High-end laptops built around Intel’s upcoming Panther Lake X series chips are getting noticeably more expensive in China, and the increases are big enough that some models are now priced above Apple’s latest MacBook options in the same market.
The main driver appears to be the ongoing shortages and pricing pressure around key components like DRAM and SSDs. Those rising memory and storage costs are already showing up across the broader PC hardware landscape, and they’re now translating directly into higher laptop prices—especially on premium systems that pair powerful CPUs with large RAM and SSD configurations. On top of that, Intel CPU pricing is also expected to climb in the coming months, which could push laptop prices even higher if brands pass the extra cost on to buyers.
According to a report shared by user @realVictor_M, recent retail listings in China suggest Intel Panther Lake X laptop pricing has climbed by at least 1,000 yuan (about $145) on some models, with select configurations seeing far steeper jumps.
One example is the HP Book Pro 16 (2026 edition) using the Core Ultra X7 358H. This model includes 32GB of memory and a 1TB SSD, along with a 2.5K 240Hz display and a 70Wh battery in a lightweight design. It originally launched at 7,999 yuan, but is now listed at 8,999 yuan (around $1,162), reflecting a 1,000 yuan increase.
ASUS models are reportedly seeing even more dramatic hikes. In the Zenbook Duo 14 lineup, a configuration featuring the Core Ultra X7 358H with 32GB RAM and a 1TB SSD jumped from 14,999 yuan to 18,999 yuan—an increase of 4,000 yuan (about $581). Another variant with the Core Ultra X9 388H and the same 32GB + 1TB setup is listed at 22,999 yuan (around $3,341), up by 6,000 yuan (about $870).
What makes the situation more striking is the contrast with Apple’s MacBook Air M5 series pricing in China. The 13-inch and 15-inch models reportedly haven’t changed price, with 16GB + 512GB configurations listed at 8,499 yuan and 9,999 yuan, respectively. With Panther Lake-based Windows laptops moving upward while MacBook prices remain steady, some shoppers may find Apple’s offerings comparatively more attractive than before—particularly for buyers who are sensitive to sudden price jumps.
If component shortages persist and CPU prices continue to rise as expected, Panther Lake laptop pricing may remain volatile, especially for high-end configurations that rely heavily on larger RAM and SSD capacities.
