Microsoft Is Raising Xbox Prices — But You Can Still Buy at the Old Price
If you have been on the fence about picking up a new Xbox console, the clock is officially ticking. Microsoft has announced that the prices of all Xbox models will increase in August 2026 — the second time in less than a year that the company has raised its prices. With memory costs continuing to disrupt industries across the board, from automotive to consumer electronics, this latest hike is unlikely to be the last. The good news? Several major retailers are already running discounts on both the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X, giving shoppers a genuine opportunity to lock in savings before the new pricing takes effect.
In this article, we break down exactly what is changing, which deals are currently available, and which Xbox model makes the most sense for your needs and budget.
Why Are Xbox Prices Going Up?
Microsoft has cited ongoing increases in memory component costs as a primary driver of the upcoming price changes. This is not an issue isolated to gaming — rising memory prices have impacted everything from smartphones and laptops to automobiles that rely on onboard computing systems. As these supply chain pressures persist, hardware manufacturers have little choice but to pass some of those costs on to consumers.
For Xbox buyers, the impact is significant. The flagship Xbox Series X, currently priced at $649.99, will jump to $799.99 in August — an increase of $150. The more compact Xbox Series S, currently $399.99, will rise to $499.99, a full $100 more than today's price. That means if you buy now, you are not just getting a discount through current sale pricing — you are also avoiding a permanent price increase that will likely remain in place for the foreseeable future.
Xbox Series X Deals: Save Over $75 Right Now
The Xbox Series X is Microsoft's most powerful gaming console, designed for players who want the best possible experience. It delivers fast, high-fidelity 4K gameplay, comes equipped with a 1TB storage drive, and includes a built-in 4K Blu-ray disc player for physical game and movie collections. For anyone planning to dive into major upcoming releases — including the highly anticipated GTA VI later this year — the Series X is the recommended choice.
Right now, two major retailers have the Xbox Series X (1TB, disc drive) on sale at a notable discount from the regular $649.99 price:
- Walmart: $573 (saving $76.99 off the standard price)
- Target: $573.99 (saving $76 off the standard price)
Both deals represent the best current pricing on the 1TB disc-drive model. When you factor in that the same console will cost $799.99 starting in August, buyers at today's sale prices are effectively saving over $225 compared to what they would pay just a month from now. That is a compelling reason to act sooner rather than later.
Whether you choose Walmart or Target likely comes down to personal preference or local availability, as the price difference between the two is negligible. If you are a Target Circle Card member, it may also be worth checking whether any additional stacking discounts apply to push the price down further.
Xbox Series X vs. Xbox Series S: Which One Should You Buy?
Before diving into the Series S deals, it is worth taking a moment to understand how the two consoles differ — because the right choice depends entirely on how and where you play.
The Xbox Series X is the full-power option. It supports true 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second, includes a disc drive for physical media, and offers the most future-proof experience Microsoft currently offers. It is the larger of the two consoles, but that extra size comes with extra capability.
The Xbox Series S, by contrast, is a smaller, disc-free console aimed at digital-first gamers. It tops out at 2560 x 1440 QHD resolution rather than native 4K, but it plays the same library of Xbox and Game Pass titles. It is a great fit for players with smaller displays, those who prefer the convenience of an all-digital game library, or anyone simply looking for a more affordable entry point into the Xbox ecosystem.
Xbox Series S Deals: Best Prices Before the August Hike
If the Series S is the right fit for your setup, the current deal landscape is equally encouraging. The console's regular price of $399.99 is rising to $499.99 in August, so acting now saves you at least $100 on future pricing alone.
Here are the best current deals on the Xbox Series S (512GB, disc-free):
- Dell: $349.99 — This is currently the lowest price available anywhere, representing a $50 discount off the standard retail price and a $150 saving versus the upcoming August price.
- Target: $379.99 — Slightly more expensive than Dell, but worth considering if you prefer in-store pickup or have Target Circle Card discounts that could reduce the final price further.
Dell's $349.99 price point is the standout deal here and is the one to grab if you are comfortable shopping online and do not need in-store convenience.
Should You Buy an Xbox Now or Wait?
The answer is almost certainly: buy now. Between the current sale discounts and the looming permanent price increases, waiting costs you money in every scenario. Whether you opt for the powerful Series X or the compact and affordable Series S, the window to save meaningfully is open today — and it will close in August.
If you have been eyeing the Xbox Series X for GTA VI or any other major upcoming release, the combination of sale pricing and pre-hike savings makes this one of the best moments to buy a new Xbox console in recent memory. Do not let the deadline pass before you take advantage.