Global PC shipments fell sharply in the third quarter of 2026, extending the industry’s downturn for a second consecutive quarter.
According to IDC, worldwide computer shipments dropped 20.1% year over year to 62.7 million units between July and September.
The decline was much steeper than the 3.8% drop recorded in Q2. Shipments also fell 9.1% compared with the previous quarter.
Inventory Buildup Is Hurting Shipments
IDC notes that shipment figures do not directly represent consumer sales. Retailers and distributors built up inventory during the first half of the year to get ahead of expected price increases.
That meant fewer new orders were needed in Q3 as channels focused on clearing existing stock.
IDC research director Jitesh Ubrani said retailers are increasingly concerned about carrying too much inventory while high prices continue to weaken demand.
IDC expects prices to remain elevated across the industry, while worsening macroeconomic conditions could put further pressure on the next few quarters.
Lenovo Remains the Largest PC Vendor
Lenovo remained the world’s largest PC vendor in Q3, shipping 14.9 million units and capturing 23.8% of the market.
HP ranked second with 10.3 million shipments, followed by Dell with 7.6 million. Apple shipped 5.9 million units, while ASUS recorded 5.5 million shipments.
| Company | Q3 2026 Shipments | Market Share | YoY Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lenovo | 14.9 million | 23.8% | -22.6% |
| HP | 10.3 million | 16.5% | -30.9% |
| Dell | 7.6 million | 12.1% | -25.0% |
| Apple | 5.9 million | 9.5% | -11.3% |
| ASUS | 5.5 million | 8.7% | -8.6% |
| Others | 18.4 million | 29.4% | -14.0% |
| Total | 62.7 million | 100% | -20.1% |
HP Records the Biggest Decline
Among the five largest vendors, HP suffered the steepest year-over-year decline, with shipments falling 30.9%.
Dell followed with a 25% drop, while Lenovo shipments declined 22.6%.
ASUS performed best among the top five despite still recording an 8.6% decline, followed by Apple at 11.3%.
The figures suggest the PC market is facing a difficult period as manufacturers, retailers and consumers deal with high prices, excess inventory and weaker demand.
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