Microsoft Raises Prices for Xbox Consoles and Games
Microsoft has announced price increases for Xbox Series consoles, accessories, and select games, effective May 1, 2025, worldwide.
According to the list published on the Microsoft website, the price changes affected, among other things:
- Xbox Series S 512GB Game Console – $379.99 (was $299.99);
- Xbox Series S 1TB gaming console – $429.99 (was $349.99);
- Xbox Series X (Digital) – $549.99 (previously $449.99);
- Xbox Series X gaming console – $599.99 (previously $499.99);
- Xbox Series X Galaxy Black 2TB gaming console – $729.99 (was $599.99);
- Xbox Wireless Controller – $79.99 (was $69.99);
- Xbox Wireless Headset – $119.99 (was $109.99).
Microsoft explained that the price adjustments were necessary “to take into account new market conditions.” The company acknowledged that the changes could negatively impact consumers, but they also could not avoid raising the price “due to rising development costs.”
Bloomberg notes that Microsoft’s press release does not specify whether the price increase is related to US import duties. However, the company’s quarterly report stated that uncertainty over tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump led to higher costs for manufacturers.
The massive tariffs announced by Trump in early April triggered a collapse of global markets . Against this backdrop, Microsoft managed to become the most valuable company in the world, overtaking Apple. At the same time, the capitalization of both companies fell below $3 trillion.
The US President said that the new tariffs were a cure for the American economy. At the same time, he acknowledged that the US could face problems in the transition to a new trade policy.
