Today Microsoft announced that Xbox console prices are increasing globally. Prices for both the Xbox Series X and Series S models are going up, effective August 1, 2026. Consumers looking to purchase a new 512GB version of either model should expect to pay $100 USD more, whereas the prices jump an additional $150 for the 1TB versions.
Microsoft have also decided to discontinue the 2TB model moving forward, citing a global memory crisis as the reason behind these decisions. It’s not all bad news, though. Additional purchase options, such as financing, are being introduced to help consumers eager to buy a new console.
Xbox’s New Pricing
The disc drive edition of the Xbox Series X 1TB will cost $799.99, whereas the digital version will be $749.99. The 1TB model of the Series S increases to $599.99, while it’s smaller 512GB counterpart lands at $499.99. These changes mean a $300 increase in the Series X price since launch, whereas the Series S is about 50% more expensive than in 2020.
The timing on these price increases is also notable. Microsoft recently announced a limited-edition Xbox Series X, the X25. The translucent green 25th anniversary edition console is expected to arrive in November, however prices have not been announced.
The price announcement also comes just one day after Xbox CEO Asha Sharma told Entertainment Weekly that gaming is “unaffordable in many cases.” Sharma cites the “attention economy” and various competing subscription services as factors driving price increases globally.
Additionally, the price change also comes just eight months after the last US pricing increase.
Not Just Microsoft
Console storage and memory prices continue to rise globally and are expected to continue to do so through 2027. Sony, Microsoft, as well as Nintendo have all increased console prices over the last year. The PlayStation 5 console saw a $100 increase in March. Nintendo hiked the prices of the Switch 2 in the US, Europe, Canada, and Japan.
It’s not just the prices of consoles that have been affected. Recently, Valve announced their new Steam Machine, having a starting cost of $1000 USD. The company mentioned it was not their original price point.
New Purchasing Options Announced
In an attempt to offset rising prices, Microsoft also announced new programs aimed at accessibility. These include a “Buy Now, Pay Later” option through Microsoft Stores. Also being introduced is an interest-free financing option at Amazon, as well as new trade-in and previously-played console programs at retailers. Finally, Xbox Certified Refurbished consoles will be available at up to $100 off retail price through Microsoft Stores.
Microsoft ended their announcement by noting that the Xbox Series S remains the lowest-cost option for entry into modern gaming. Highly-anticipated titles expected this year include Gears of War: E-Day, Halo: Campaign Evolved, Grand Theft Auto VI, and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 will be available on the platform.
While Microsoft confirmed a global increase in pricing, regional pricing (including in CAD) have not been officially published at the time of writing.
