Cut-Rate PCs Led End-of-Year Computer Sales - Digits - WSJ

Rapidly changing PC market dynamics

"Another market researcher, NPD, said Chromebook unit sales in U.S. retail outlets rose about 56% in the five-week holiday stretch through Dec. 28. Overall computer sales rose 3.5% during the period, NPD estimated. The average sale price of Windows PCs was $408 during the holiday period, down from $436 a year earlier.

The sales reports show how the Chromebook, introduced in 2011, helped change the perception of what a PC is and what it should cost.

Chromebooks and machines running Windows 8.1 with Bing join a growing number of computers that meld functions of laptops and tablets. They also compete with emerging “stick” devices that pack PC functions into a pocket-size form factor.

At the other end of the price spectrum, Apple is enjoying a revival of the Mac."

Cut-Rate PCs Led End-of-Year Computer Sales - Digits - WSJ