Microsoft just increased all Xbox prices: Grab one before the hikes go into effect<span class=caption-credit> (Microsoft)</span>
Xbox Price Hike 2024: Microsoft Increases Console and Controller Prices – Act Fast
Microsoft just increased all Xbox prices: Grab one before the hikes go into effect (Image: Microsoft)
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Xbox Price Increases Overview
Gaming enthusiasts face significant changes as Microsoft implements substantial price increases across its Xbox console lineup effective May 1, 2024. The price hikes affect both consoles and controllers, marking a notable shift in Microsoft’s pricing strategy.
New Xbox Console Prices
- Xbox Series S 512GB: $380 (25% increase from $300)
- Xbox Series S 1TB: $430 (22% increase from $350)
- Xbox Series X 1TB Digital: $550 (22% increase from $450)
- Xbox Series X 1TB with Blu-ray: $600 (20% increase from $500)
- Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition: $730 (22% increase from $600)
Current Xbox Deals
Despite the announced price increases, several retailers still offer Xbox consoles at their previous prices. This presents a limited-time opportunity for gamers to secure their preferred console before the new pricing takes effect.
Best Available Deals
- Xbox Series S 512GB: Available for $274 (Over $100 savings)
- Xbox Series S 1TB: Found at $347 (Significant discount)
- Xbox Series X 1TB Digital: Priced at $448 (Over $100 off new MSRP)
- Xbox Series X with Blu-ray: Limited availability at pre-increase prices
Important Buying Considerations
Before making a purchase decision, consumers should consider several key factors about the current Xbox ecosystem and future developments.
Key Considerations
- Current platform is five years old
- Mid-gen “Brooklin” refresh reportedly canceled
- New Xbox generation expected around 2028
- Increasing availability of Xbox exclusives on PS5
- Storage capacity implications for digital consoles
Controller and Accessory Prices
The price increases extend beyond consoles to include controllers and gaming accessories, though current deals still offer significant savings.
Controller Price Updates
- Standard controllers now start at $65
- Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 tops at $200
- Current deals available from $45 for standard controllers
- Elite Series 2 Core available at $101 (33% off new MSRP)
Future Outlook and Updates
Microsoft’s pricing strategy reflects broader changes in the gaming industry, with implications for future hardware releases and digital gaming trends.
Future Developments
- Game prices increasing to $79.99 for new releases
- Potential “cloud hybrid” machine in development for 2028
- Evolving Xbox exclusive game strategy
- Global impact of price increases across markets
Update Note
As of May 2, 2024, the Xbox Series X with optical disc drive is becoming harder to find at pre-increase prices, while other models and controllers remain available at previous price levels. Consumers interested in purchasing should act quickly to secure the best deals.