Xbox Price Hike: Microsoft Raises Console Costs in the US – What it Means for Gamers
Table of Contents
New york,NY – Microsoft is increasing the price of its Xbox Series X and Series S consoles in the United States,effective October 3,2025. The move, impacting all models, comes as the tech giant cites a challenging “macroeconomic surroundings.”
Here’s a breakdown of the new Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP):
* Xbox series S (512GB): $399.99
* Xbox Series S (1TB): $449.99
* Xbox Series X Digital: $599.99
* Xbox Series X (1TB): $649.99
* Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition: $799.99
These prices represent an increase of $20 to $70 compared to the prices set in May, with the premium 2TB Galaxy Black edition seeing the most significant jump.
Why the Price Increase?
Microsoft officially attributes the price adjustments to broader economic shifts. However, industry analysts point to a confluence of factors, including ongoing tariffs on imported electronics, rising costs for components and logistics, and fluctuating exchange rates. The ample price increase for the Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition – now $200 above its original launch price – underscores the impact of these pressures.
How Does This Compare to PlayStation?
The price hike raises the barrier to entry for the Xbox ecosystem just before the crucial holiday shopping season. Currently, the Xbox Series X (1TB) is priced at $649.99, slightly below Sony’s PlayStation 5 Pro, which retails for around $699.99 in the US.While the price gap for standard models remains relatively stable, the message is clear: console prices are unlikely to fall in this generation.
Microsoft is simultaneously investing in expanding its reach beyond customary hardware, continuing to release select titles on PC and PlayStation, and promoting Xbox Cloud Gaming. This strategy aims to capture a wider audience regardless of console ownership.
What About Europe and Other Regions?
For now, the price increases are limited to the United States. European prices,which were already raised earlier this year,remain unchanged. However, consumers in Europe (including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) should remain vigilant. While a US price increase doesn’t guarantee a similar adjustment in the EU, it doesn’t rule it out either. Keep an eye on retailer offers, which may temporarily undercut the MSRP.
Stay tuned to world-today-news.com for further updates on this developing story.
