Microsoft’s Next Xbox Could Officially Become Its Most Expensive Console of All Time
Microsoft’s next console, Project Helix, could cost between $1,200 and $1,800, according to reported internal estimates. If that range proves accurate, it would make the console a major investment, although Microsoft has not announced a retail price and may subsidise the hardware.
Helix is designed to play both Xbox and PC games, and its reported launch target is the 2028 holiday season. Microsoft has confirmed it is building the console around a custom AMD chip and plans to send early hardware to developers in 2027; a separate next-generation handheld is reportedly planned for 2027.
In short
- Project Helix is reportedly estimated to cost $1,200 to $1,800.
- Microsoft has not confirmed a retail price.
- The console is designed to play Xbox and PC games.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A premium price could be justified if Helix delivers substantial performance and the convenience of playing both Xbox and PC games on one device. A higher price may also reflect costly hardware, while giving Microsoft room to offer a more capable console for players who value performance and flexibility over affordability.
The case against
A reported price of $1,200 to $1,800 would put Helix beyond the reach of many players and far above what they expect to pay for a console. If the key appeal is access to games, buyers may be better served by a cheaper console or PC, making the extra cost difficult to justify even if the hardware is powerful.
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