Xbox customers in North America also have to pay extra for headsets, on top of other price hikes
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Price hikes on Xbox consoles and games are going to hit gaming fans all over the world, but players in North America are going to particularly feel the pinch, as one particular price hike affects them and no one else.
The impact of trade tariffs imposed by the US Government is still not fully understood. Several businesses are braced for the disruption and higher expenses this will bring. Microsoft has responded to the uncertainty by raising prices across the board.
Xbox issues widespread price increases, including peripherals
Customers in the USA are being hit particularly hard. The price of the Xbox Series X model is going up by $100 to $599.99, and the price of first-party Xbox games will also increase to $79.99. However, these price increases are being applied worldwide. However, if you are in the USA or Canada and need a new headset, you will face a higher price than those in other regions.
Xbox wireless controllers are also having their recommended retail prices adjusted. The base controller will now cost $64.99, while the Limited Edition Xbox Wireless controller will cost $89.99, and the Xbox Elite Wireless controller Series 2 (Core) will cost an eye-watering $149.99.
Headset price hikes are as follows: the Stereo headset moves up to $64.99, and the Wireless Headset jumps up to $119.99.
Which Xbox products are affected?
Xbox consoles
- Xbox Series S – 512GB
- Xbox Series S – 1TB
- Xbox Series X
- Xbox Series X Digital
- Xbox Series X – 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition
Xbox Accessories
- Xbox Wireless Controller
- Xbox Wireless Controller – Special Edition
- Xbox Wireless Controller – Limited Edition
- Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Core
- Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
In the U.S. and Canada only
- Xbox Stereo Headset
- Xbox Wireless Headset
We also expect to adjust pricing of some of our new, full-priced games starting this holiday season to $79.99. Those titles purchased on the Xbox Store have the benefit of Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing players to buy a title once and play on console and PC at no additional cost.
Source: Xbox
The notification about the price rises on the Xbox Support website doesn't directly address the US trade tariffs, but instead refers to nebulous ‘market conditions': “We understand that these changes are challenging, and they were made with careful consideration given market conditions and the rising cost of development. Looking ahead, we continue to focus on offering more ways to play more games across any screen and ensuring value for Xbox players.”
With PS5 prices also being raised, and Nintendo hiking prices of Switch 2 games, console gaming fans might find they are being priced out of their hobby.
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