Xbox Series X|S Price Increase: Refurbished Consoles Save You Up to €200 2026

The Xbox Series X|S price increase is now official, making 2026 an expensive year for console buyers. Microsoft raised the prices of its current-gen consoles on August 1, and refurbished options are emerging as a smart way to save up to €200.

If you've been holding off on buying a new console, you're not alone. Across the industry, prices for popular gaming devices have been climbing steadily, and the Xbox Series X|S is just the latest example.

Why Xbox Series X|S Prices Are Going Up

Microsoft isn't the only company raising prices. Over the past few months, we've seen similar moves from Valve with the Steam Deck, Sony with the PlayStation 5, and Lenovo with its new handheld gaming devices. Even the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch at €499.99, a significant increase over previous generations.

Several factors are driving these increases, including rising component costs, inflation, and supply chain challenges. For consumers, this means that buying a new console is becoming a more significant investment.

How Much More Will You Pay?

Since August 1, the price of Xbox Series X and Series S has increased across all storage variants, with or without a disc drive. While Microsoft hasn't disclosed the exact new prices in this announcement, the impact is clear: you'll be paying more for the same hardware.

The price hike affects both the flagship Series X and the digital-only Series S, making it harder for budget-conscious gamers to enter the Xbox ecosystem.

Refurbished Consoles: A Budget-Friendly Alternative

With new console prices on the rise, the refurbished market is gaining traction. Stores like Back Market, PcComponentes, and Amazon offer refurbished Xbox Series X|S consoles at prices significantly lower than the new MSRPs.

According to the source article, you can save up to €200 by choosing a refurbished console. These devices are thoroughly tested and often come with a warranty, making them a reliable option for gamers looking to save money.

• Significant savings: Refurbished Xbox Series X|S consoles can be up to €200 cheaper than new ones.
• Trusted retailers: Back Market, PcComponentes, and Amazon are reputable sources for refurbished electronics.
• Warranty included: Most refurbished consoles come with a warranty, giving you peace of mind.
• Environmental benefits: Buying refurbished extends the life of devices and reduces electronic waste.
• Availability: Refurbished models are readily available in various storage configurations.

Comparing Prices: New vs. Refurbished

To illustrate the potential savings, here's a comparison of typical prices for new and refurbished Xbox Series X|S consoles. Note that prices may vary by retailer and condition.

As the table shows, savings can be substantial, especially for the Series X. However, always check the condition and warranty details before purchasing.

What to Look for in a Refurbished Xbox

When buying a refurbished console, it's important to ensure you're getting a quality product. Look for retailers that offer a warranty, preferably at least one year. Check the condition rating: many refurbished devices are graded as "like new" or "excellent," meaning they have minimal to no signs of wear.

Also, verify that the console comes with all necessary accessories, such as controllers and cables. Some retailers may sell the console only, so read the product description carefully. The background to this story is set out in Nintendo Switch 2 Price Increase: Why Buying Today Saves You Money. A related thread runs through Xbox Series Expansion Cards: SanDisk Optimus GX C50 Price Revealed. Earlier coverage in Xbox 25th Anniversary Series X: Special Edition for $900 shows how the argument developed.

The Bigger Picture: Gaming in 2026

The Xbox price hike is part of a broader trend of rising costs in the gaming industry. With the Nintendo Switch 2 launching at €499.99 and other devices following suit, gamers are facing a more expensive landscape. A closer look at the same subject appears in Nvidia Shield TV Pro Price Hike: 50% Increase Due to Memory Shortage. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Xbox Series Battery Kit: The $19.99 Accessory That Improved My Gaming. The same theme surfaces in Xbox Series Storage Deal: WD_Black C50 2TB at GAME for $199, which takes a different angle.

In this context, refurbished consoles offer a way to enjoy the latest games without breaking the bank. They also provide an opportunity to reduce electronic waste, which is a win for the environment. Context on how this played out before sits in Apple iPhone Price Increase: Why Every Model Costs More Now. A companion piece, Samsung Galaxy S26 Outlet Price, Kindle Colorsoft Deal and Retro Consoles, approaches the same subject from another angle.

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