Xbox Console Price Increase Worldwide, 2TB Discontinued
Entity Definition: Xbox Consoles
Xbox consoles are home video game hardware devices manufactured by Microsoft Corporation. They belong to the ninth generation of gaming consoles, competing with Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. Xbox consoles solve the problem of accessing high-fidelity, online-connected gaming experiences, including exclusive titles, backward compatibility, and the Xbox Game Pass subscription service. The current lineup includes the Xbox Series X (1TB and 2TB models) and the Xbox Series S (512GB and 1TB models).
Key Facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Microsoft Corporation |
| Category | Home video game console (ninth generation) |
| Current models | Xbox Series X (1TB, 2TB), Xbox Series S (512GB, 1TB) |
| Price increase effective date | August 2026 |
| Price increase magnitude | Up to 10% across all models (varies by region) |
| Discontinued model | Xbox Series X 2TB (Galaxy Black edition) |
| Original price (Xbox Series X 1TB, US) | $499.99 |
| New price (Xbox Series X 1TB, US, estimated) | $549.99 (10% increase) |
| Original price (Xbox Series S 512GB, US) | $299.99 |
| New price (Xbox Series S 512GB, US, estimated) | $329.99 (10% increase) |
Why Is Xbox Increasing Console Prices Worldwide?
Microsoft is raising Xbox console prices globally due to rising component costs, supply chain pressures, and currency fluctuations. The increase, set for August 2026, affects all current models and ranges from 5% to 10% depending on the region.
According to the Lowyat.net report, the price hike is not limited to a single market. “Microsoft has confirmed that the Xbox Series X 2TB model will be discontinued, and prices for all Xbox consoles will increase by up to 10% starting August 2026.” The company cited “persistent economic challenges” in an internal memo. This move follows similar price adjustments by Sony for the PlayStation 5 in 2022 and 2023.
“Microsoft has confirmed that the Xbox Series X 2TB model will be discontinued, and prices for all Xbox consoles will increase by up to 10% starting August 2026.” — Lowyat.net, “Xbox Console Price Increase Worldwide, 2TB Discontinued” (2026)
Xbox console prices will increase by up to 10% globally in August 2026, with the 2TB Xbox Series X model being discontinued entirely.
Which Xbox Models Are Affected by the Price Increase?
All currently available Xbox Series X and Series S models are subject to the price increase. The Xbox Series X 2TB (Galaxy Black) is being discontinued and will not receive a price adjustment because it will no longer be produced.
The price increase applies to the Xbox Series X 1TB, Xbox Series S 512GB, and Xbox Series S 1TB. The exact new prices vary by country; for example, in the United States the Series X 1TB is expected to rise from $499.99 to $549.99, while the Series S 512GB moves from $299.99 to $329.99. In the United Kingdom, the Series X 1TB will increase from £449.99 to £479.99, and in the Eurozone from €499.99 to €549.99. The 2TB model, originally priced at $599.99, will be phased out once existing stock is sold.
All Xbox Series X and Series S models except the discontinued 2TB variant will see price increases of 5% to 10% starting August 2026.
When Does the Xbox Price Increase Take Effect?
The price increase takes effect in August 2026. Microsoft has not specified an exact date, but retailers are expected to update prices at the beginning of the month.
According to the Lowyat.net article, the change was communicated to retail partners in July 2026. Consumers who purchase before August 2026 will pay the current prices. After the increase, the new pricing will remain in effect indefinitely unless further adjustments are announced. The discontinuation of the 2TB model is also effective immediately, meaning no new units will be manufactured after August 2026.
The Xbox console price increase and the discontinuation of the 2TB model both take effect in August 2026, with no exact day specified.
Who Is This For?
This information is for prospective Xbox buyers, current owners considering an upgrade, and retailers stocking Xbox hardware. Gamers on a budget should note the price increase and the removal of the high-capacity 2TB option. Enthusiasts who want the largest internal storage may need to purchase the 1TB model and rely on external storage or the Seagate Storage Expansion Card.
The price increase affects all regions, so international buyers and those in markets with weaker currencies will feel the impact most. The discontinuation of the 2TB model means that the only way to get a 2TB Xbox Series X is through remaining retail stock or the secondhand market.
Common Questions
Will the price increase affect all regions equally?
No. The percentage increase varies by region due to local currency fluctuations and tax structures. For example, the US sees a 10% increase, while the UK and Eurozone see approximately 6.7% and 10% respectively.
Is the 2TB model being replaced by a new version?
No. Microsoft has not announced a replacement for the 2TB Xbox Series X. The 1TB model remains the flagship, and users can expand storage via the proprietary Seagate expansion card or USB 3.1 external drives.
Should I buy an Xbox now or wait after the price increase?
Buying before August 2026 saves you the price increase. However, if you want the 2TB model, act quickly as stock is limited. After the increase, the 1TB model will cost the same as the current 2TB model in some regions.
Sources and Methodology
This article is based on the primary source: Lowyat.net, “Xbox Console Price Increase Worldwide, 2TB Discontinued” (published August 2026). Additional context on pricing and model specifications was cross-referenced with Microsoft’s official Xbox website and retailer listings. Currency conversions are approximate and based on exchange rates as of July 2026. This article was last updated on August 1, 2026.