Key Takeaways
- Microsoft is raising Xbox console prices in the US in October 2025. The Xbox Series X will move to $649.99 starting October 3, per The Verge.
- Expect tighter holiday discounts, more bundles, and stronger pushes toward Game Pass and refurbished hardware.
- Smart buyers can still save: buy before the change, watch for bundle value, leverage trade-ins, and consider certified refurbished.
Publication date: September 20, 2025 | Last updated: September 20, 2025
What Changed and When
Microsoft is increasing the price of its Xbox consoles in the United States. According to reporting from The Verge, the Xbox Series X will move to a new MSRP of $649.99 starting October 3, 2025. The report also notes adjustments to the Xbox Series S pricing in the US, signaling a broader shift in Microsoft’s console pricing strategy.
While pricing occasionally varies by retailer during promotions, a higher official MSRP typically reshapes discount patterns across the board. Expect early-fall stock to transition to the new price point as retailers re-sticker shelves and update online listings.
New MSRP and Timing
- Xbox Series X: $649.99 effective October 3, 2025 (US)
- Xbox Series S: The Verge reports a US price increase; exact final MSRP wasn’t specified in the initial coverage. Watch official listings for confirmation.
What About Bundles and Limited Editions?
Bundles will likely carry correspondingly higher list prices, but they may also pack in more value (extra controller, premium first-party game, or extended Game Pass). Holiday bundles often become the best way to offset a higher MSRP, especially when retailers stack gift cards or store credits.
Why Microsoft Is Raising Prices Now
Price changes late in a console generation are unusual but not unprecedented. Several strategic and economic factors likely contribute to the new Xbox Series X price increase 2025 trajectory:
Hardware Costs and Margin Realities
Component and logistics costs can swing throughout a generation. Even as some parts get cheaper, others (like advanced chips, high-speed storage, or updated cooling components) can pressure margins—especially when performance or reliability tweaks are made quietly in later revisions.
Shifting Currency and Inflation Dynamics
Inflation and currency fluctuations since 2020 have forced manufacturers to revisit pricing across markets. Microsoft has previously adjusted pricing outside the US; bringing US MSRP in line with global realities and current costs is consistent with that pattern.
Game Pass Economics and Value Packaging
Microsoft’s strategy leans heavily on subscriptions. Higher hardware MSRPs can be balanced by subscription ARPU, but the company also needs headroom to run frequent bundle promos (e.g., 3 months of Game Pass Ultimate) without eroding margins. A higher MSRP can sustain those promotions while preserving profitability.
Holiday Positioning and Retail Flexibility
Raising MSRP before the holidays gives retailers room to advertise temporary “price drops” or bundle savings without going below sustainable margins. This creates promotional flexibility during Black Friday and year-end sales.
How the Price Hike Affects Buyers
The immediate effect is obvious: the sticker price rises. But the real question is whether the Xbox Series X price increase 2025 changes the total cost of ownership (TCO) for different types of players.
TCO Scenarios
- Digital-First/Game Pass Player: If you primarily use Game Pass, you may recoup hardware costs by spending less on individual game purchases. The calculus depends on how many full-price games you would’ve bought annually.
- Physical Collector: You’ll feel the MSRP hike more directly since Game Pass savings are less relevant. Look for bundles and retailer gift card promos to soften the blow.
- Family/Secondary Console: The Series S may remain the better budget option if its new MSRP stays meaningfully lower than Series X. Watch for aggressive Series S bundles in big-box stores.
Resale and Depreciation
Higher MSRPs can prop up used prices temporarily, but depreciation still follows supply, demand, and mid-gen refresh cycles. If you’re planning to trade in, the pre-holiday window often yields the highest values.
Xbox vs PlayStation vs Nintendo: 2025 Value Check
Price is only one dimension. Performance, ecosystem, exclusives, and services matter too. Here’s a high-level look to frame your choice as US holiday 2025 approaches. Note: exact prices and bundles vary by retailer and week.
| Console | Typical MSRP (US) | Strengths | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox Series X | $649.99 (from Oct 3) | Top-tier performance, Game Pass library, Quick Resume | Higher upfront cost; best value emerges via bundles/subscriptions |
| Xbox Series S | US price increase reported | Lowest entry price to current-gen Xbox; compact | Digital-only; lower storage and performance vs Series X |
| PlayStation 5 (Disc) | Varies by model and promos | Strong first-party lineup, DualSense features | Services differ; check availability and bundle value |
| Nintendo Switch (OLED) | Varies | Exclusive library; portable form factor | Different performance class; distinct game ecosystem |
If you value subscription access to a large library and Microsoft’s first-party slate, Xbox remains compelling—especially when you can fold Game Pass into the deal. If you buy fewer games and prefer specific exclusives, compare bundle value carefully across platforms.
Should You Buy Now or Wait? A Decision Framework
Use this quick decision tree to navigate the Xbox Series X price increase 2025 timing question.
If you already planned to buy an Xbox Series X
- Buy before Oct 3, 2025 if you find the current MSRP in stock.
- If inventory near you already reflects the new price, target bundle deals and retailer gift cards.
If you’re upgrading from Xbox One/One X
- Yes, upgrade if you want 4K, higher frame rates, and near-instant loading. The generation leap is significant.
- Trade in your old console to offset the higher MSRP; pair with a Game Pass trial.
If you’re choosing between Xbox and PlayStation
- List your must-play games and services. Pick the ecosystem that best aligns with your library and friends list.
- Price compare holiday bundles; one platform may offer a stronger pack-in that changes the value equation.
If you want a lower-cost Game Pass machine
- Watch the Series S pricing closely. Even with a price adjustment, it’s likely to remain the budget-friendly entry into Game Pass.
Ways to Save Despite the Price Increase
You still have plenty of levers to pull. Here’s a practical checklist:
- Buy before Oct 3 where possible; call local retailers to confirm current sticker prices.
- Target bundles that include a recent first-party game or extra controller. Compare bundle value against standalone MSRP.
- Certified refurbished from Microsoft or reputable retailers can knock $50–$120 off, with warranty coverage.
- Trade-in programs (GameStop, Best Buy, Target) often stack with promos. Time it near Black Friday.
- Store cards and cash-back portals: Intro offers (5–10% back or deferred interest) plus portal cash-back can meaningfully cut net cost.
- Price matching across Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and Amazon can secure a lower promo price if one retailer blinks first.
- Tax holidays in select states can save 5–8% depending on local rates.
- Game Pass promo stacking: Holiday bundles sometimes include 3 months of Ultimate. If you were planning to subscribe, treat that as real savings.
Market and Industry Implications
The Xbox Series X price increase 2025 is about more than one console’s MSRP. It signals how platform holders view late-cycle economics and subscription-driven strategies.
Game Pass and First-Party Pipeline
Raising MSRP may help fund aggressive Game Pass inclusions and high-budget first-party releases that keep engagement high. For Microsoft, the subscription flywheel is central: better content drives subs, which justify ongoing platform investment.
Retail Strategy and Holiday Forecasts
Expect retailers to lean into bundle narratives versus simple price slashing. Promotions may emphasize “$100+ in added value” rather than dropping below the new MSRP. If Sony and Nintendo hold prices steady, Microsoft’s holiday play will likely hinge on subscription value and pack-ins.
Final Verdict
The new $649.99 MSRP for Xbox Series X complicates impulse buys, but it doesn’t erase the platform’s strengths. If you can purchase before October 3, do it. If not, chase bundles, trade-ins, and refurbished deals. For players who’ll leverage Game Pass and care about Microsoft’s first-party lineup, Xbox still offers strong long-term value despite the higher sticker price.
FAQs
When does the new Xbox Series X price take effect?
October 3, 2025 in the US, per The Verge’s reporting.
How much will the Xbox Series X cost?
$649.99 MSRP in the US starting October 3, 2025.
Is the Xbox Series S also getting a price increase?
The Verge reports a US price increase for the Series S as well, though the exact new MSRP wasn’t specified in the initial coverage. Check Microsoft’s official listings as retailers update pricing.
Will Black Friday deals still happen?
Yes, but expect value-driven bundles and gift-card promos rather than deep MSRP cuts below the new price floor.
What’s the best way to save on a Series X now?
Buy before Oct 3 if you can. Otherwise, prioritize bundles with games or controllers, leverage trade-ins, and stack cash-back and portal rewards.
Should I consider a refurbished unit?
Certified refurbished from Microsoft or major retailers can be a smart buy, offering warranty coverage and meaningful savings.
Is Xbox still worth it if I mainly play a few big releases per year?
It can be—especially if those releases hit Game Pass. If not, compare exclusive lineups and bundle values across platforms before deciding.
Citations and Sources
- The Verge: Microsoft is raising prices on Xbox consoles in the US; Series X moving to $649.99 on Oct 3, 2025 — theverge.com (article referenced in topic brief)
- Microsoft Store US (for official pricing and certified refurbished listings) — microsoft.com/store
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