Industry experts from PCMag and Tom's Guide warn that memory (RAM) prices are projected to rise significantly throughout 2026 due to AI-driven demand. If you find a good deal on a machine with at least now, it may be wiser to buy immediately rather than waiting for seasonal sales that might be offset by rising component costs.

The second-best window, especially for students. You'll find solid discounts (8% to 17%) and valuable bundles, such as free gift cards or accessories from retailers like the Apple Store .

A major mid-year event where Amazon and competitors like Best Buy slash prices on mainstream and budget laptops. Best Time for Specific Needs

The "undisputed champion" for deals across all brands, including premium models like the MacBook Pro and high-end gaming rigs.

Target Black Friday or Memorial Day (late May). These periods often feature the steepest price cuts on high-performance machines. 2026 Market Warning: The "RAM Crunch"