Rush to Buy Xbox Series X and S Before Price Surge

Microsoft has officially confirmed a price increase for Xbox consoles, controllers, and eventually games. The updated recommended retail prices on hardware are already in effect, while the new $79.99 price point for first-party titles is expected to roll out this holiday season. If you’ve been considering an Xbox Series X|S or a new controller, it may be wise to make your purchase sooner rather than later to avoid the upcoming price hikes. The new, higher pricing is already active on Microsoft’s official Xbox store, although select retailers are still offering the previous rates—for now.

Xbox Series X

Xbox Series X – 1TB

$599.99 $499.99 at Amazon (Save 17%)

Xbox Series X – $499 (Going Up to $599 Soon)

• Get it at Amazon
• Get it at GameStop
• Get it at Walmart (third-party seller)

Xbox Series X 1TB Digital Edition – $449 (Going Up to $549 Soon)

• Get it at Amazon
• Get it at GameStop
• Get it at Target
• Get it at Walmart (third-party seller)

The Xbox Series X represents the pinnacle of Xbox console performance, delivering smooth 4K gameplay with ease. As a long-time owner, I find it even more satisfying than my PS5. If you prefer physical media, the standard model is the way to go. However, if you’re comfortable with digital-only gaming, the Digital Edition offers a $50 discount while retaining all core features.

Xbox Series S

Xbox Series S – 512GB

$379.99 $273.99 at Amazon (Save 28%)

Xbox Series S 512GB – $299 (Going Up to $379 Soon)

• Get it at Amazon
• Get it at GameStop
• Get it at Target
• Get it at Walmart

Xbox Series S 1TB – $349 (Going Up to $429 Soon)

• Get it at Amazon
• Get it at GameStop
• Get it at Target
• Get it at Walmart

If you're open to an all-digital experience, the Xbox Series S could be the right fit. While it lacks the raw power of the Series X—capping gameplay at 1440p instead of 4K—it remains a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers. Available in both 512GB and 1TB models, I personally recommend the 1TB version due to the ever-growing size of modern game installations and the relatively high cost of additional storage upgrades.

Xbox Wireless Controllers

Available August 13

Xbox Wireless Controller – Sky Cipher Special Edition

$79.99 $60.96 at Amazon (Save 24%)

In addition to console pricing changes, several Xbox wireless controllers will also see increases. Unlike the uniform rise seen on consoles, controller pricing varies depending on the model. Some models remain unchanged, while others have begun to climb. Here’s a breakdown of the upcoming Xbox controller price points:

• Xbox Wireless Controller (Core) – $64.99
• Xbox Wireless Controller (Color) – $69.99
• Xbox Wireless Controller (Special Edition) – $79.99
• Xbox Wireless Controller (Limited Edition) – $89.99 (previously $79.99)
• Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Core) – $149.99 (up from $139.99)
• Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Full) – $199.99 (up from $179.99)

Controller pricing adjustments have been less consistent compared to console updates. However, as these products begin to reflect the new MSRP across retailers, the change will become more noticeable. Consider locking in current prices before they fully phase out.