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Is Microsoft Raising Xbox Console Prices Again Before the Holidays?
Microsoft is increasing the price of its Xbox Series X and Series S consoles in the United States. This change will start on October 3, 2025. This is the second time prices have gone up this year for these gaming systems. If you plan to buy an Xbox, it is important to understand these new costs.
New Xbox Console Prices
The price increase affects all models of the Xbox Series X and Series S. The cost of accessories, like controllers and headsets, will not change. This price adjustment is also only for customers in the United States. People in other countries will not see these new prices.
Here is a list of the new prices that begin on October 3, 2025:
- The Xbox Series S (512GB) will cost $399.99. This is the entry-level, all-digital console.
- The Xbox Series S (1TB) in black will increase to $449.99. This model offers more storage space.
- The Xbox Series X Digital will be priced at $599.99. This is a powerful console without a disc drive.
- The standard Xbox Series X with a disc drive will move up to $649.99.
- The Xbox Series X – 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition will cost $799.99. This is the largest price jump for the premium model.
Understanding the Price Change
This is not the first price adjustment from Microsoft this year. In May, the company raised Xbox prices in many countries. At that time, Microsoft stated that global economic conditions were the reason. It costs more to make and ship products around the world. This new increase continues that trend but is focused only on the US market.
This move follows a similar one from the competition. Last month, Sony increased the price of its PlayStation 5 models by $50 each. When both major companies raise prices, it often points to bigger issues affecting the entire electronics industry. The cost of parts and shipping continues to be a challenge for these businesses.
It is also useful to look at game pricing. Earlier in the year, Microsoft increased the price of some of its new, first-party games. This is a separate trend from the console prices. For example, the company said some new games would launch at $79.99. However, Microsoft also showed some flexibility, deciding not to apply the new price to every single game, such as the upcoming Outer Worlds 2. This current announcement on October 3rd does not include any changes to game prices; it is only about the consoles.
What This Means for You
If you have been thinking about buying a new Xbox, you may want to act before October 3rd. Buying a console before this date will let you pay the current, lower price. This could save you a significant amount of money, especially if you are interested in the more expensive Series X models.
You should consider which console is the right fit for your needs.
- The Xbox Series S is a great starting point. It is smaller and all-digital, meaning you download games from the internet. It plays all the same new games as the Series X but at a lower resolution. The price difference between it and the Series X is now even larger.
- The Xbox Series X is the most powerful option. It offers the best graphics, faster performance, and a disc drive for physical games and movies. If you want the highest quality gaming experience, this is the model to choose.
Think about how you play games. Do you prefer buying physical discs, or are you happy with digital downloads? Do you need the absolute best graphics on a 4K TV, or is a good gaming experience on a standard HD screen enough for you? Answering these questions can help you decide if the extra cost for a Series X is worth it for you. You can also explore other options, such as looking for sales at different retailers or considering a certified refurbished console.