Business & Tech — Microsoft has announced another price increase for its Xbox consoles in the United States, marking the second hike in just four months.
What changed?
Starting October 3, 2025, all Xbox Series X and S models will see higher retail prices:
- Xbox Series S (512GB) → $399 (up from $379)
- Xbox Series S (1TB) → $449
- Xbox Series X Digital → $599 (up from $549)
- Xbox Series X with disc drive → $649 (up from $599)
- Xbox Series X (2TB) → $799 (up from $729)
Microsoft says the move comes due to “changes in the macroeconomic environment.” Accessories such as controllers and headsets will remain at their current prices.
How does this compare?
The price hikes place Xbox consoles above rival Sony’s PlayStation 5, which currently sells for:
- PS5 Standard: $550
- PS5 Digital: $500
Nintendo’s Switch OLED also costs $400 — now on par with the cheaper Xbox Series S.
Why it matters
This is the second Xbox price increase in 2025, after a May hike pushed the Series S from $299 to $379 and the Series X from $499 to $599. Microsoft also plans to raise the price of upcoming first-party games from $69.99 to $79.99.
Industry analysts note that tariffs introduced under President Donald Trump have increased costs for many consumer electronics companies. Microsoft, like Sony and Nintendo, has adjusted its console pricing as a result.
Microsoft’s statement
“We understand that these changes are challenging, and they were made with careful consideration,” the company said on its website, adding that it remains committed to “offering more ways to play more games across any screen.”
