Retail price watch

For this issue of price watch, Context has analysed PC price evolution at retail from 1 January to 15 April. As suppliers' new ranges hit the shelves with faster processors, faster modems and faster CD-ROM drives, machine prices launched in Q3 and Q4 last year are tumbling. The graph shows average unit prices by supplier.

Those suppliers with refreshed ranges already in the shops have picked up their average unit value considerably. Packard Bell maintains stable pricing with a steady roll-out of faster processors and richer features.

Compaq's new range appeared mid-March and by mid-April all but a few Compaq PCs at retail have the latest spec. AST's prices slide downwards in expectation of the new Advantage range.

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