Under the impact of tariffs, Dell is busy "lightening the load," and discounts on American computers have significantly shrunk
Dell Technologies Group has canceled or reduced discounts on computer products in the United States due to tariff policies, resulting in higher prices for consumers. Analysis shows that the number of laptop discounts in Dell's online store has fallen to the lowest level since early 2024. Some special offers on desktop computers have also been canceled, leading to significant price increases. Dell's Chief Financial Officer stated that the tariff costs will ultimately be passed on to consumers
According to the Zhitong Finance APP, Dell Technologies Group (DELL.US) has canceled or reduced discounts on many of its computer products in the United States, further indicating that consumers may have to pay higher prices in the face of fluctuating tariff policies.
An analysis of archived versions of Dell's website saved by the Internet Archive's "Wayback Machine" reveals that the number of laptop discounts listed in Dell's online store is at its lowest since early 2024. Some special offers on desktop computers have also been canceled.
For example, an XPS 16 laptop had a discount of $600 at the end of March 2025 and also had significant discounts in December 2024. However, by Wednesday, that discount had been canceled, and the total price of the laptop rose to about $3,050.
The tariff policies announced by U.S. President Donald Trump have caused significant fluctuations in global markets and raised concerns about an economic recession. For electronics manufacturers, the threat of disruption is particularly severe, as components and production labor come from around the world. Trump's decision to suspend tariff increases on most countries led to a significant market rebound on Wednesday, although tariffs on China still rose to 125%.
Dell, headquartered in Round Rock, Texas, did not immediately comment on the matter.
Dell's Chief Financial Officer Yvonne McGill told investors in March this year that the company views tariffs as a cost input. She stated, "So, when I consider the increase in cost inputs, we ultimately have to pass that cost on to consumers."
Consumer electronics such as laptops and smartphones are often sold below their list prices during limited-time promotional events. In some cases, while discounts have decreased, they have not been completely eliminated. A Dell Inspiron series budget laptop was priced at $250 after a $130 discount at the end of March. By Wednesday, the price of this laptop had changed to $300.
In at least one case, Dell raised the product's list price. At the end of last month, an Alienware gaming laptop had a pre-discount price of about $1,700. By Tuesday, the same laptop's list price had changed to $1,880.
Like most electronics companies, Dell relies on numerous suppliers for components or assembly work. Dell has always viewed its global supply chain as an asset, claiming that its supply chain is sufficiently diversified to help the company cope with the impacts of tariffs
