Xbox Prices Skyrocket as Microsoft Blames Rising Component Costs
The Xbox Series X and Series S have seen yet another price increase, this time by as much as $150 in the US. The standard Series X now costs $799.99, up from its original launch price of $499, while the all-digital Series X has risen to $749.99. The 1TB Xbox Series S is now priced at $599.99, and the entry-level 512GB Series S costs $499.99.
Microsoft attributes these increases to rising component costs, which have more than doubled in just over a year. The company claims that it has been working with suppliers to avoid further price hikes but was ultimately unable to absorb the added expenses without passing them on to consumers.
The Xbox Series S's affordability is also under scrutiny, particularly its 512GB model. Originally priced at $299, this console now costs nearly as much as the original Series X did when it launched in 2020. With game file sizes continuing to grow, players may need to manage their libraries more aggressively or purchase additional storage.
The discontinuation of the 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition Series X has also left some consumers feeling uncertain about their options. While remaining stock may still be available at retailers while supplies last, Microsoft no longer considers this model part of its long-term console lineup.