Building a desktop PC could soon become even more expensive, with reports suggesting motherboard prices may rise sharply as manufacturers face increasing production costs across the supply chain. The report also points to higher prices for several other essential components used in motherboard production, including voltage regulation modules (VRMs), controller chips, copper heatsinks and surface-mounted capacitors. If motherboard prices also climb, consumers assembling their own computers could face considerably higher costs for new builds or upgrades. Ironically, the reported price rises come as demand for desktop PCs continues to weaken. Neither Asus, MSI nor Gigabyte has officially confirmed plans to increase motherboard prices, and the reported 50 per cent rise in component costs could still change before any retail adjustments are introduced.