC forecasts a potential contraction in the global PC market, attributing this to the stabilization associated with the widespread migration to Windows 11. “Expectations of worsening macroeconomic conditions around the world and in the US characterized by upward pressures on prices and degrading consumer sentiment,” remarked IDC Worldwide PC Trackers Research VP Jean Philippe Bouchard. This outlook suggests that while enterprises are currently investing in technology, the broader market may face challenges in the near future.
