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Xbox prices will jump again this weekend, but please don’t buy a brand new console today
Microsoft is set to raise Xbox console prices again from 1 August, marking its third increase since 2025. The change makes current-generation Xbox hardware substantially more expensive late in its life cycle, so the article argues that prospective buyers should consider refurbished units or alternatives instead of buying new immediately.
The increases add $100 to 512GB models and $150 to 1TB models, taking the 512GB Xbox Series S to $500—matching the Series X’s 2020 launch price. Microsoft attributes the move to sharply higher storage and memory costs, while also discontinuing the disc-equipped 2TB Xbox Series X. The article notes that comparable price rises have affected PlayStation and Nintendo hardware as component costs increase.
In short
- Xbox prices rise again from 1 August.
- Storage and memory costs are cited.
- Refurbished consoles may offer better value.
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The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Waiting or choosing a refurbished console may be sensible because repeated price rises make new Xbox hardware poor value late in its generation, especially when a 512GB Series S now costs as much as the Series X did at launch. Buyers could save money by comparing alternatives, including other consoles, while avoiding a purchase made under time pressure.
The case against
Buying now could still make sense for someone who wants an Xbox and expects to use it soon, particularly if they find a current price or bundle that suits their budget. Microsoft says higher memory and storage costs are driving the increases, and comparable rises across console makers suggest waiting may not bring lower prices; refurbished units or alternatives may also lack the preferred model, condition, warranty or features.
Explained simply
Xbox consoles are gaming devices made by Microsoft that connect to your television to play video games. Microsoft has announced a new price increase for its current models, which marks the third such rise since 2025.
The company attributes the price hikes to substantially higher manufacturing costs, particularly for storage and memory components. The latest increase will push the entry-level Xbox Series S model to $500, matching the original 2020 launch price of the more powerful Series X console.
Similar price increases have affected gaming consoles from competitors such as Sony's PlayStation and Nintendo as component costs have risen across the industry. This makes current-generation consoles considerably more expensive to purchase new, particularly as these models have now been on sale for several years.