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Xbox has officially announced today that the price of the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S will be increasing worldwide as of August 1st, 2026. The increase will be US$100 for 512GB models and US$150 for 1TB models.
Microsoft says the component shortage crisis is leaving them with no choice but to make this decision:
"Last October, we increased XBOX console price by $20-$70 in the U.S. We hoped another price increase would not be necessary, and we have spent the last several months working with suppliers on options. Unfortunately, console storage and memory prices have increased by more than 2.5x and we expect another doubling by the fall of 2027. The entire consumer electronics industry is struggling with the current components crisis, but the effects are particularly hard on consoles. Unlike phones, computers, speakers, and other consumer devices, consoles are typically not sold at a profit, but instead for less than they cost to make."
In the process, the 2TB model of the Xbox Series X is also being sunsetted permanently.
To try and ease the pain, Team Xbox is highlighting four ways that have been implemented to "make XBOX consoles more accessible", including "new programs to provide previously played consoles at lower prices".
Here's more information on all of these:
- Buy Now, Pay Later: We’ve made it easier for players to use Buy Now, Pay Later options on eligible XBOX hardware purchases through Microsoft Stores, making it possible to break up your payment into predictable short-term, interest-free installments.
- Interest Free Financing: Players purchasing eligible XBOX hardware through Amazon can take advantage of 0% APR financing for up to 12 months, giving players more flexibility with lower monthly payments and more budgeting control.
- Previously Played Consoles: We are working with retail partners on new programs to provide previously played consoles at lower prices. Players who are ready to upgrade or no longer use their console will be able to trade it in with participating retail partners for cash or store credit. Those consoles will then be made available at lower prices for players.
- Certified Refurbished Consoles: XBOX Certified Refurbished Consoles are available at Microsoft Stores for up to US$100 off MSRP.
In terms of the new Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S prices, we haven't yet heard about region-specific price changes at the time of writing, but we know that the following increases will definitely apply in the United States:
- Xbox Series S (512GB) - $399.99 to $499.99
- Xbox Series S (1TB) - $449.99 to $599.99
- Xbox Series X Digital (1TB) - $599.99 to $749.99
- Xbox Series X (1TB) - $649.99 to $799.99
These are some painful price increases without a doubt, and if you were in the market for an Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S in recent weeks / months, we suggest considering one before the August 1st deadline rolls around.