PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchXbox Series X|S prices rose in the U.S. on August 1, 2026, after Microsoft announced the change on June 25. Reported new prices range from $499.99 for the Series S 512GB to $799.99 for the disc-drive Series X 1TB. Microsoft says 512GB models went up by $100 and 1TB models by $150; it is also sunsetting the 2TB Series X Galaxy Black. Microsoft’s announcement gives the increase amounts and global scope, while the model-by-model U.S. prices below are reported by VideoCardz.
New reported U.S. Xbox prices
The figures below are reported U.S. prices, not a live check of retailer listings. Microsoft announced the size of the increases, but the exact U.S. model prices were reported by VideoCardz.
| Model | Storage and disc drive | Previous reported U.S. price | New reported U.S. price | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox Series S | 512GB, digital-only | $399.99 | $499.99 | $100 |
| Xbox Series S | 1TB, digital-only | $449.99 | $599.99 | $150 |
| Xbox Series X Digital Edition | 1TB, no disc drive | $599.99 | $749.99 | $150 |
| Xbox Series X | 1TB, disc drive | $649.99 | $799.99 | $150 |
| Xbox Series X Galaxy Black | 2TB, disc drive | not stated by VideoCardz | Being sunset; no new price stated | Not applicable |
Microsoft says the pricing update applies worldwide, but that does not mean every country has the same prices or effective date. The table is for U.S. buyers; local prices, taxes, retailer stock, and bundles can differ. A discounted listing may reflect older stock or include a game or accessory, so compare what is in the box as well as the price. The Xbox console lineup is Microsoft’s official product destination.
When the increase took effect—and how it fits the recent timeline
Microsoft announced the update on June 25, 2026, and said it would take effect August 1. As of August 18, the change is already in effect. The company specified a $100 rise for 512GB models and a $150 rise for 1TB models.
#1 Best Overall
- FASTEST, MOST POWERFUL XBOX — Experience next-generation performance with 12 teraflops of processing power, delivering smoother gameplay, richer worlds, and faster responsiveness than any previous XBOX.
- TRUE 4K GAMING UP TO 120 FPS — Enjoy breathtaking visuals with true 4K resolution, HDR, and frame rates up to 120 FPS, plus hardware-accelerated ray tracing for a heightened level of realism.
- 1TB CUSTOM SSD AND XBOX VELOCITY ARCHITECTURE — Reduce load times dramatically with the custom 1TB NVMe SSD and XBOX Velocity Architecture, enabling lightning-fast performance and seamless world streaming.
- QUICK RESUME — Seamlessly switch between multiple games and resume exactly where you left off. No more waiting through title screens and loading bars.
- FOUR GENERATIONS OF GAMES — Play thousands of games from XBOX Series X|S, XBOX One, XBOX 360, and Original XBOX, with many titles enhanced for better visuals and performance on XBOX Series X.
Coverage describes this as the third Xbox console price increase since May 2025. Microsoft’s June 2026 announcement itself points to U.S. increases of $20 to $70 the previous October. For earlier context, Ars Technica reported on the 2025 increases. The latest increases are substantial, but the timeline alone does not establish why every model’s price changed by a particular amount.
Why Microsoft says prices are rising
Microsoft attributes the move to higher memory and storage costs and broader pressure on consumer-electronics components. In its June 25 announcement, the company said console storage and memory prices had risen by more than 2.5 times and forecast another doubling by fall 2027. That is Microsoft’s account and forecast, not a guarantee of another Xbox price increase.
Rank #2
- What's in the box: Xbox Series X console, 1 Xbox Wireless Controller - Carbon Black, Ultra High Speed HDMI cable, Power cord.
- Equipped with AMD's Zen 2 and RDNA 2 architectures, DirectX ray tracing delivers true-to-life lighting, shadows and accurate reflections to create dynamic, living worlds.
- Memory: 16GB GDDR6 w/320 bit-wide bus; Memory Bandwidth: 10 GB @ 560 GB/s, 6 GB @ 336 GB/s; Internal Storage: 1TB Custom NVME SSD
- Gaming Resolution: True 4K; Performance Target: Up to 120 FPS; High Dynamic Range: Up to 8K HDR; Optical Drive: 4K UHD Blu-Ray; HDMI Features: Auto Low Latency Mode, HDMI Variable Refresh Rate, AMD FreeSync.
- Bundled with HDMI_Cable
Microsoft also said consoles are especially exposed because they are commonly sold below manufacturing cost, with revenue expected from games, subscriptions, and services. That is the company’s description of its business model, not independent proof of the cost or margin on each console. The announcement does not establish AI demand as the sole cause, so buyers should treat that explanation cautiously when comparing headlines.
What sunsetting the 2TB Galaxy Black means
Microsoft says it is sunsetting the 2TB Xbox Series X Galaxy Black. “Sunsetting” means the model is being phased out; it does not mean it was recalled or that all units disappeared on August 1. Retailers may still sell remaining stock, but availability can vary, and Microsoft did not promise a permanent discount. Existing owners are not affected by the announcement. There is no basis to assume that resale prices will rise: scarcity, condition, and local demand would determine what a used unit sells for.
Rank #3
- BEST VALUE IN GAMING — Experience next-gen speed and performance in the smallest XBOX ever. The XBOX Series S delivers powerful all-digital gameplay in a sleek, compact design.
- UP TO 120 FPS GAMEPLAY — Enjoy smooth, responsive gaming with frame rates up to 120 FPS, powered by XBOX Velocity Architecture, a custom NVMe SSD, and DirectX Raytracing for a heightened level of realism.
- 512GB CUSTOM SSD AND XBOX VELOCITY ARCHITECTURE — Reduce load times dramatically with the custom 512GB NVMe SSD and XBOX Velocity Architecture, enabling lightning-fast performance and seamless world streaming.
- QUICK RESUME — Seamlessly switch between multiple games and resume exactly where you left off. No more waiting through title screens and loading bars.
- FOUR GENERATIONS OF DIGITAL GAMES — Play thousands of digital games from XBOX Series X|S, XBOX One, XBOX 360, and Original XBOX with backward compatibility. Many titles are enhanced for better visuals and performance. Smart Delivery ensures you always get the best version for your console.
How today’s prices compare with launch
The disc-drive Xbox Series X launched in November 2020 at $499.99; its reported current U.S. price is $799.99, a nominal difference of $300. The Series S launched at $299.99 and its reported 512GB price is now $499.99, a nominal difference of $200. These are not inflation-adjusted comparisons, and launch and current prices may refer to different storage configurations, editions, and market conditions. The launch-to-current figures are reported by VideoCardz.
Which Xbox model fits your budget and games?
Series S 512GB: lowest reported new-console price
At a reported $499.99, it remains the lowest-priced model in the current lineup. It is digital-only and does not offer the Series X performance tier. Its advertised 512GB is not all available for game installations, so a large library may mean uninstalling and reinstalling games. It can suit a digital-only buyer who prioritizes upfront cost, but it is a poor choice for someone who owns physical Xbox games.
Rank #4
- What's in the box: Xbox Series S 512GB console, 1 Wireless Controller, High Speed HDMI cable.
- CPU: 8X Cores @ 3.6 GHz (3.4 GHz w/SMT) Custom Zen 2 CPU; GPU: 4 TFLOPS, 20 CUs @1.565 GHz Custom RDNA 2 GPU; SOC Die Size: 197.05 mm2.
- Memory: 10GB GDDR6 128 bit-wide bus; Memory Bandwidth: 8GB @ 224 GB/s, 2GB @ 56 GB/s.; Internal Storage: 512GB Custom NVME SSD
- Gaming Resolution: 1440p; Performance Target: Up to 120 FPS; HDMI Features: Auto Low Latency Mode, HDMI Variable Refresh Rate, AMD FreeSync.
Series S 1TB: more room without a disc drive
The reported $599.99 price buys twice the advertised storage of the 512GB Series S, but not a disc drive or Series X performance. It is worth considering if you want the Series S form factor and expect to keep more games installed; weigh the $100 premium over the 512GB version against how often you would otherwise manage storage.
Series X Digital: performance without physical-media options
The reported $749.99 price is only $50 below the disc-drive Series X. It retains the Series X performance tier, but cannot play physical discs. That $50 saving may be outweighed for anyone who uses an existing disc library, buys used games, borrows games, or resells them. The price gap is a reported U.S. comparison, not a universal regional rule.
Series X with disc drive: for physical games and the top Xbox tier
At a reported $799.99, this is the most expensive listed model, but it supports physical Xbox games. It is the more practical Series X choice if you already own discs or value borrowing, used-game purchases, and resale. Compare the disc model’s $50 premium with the value of those options rather than treating the Digital Edition as automatically better value.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Ways to reduce the cost or spread payments
Check legitimate remaining stock and bundles
Retailers may still have consoles priced before the increase, but stock and pricing can change. Check the exact model, condition, seller, warranty, and whether the price includes a game or accessory before comparing it with a bare-console price. Do not assume a bundle is a discount if you would not otherwise buy its extras.
Compare used and certified refurbished consoles
Microsoft announced programs for previously played consoles with retail partners, including trade-ins for cash or store credit, but did not establish specific participating retailers, models, or discount schedules. Its certified refurbished consoles may be offered for up to $100 below MSRP; that is a maximum advertised discount, not a guaranteed saving on every model. Check the exact storage and edition, return policy, warranty, included controller, and cosmetic condition. Microsoft’s certified refurbished Xbox page is the official destination, but inventory may be less consistent than new stock.
Understand financing before using it
Microsoft says eligible hardware purchases through Microsoft Stores may qualify for short-term interest-free installments, while partners may offer 0% APR financing for up to 12 months. Third-party terms, credit approval, eligibility, and regional availability apply. Installments can reduce the immediate payment, but they do not lower the console’s total MSRP; review the repayment terms and any fees before committing.
Recommended Free Tools
Buy now or wait?
- Buy now if you need a console soon, find legitimate stock at a lower pre-increase price, or specifically want the 2TB model while remaining inventory is available.
- Wait or shop used/refurbished if you are flexible about condition and model, want to compare retailer promotions, or are not committed to buying Xbox hardware at the new price.
- Compare the disc model carefully if you are considering the Series X Digital Edition: the reported U.S. gap is just $50, while physical discs can provide access to used, borrowed, and resold games.
- Avoid panic-buying based only on Microsoft’s forecast for memory costs. A component-cost forecast is not a promise that console prices will rise again.
For buyers who mainly want access to Xbox games rather than a particular console, compare the hardware decision with the way you actually play. Xbox promotes subscription and cloud options on its Game Pass page, but plan prices and availability are not established here; check current terms directly before including them in a budget.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
