The secondhand PC market is experiencing a surge in popularity across Europe, driven by ongoing shortages of key components, particularly memory chips, and the resulting increase in the price of new devices. According to market analysis firm Context, sales of refurbished PCs through distribution channels rose by 7 percent in the fourth quarter of 2025 across Italy, the UK, Germany, Spain, and France.
This isn’t simply a matter of consumers seeking cheaper alternatives; it represents a shift towards the “mainstreaming” of second-life computing. While affordability remains the primary motivator – roughly 40 percent of purchases fall within the €235 to €355 (approximately $235 to $355) price range for laptops – a growing segment of buyers are willing to spend more for improved specifications. Sales in the €355 to €475 tier have increased significantly, rising from 15 percent of the refurbished market a year ago to 23 percent now, indicating a demand for more capable used machines.
The current situation is a direct consequence of supply chain disruptions that have plagued the technology industry in recent years. The global chip shortage of 2020-2023, which impacted over 169 industries, continues to have ripple effects. While the most acute phase of the shortage may have passed, the availability of certain components, including memory chips, remains constrained. This scarcity drives up the cost of new PC manufacturing, making refurbished options increasingly attractive.
The dynamic is further complicated by shifting priorities within the semiconductor industry. Memory chip manufacturers are reportedly prioritizing production of high-value memory components used in artificial intelligence (AI) datacenter applications. So that the types of memory chips commonly used in PCs, smartphones, and other consumer devices are receiving less attention, exacerbating the supply issues in those markets. This prioritization reflects the current investment landscape, where AI is seen as a major growth driver, and manufacturers are allocating resources accordingly.
The United Kingdom is emerging as a particularly strong market for refurbished PCs. Context reports that sales volumes in Britain effectively doubled in 2025, surpassing Germany as the largest market in Europe. This growth suggests a strong consumer appetite for sustainable and affordable computing options within the UK.
The rise of the refurbished PC market isn’t occurring in a vacuum. Broader economic factors are also at play. Europe’s economic outlook for 2025 is cautiously optimistic, with forecasts predicting GDP growth exceeding 1.5 percent, up from 0.9 percent in 2024. However, this growth is tempered by ongoing geopolitical instability and the potential for protectionist trade policies, particularly from the United States. These uncertainties contribute to a more conservative spending approach among consumers, making the affordability of refurbished PCs even more appealing.
Interestingly, this trend is unfolding alongside relatively slow growth in the new PC market. Recent data indicates that PC shipments in 2024 increased by only about 1 percent year-over-year. While new PCs are incorporating AI features, these haven’t yet translated into a significant surge in sales, suggesting that consumers are not yet rushing to upgrade solely for these capabilities. This lack of immediate demand for AI-powered PCs further strengthens the case for refurbished options, which offer a more cost-effective way to meet computing needs.
The increasing acceptance of refurbished PCs also aligns with growing environmental awareness. Extending the lifespan of existing devices reduces electronic waste and conserves resources, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. This aligns with broader sustainability initiatives and the increasing focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors in business and consumer decision-making.
Looking ahead, the trend towards a more mainstream refurbished PC market is likely to continue. As long as component shortages persist and new PC prices remain elevated, refurbished devices will offer a compelling alternative for budget-conscious buyers. The increasing willingness of consumers to spend slightly more for improved specifications in the secondhand market suggests that the quality and performance of refurbished PCs are meeting expectations. The long-term implications of this shift could include a more circular economy for computing devices and a reduced reliance on the constant cycle of new product releases.
