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Here we go again. Following an increase in Xbox console prices earlier this year, Microsoft has revealed yet another price rise—marking the second adjustment within just four months. Now, even the most affordable offering, the Xbox Series S, will be priced at a minimum of $400.
As someone who snagged an Xbox Series S for just $150 a few years ago, this news is tough to swallow. (Admittedly, I landed an incredible deal. Nevertheless.) Microsoft attributes this price hike to “shifts in the macroeconomic environment,” so interpret that as you see fit.
How much more expensive will the Xbox be?
Here’s the new pricing for Microsoft’s consoles once these changes become effective:
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Xbox Series S (512GB): $400 (previously $380)
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Xbox Series S (1TB): $450 (previously $430)
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Xbox Series X Digital Edition: $600 (previously $550)
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Xbox Series X: $650 (previously $600)
It’s worth noting that even after Sony adjusted its prices, U.S. players can still purchase a PS5 for $550 or the PS5 Digital Edition for $500. While it’s true that Microsoft’s consoles initially appear cheaper, the Series S is more akin to the original Nintendo Switch rather than the Xbox Series X or PS5, and a price tag of $400 is still significant—especially since the original Switch saw a price increase just last month as well, with the OLED version now also listed at $400. In a direct comparison, Sony’s console is positioned to be considerably more affordable than Microsoft’s.
Players who value physical media will face the greatest impact, as acquiring a disc drive requires selecting the standard Xbox Series X, leading to a more substantial price increase compared to their counterparts. The previous adjustment raised the Xbox Series S by $80 and the Series X by $100; in contrast, this hike increases the Series S by $20 and the Series X by $50.
What do you think so far?
On a positive note, Microsoft has announced that the pricing for controllers and headsets “will stay the same,” which wasn’t the case during the last increase. Perhaps this signals a shift in their overall console strategy: Given Microsoft’s substantial investments in cloud gaming lately, and the fact that you don’t necessarily need a console to enjoy its games, raises in hardware pricing might be less concerning for the Halo team compared to the God of War crew.
Additionally, I haven’t even mentioned Microsoft’s priciest model yet. For devoted Xbox fans eager to invest in the 2TB Xbox Series X Galaxy Black Special Edition, the price will now stand at $800, reflecting a $70 increase. Frankly, at that point, opting for a gaming PC might be a more compelling choice.
There are ways to respond to these price hikes, even if it feels a bit like capitulating: These adjustments won’t take effect until October 3rd. If you’re still contemplating purchasing an Xbox, now is the moment to make a move. While you will still need to contend with the price increase from May, you will at least save anywhere between $20 and $70.