Xbox Series X and Series S prices will rise sharply on August 1

Microsoft is preparing another major Xbox hardware price increase in the United States, with all current Xbox Series X and Series S models set to become significantly more expensive from August 1, 2026.

The standard Xbox Series X with a disc drive will rise from $649.99 to $799.99. The all digital Xbox Series X will move from $599.99 to $749.99, while the 512GB Xbox Series S will increase from $399.99 to $499.99.

The largest increase affects the 1TB Xbox Series S, which will cost $599.99 after previously selling for $449.99. This means the smaller and less powerful console will soon carry the same price that the digital Xbox Series X had before the increase.

Microsoft has linked the changes to rising manufacturing and component costs. Memory and storage prices have placed pressure on several parts of the technology industry, affecting consoles, computers, handheld gaming systems, and other consumer devices.

Xbox hardware prices will increase by as much as $150

The upcoming adjustments add between $100 and $150 to each console model. They also push the standard Series X far above its original launch price of $499.

The new pricing changes the value of each model. The Series S will remain the least expensive current Xbox, but its reduced graphics power and smaller storage capacity may become harder to justify at $499.99.

The standard Series X will continue to provide the strongest performance, a 1TB solid state drive, and a disc drive. However, its new $799.99 price places it in a much more expensive hardware category than when the generation began.

Retail availability is already uneven. Some stores still have consoles at current prices, while other listings have sold out or risen above the official price. Stock may become more limited as the August deadline approaches and more buyers try to purchase hardware before the changes take effect.

Expansion storage is also becoming more expensive

Xbox storage expansion cards are facing similar pricing pressure. These cards allow Series X and Series S games to run directly from additional storage without requiring players to move them back to the console’s internal drive.

Prices vary widely depending on capacity and retailer. Some 1TB cards are now approaching $300, while larger 2TB and 4TB models can cost as much as a console.

The high prices may create another concern for Series S buyers. The 512GB model offers limited usable storage after system files are considered, and modern games can require well over 100GB each. Adding an expansion card could push the total cost close to, or beyond, the price of a more powerful console.

Microsoft has not said whether prices will fall if component costs improve. Current market expectations suggest that memory and storage supplies may remain under pressure through 2027 and possibly longer.

Anyone already planning to buy an Xbox Series X or Series S may find better value before August 1, provided current stock remains available at official prices. Buyers should still compare retailers carefully, as some listings are already higher than Microsoft’s existing recommended prices.