Microsoft Announces Global Price Hike for Xbox Consoles, Accessories, and Games

Microsoft is increasing prices across its Xbox product line globally, affecting consoles, controllers, and select first-party games. While Xbox Game Pass pricing remains unchanged for now, gamers will begin to see higher price tags on hardware and new releases as early as this holiday season.

Xbox Console Prices Jump Worldwide

Effective immediately, Microsoft has raised the recommended retail prices for its Xbox Series S and Series X consoles. Here's a breakdown of the updated pricing in the U.S.:

• Xbox Series X (1TB): Now $599.99 (up $100)
• Xbox Series S (512GB): Now $379.99 (up $80)
• Xbox Series S (1TB): Now $429.99
• Xbox Series X Digital Edition: Now $549.99
• Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition: Now $729.99

These adjustments reflect a global shift, with corresponding increases in Europe, the UK, and markets like Australia. For example:

• Xbox Series S (512GB): €349.99 / £299.99
• Xbox Series X (1TB): €599.99 / £499.99

Controller and Accessory Price Increases

Xbox accessories are also seeing price hikes:

• Xbox Wireless Controller: Now $64.99
• Xbox Wireless Headset: Now $119.99

These prices align with what consumers have already observed in retail stores in recent months.

New Game Prices Set to Rise

Select first-party Xbox games launching later in 2025 will increase from $69.99 to $79.99, matching pricing trends from competitors like Nintendo with its Switch 2 titles. Despite these increases, Microsoft has confirmed that Xbox Game Pass subscription fees will remain unchanged for now.

Context Behind the Price Changes

This marks Microsoft’s second major Xbox hardware price adjustment since June 2023. While last year’s changes impacted Game Pass subscriptions as well, the current increases focus solely on consoles, accessories, and game pricing.

The news comes amid ongoing concerns about global tariffs and just one day after Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella highlighted the company’s strong performance during its latest earnings call. Microsoft reported that it ended the quarter as the top publisher by preorders and preinstalls on both Xbox and PlayStation stores. Additionally, PC Game Pass revenue surged 45% year-over-year, underscoring continued growth in the digital subscription space.

What’s Next for Xbox Fans?

With hardware and game prices on the rise, Xbox enthusiasts may need to plan their purchases more strategically in 2025. Still, Microsoft appears committed to keeping Game Pass competitive as a central pillar of its gaming ecosystem.

Stay tuned for updates on upcoming Xbox titles, new Game Pass additions, and more pricing developments in the months ahead.