If you’ve been thinking about buying a new Xbox, you may want to do it sooner rather than later.
Microsoft has announced another global price increase for Xbox consoles that takes effect on August 1, 2026. Depending on the model, gamers will pay between $100 and $150 more, while the company’s 2TB console is being discontinued entirely.
The timing couldn’t be more interesting. The announcement landed on the same day that Grand Theft Auto VI preorders officially went live, meaning one of the biggest days in gaming also brought news that buying a new Xbox is about to become a lot more expensive. What a rollercoaster of emotions.
Xbox Price Increase 2026: What’s Changing?
- 512GB Xbox models: Price increasing by $100
- 1TB Xbox models: Price increasing by $150
- 2TB Xbox model: Being discontinued
Effective Date: August 1, 2026
The new pricing will apply worldwide, meaning players across multiple regions can expect to pay more for Xbox hardware beginning in August.
Why Is Microsoft Raising Xbox Prices?
According to Microsoft, the increase comes down to one major factor: rising hardware costs. The company says storage and memory prices have increased by more than 2.5 times over the past year and expects another significant increase before the end of 2027.
Microsoft also explained that unlike phones, laptops and many other consumer electronics, gaming consoles are traditionally sold with very slim profit margins, or even at a loss. Companies generally recover those costs later through game sales, accessories and subscription services like Xbox Game Pass.
After working with suppliers for several months in an effort to avoid another increase following last year’s price hike, Microsoft says higher manufacturing costs ultimately made the decision unavoidable.
New Programs Aim to Make Xbox More Affordable
While higher prices aren’t welcome news, Microsoft also announced several new programs intended to help players purchase Xbox hardware without paying the full amount upfront.
- Buy Now, Pay Later: Eligible purchases through Microsoft Stores can now be split into predictable, interest-free installments.
- 0% APR Financing: Eligible Xbox purchases through Amazon can be financed for up to 12 months with no interest.
- Trade-In Program: Participating retailers will soon allow customers to trade in older Xbox consoles for cash or store credit.
- Certified Refurbished Consoles: Microsoft is expanding its refurbished console program with discounts of up to $100 off MSRP.
Xbox’s Big Holiday Lineup Is Still Packed
With the higher console prices being announced, Xbox did their best to give a nudge to gamers about everything expected to come out within the next year. Naturally, this is supposed to help soften the blow, so to say, as backlash to this announcement is expected.
The company highlighted several major upcoming releases, including:
- Grand Theft Auto VI
- Gears of War: E-Day
- Halo: Campaign Evolved
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4
- Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced
- Madden NFL 27
The GTA 6 Preorder Timing Makes This Feel Even Bigger
For a lot of gamers, today was supposed to be all about locking in a preorder for Grand Theft Auto VI. Instead, Xbox players now find themselves digesting news that the cost of buying a new console is about to jump significantly.
There’s no indication Microsoft intentionally chose the same day GTA 6 preorders went live, but the timing certainly raised some eyebrows. GTA 6 has already faced some gripes about the pricing of their releases, starting at $79.99. However, most have pointed out that the detail and track record of Rockstar Games is well worth the investment to play the most anticipated game in history.
If you’ve already been planning to buy an Xbox, purchasing before August 1 could save you between $100 and $150. If that’s not possible, Microsoft’s financing options, refurbished consoles and upcoming trade-in program may help soften the impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the new Xbox prices take effect?
The new worldwide Xbox pricing begins on August 1, 2026.
How much are Xbox consoles increasing?
512GB models will increase by $100, while 1TB models will increase by $150.
Why is Microsoft increasing Xbox prices?
Microsoft says rising storage and memory costs, along with broader component price increases across the electronics industry, are driving the decision.
Is Microsoft discontinuing any Xbox consoles?
Yes. Microsoft confirmed it is discontinuing its 2TB Xbox model as part of the August 2026 pricing changes.
