Microsoft to Raise Xbox Console Prices Again in the U.S.

Microsoft announced that it will raise the recommended retail price of all Xbox Series X and Series S consoles sold in the United States beginning Friday, October 3, 2025. The company said the decision was made because of “changes in the macroeconomic environment.” This will be the second time Microsoft has increased U.S. console prices in 2025, following a previous adjustment in May.

The price changes apply to all current models of the Xbox Series X and Series S. The Xbox Series S 512GB will increase from $379.99 to $399.99. The Xbox Series S 1TB will rise from $429.99 to $449.99. The Xbox Series X Digital Edition will increase from $549.99 to $599.99. The standard Xbox Series X with a disc drive will move from $599.99 to $649.99. The Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition will rise from $729.99 to $799.99, the largest single increase of $70.

The announced adjustments are linked to the ongoing tariff situation between the United States and China. The tariffs were introduced during the Trump administration and have affected the global gaming industry. Some companies have shifted manufacturing to Vietnam and India to offset the tariffs, while others have raised retail prices in different regions. Sony has raised prices on the PlayStation 5, and Nintendo has raised prices on the original Switch models and accessories.

Although Microsoft did not directly cite tariffs, it confirmed the price increases in a statement on its website. The company said, “We understand that these changes are challenging, and they were made with careful consideration. Looking ahead, we continue to focus on offering more ways to play more games across any screen and providing value for Xbox players.” Microsoft added that the changes apply only to new console sales. Prices for controllers, headsets, and other accessories will remain unchanged, and prices outside of the United States will not be affected.

For buyers considering a purchase, waiting for a price drop may no longer be a safe bet. Customers have less than two weeks before the new prices take effect on October 3.

The price hike takes effect only days before Microsoft and ASUS release the ROG Xbox Ally handheld system lineup on Thursday, October 16, 2025. The lineup will include the ROG Ally and the Ally X. Microsoft has not yet announced U.S. prices for either device, even though the launch is less than a month away.

The latest adjustments reveal how Xbox prices have evolved since their initial launch. The Xbox Series S 512GB originally launched at $299.99 and will soon be $399.99. The Xbox Series S 1TB launched at $349.99 and will be $449.99. The Xbox Series X Digital Edition launched at $449.99 and will rise to $599.99. The standard Xbox Series X launched at $499.99 and will increase to $649.99. The Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition launched at $599.99 and will move to $799.99, a total increase of $200 since its release.

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