• Microsoft has announced price hikes for Xbox consoles
  • Controllers and games are set to go up in price too
  • What caused the price to go up?
Xbox consoles and game prices have jumped in price.
Xbox consoles and game prices have jumped in price. Credit: Imago

It’s a sad day for gamers across America as Microsoft announces new price hikes for Xbox consoles, games and controllers. 

According to a new statement issued by the company’s website, the Xbox Series X, which was released in 2020, has jumped in price by $100.

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Elsewhere, the Xbox series S has also jumped in price, with items like wireless headsets and elite wireless controllers following suit.

Each of these price increases came into effect from 1 May, which means they’re now applicable for gamers across the country. 

As of 1 May, we have adjusted recommended retailer pricing for our consoles and controllers worldwide,” read a recently released statement. 

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When answering the question as to why they were rising, the company explained “we adjusted recommended retailer pricing for our consoles and controllers worldwide.”

Prices in other countries like the United Kingdom and Australia will also be impacted.

What Xbox products have increased?

A number of products have jumped in price.
A number of products have jumped in price. Credit: Imago

As detailed on the Microsoft support website, the following items increased in price as of 1 May 2025.

Xbox consoles

  • Xbox Series S – 512GB – $379.99 (was $299.99)
  • Xbox Series S – 1TB – $429.99 (was $349.99)
  • Xbox Series X – $599.99 (was $499.99)
  • Xbox Series X Digital – $549.99 (was $449.99)
  • Xbox Series X – 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition – $729.99 (was $599.99)

Xbox Accessories

  • Xbox Wireless Controller – $64.99
  • Xbox Wireless Controller – Special Edition – $79.99
  • Xbox Wireless Controller – Limited Edition – $89.99 (was $79.99)
  • Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Core – $149.99 (was $139.99)
  • Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – $199.99 (was $179.99)

Only in USA and Canada:

  • Xbox Stereo Headset – $64.99
  • Xbox Wireless Headset – $119.99 (was $109.99)

In addition, the company also revealed that it plans to adjust the price of some of their first party games – those made directly by Microsoft or their own studios – to $79.99.

This price jump will come into effect starting this holiday season.

Why have the prices increased?

Microsoft gave some explanation as to why it has decided to increase its pricing, saying they “understand that these changes are challenging.”

The company added, “they were made with careful consideration given market conditions and the rising cost of development. Looking ahead, we continue to focus on offering more ways to play more games across any screen and ensuring value for Xbox players.”

Interestingly, the company made no reference to the ongoing disruption caused by Trump tariffs.

Simon is a freelance entertainment journalist and SEO writer based in the UK. He writes about movies, TV and pop-culture and his work has appeared in The Guardian, The Independent, The Daily Beast, IndieWire,...