The worldwide market for personal computing devices, including PCs and tablets, is projected to grow by 3.8% in 2024, with shipments expected to reach 403.5 million units, according to the latest forecast from IDC. While PCs remain a key focus—bolstered by marketing efforts for AI-powered models and the looming end-of-support for Windows 10—tablets are emerging as a major growth driver, with nearly double-digit expansion anticipated.
| Product Category | 2024 Shipments | 2024/2023 Growth | 2028 Shipments | 2028/2027 Growth | 2024-2028 CAGR |
| Commercial | 170 | 2.20% | 181.8 | 1.00% | 1.70% |
| Consumer | 233.5 | 5.00% | 238.8 | -0.10% | 0.60% |
| Total | 403.5 | 3.80% | 420.6 | 0.40% | 1.00% |
Tablet shipments are forecast to rise 9.8% this year, significantly outpacing the modest 0.8% growth projected for PCs. Looking ahead, 2025 is expected to mark a rebound year for PCs, with a 4.3% increase in shipments, largely fueled by businesses transitioning from Windows 10 to Windows 11.
The increasing emphasis on AI has dominated technology discussions in recent years, particularly with a focus on integrating AI capabilities directly into devices. However, economic challenges have left many corporate budgets strained, and companies are still assessing the practical need for AI-equipped PCs and tablets, which often come with steeper price tags.
Despite uncertainties surrounding the adoption of AI-powered devices, the overall outlook for PCs and tablets remains optimistic, supported by commercial upgrades and economic improvements, says IDC.
