Electronics prices in Russia are set to increase noticeably starting in February 2026, with smartphone costs potentially jumping by 10–30% by March–April. This forecast was shared with aif.ru by well-known IT expert Eldar Murtazin.

What’s happening with prices right now

According to Murtazin, prices are already creeping upward, though the changes remain relatively moderate and only just becoming noticeable. The real surge is expected in the spring, with smartphones likely to be affected first, as they respond quickly to currency fluctuations, logistics costs, and component prices.

“Prices are already changing before our eyes, though not dramatically yet. But if we’re talking about March–April, prices will shift across all types of equipment. Smartphones — by 10 to 30%,” the expert noted.

Why smartphones will be hit the hardest

Smartphones are among the most sensitive tech categories when it comes to external pressures. The main drivers behind the projected price increases include:

  • The ongoing shortage of NAND and DRAM memory as factories pivot toward producing HBM for AI accelerators;
  • A stronger dollar and euro relative to the ruble;
  • Rising logistics expenses and customs duties;
  • Reduced parallel imports for certain brands.

As a result, a mid-range smartphone currently priced at 40,000–50,000 rubles could climb to 52,000–65,000 by April, while devices in the 80,000–100,000 range may easily surpass the psychological threshold of 120,000–130,000 rubles.

What about other electronics?

Murtazin also outlined expectations for additional categories:

  • Laptops — up about 20%;
  • Gaming hardware (PCs, consoles, peripherals) — 30–40%;
  • Home appliances — gradual price increases throughout the year.

In his view, nearly all electronics will be affected, since most components are imported.

What consumers should consider

If you were planning to buy a smartphone, laptop, or gaming console in the coming months, experts advise against delaying the purchase. The spring price jump could be the sharpest in the past two years — especially in the midrange and premium segments, where a 20–30% markup would be most noticeable.

In brief

By March–April 2026, smartphone prices in Russia could rise by 10–30%, laptops by around 20%, and gaming devices by 30–40%, according to Eldar Murtazin. The increase is driven by memory shortages, currency shifts, and logistics costs. Prices are already edging upward, but the main spike is expected in the spring — making early purchases the safer option.