Why Your Next Console Costs So Much: Xbox and PlayStation Sa…
Console shoppers face record-high prices and limited relief this holiday season, while the industry braces for a potentially grim sales period not seen since the early 1980s.
Console shoppers face record-high prices and limited relief this holiday season, while the industry braces for a potentially grim sales period not seen since the early 1980s.
Key points - Circana analyst Mat Piscatella says the US hardware market is in its most precarious position since the early 1980s. - For 2026 year-to-date ending August, US Xbox hardware unit sales fell 33% year-over-year, and PlayStation units dropped 25%. - Average US Xbox console price hit $529 (up 26%) and PlayStation hit $597 (up 20%), both all-time highs. - RAM shortages and tariff-driven price hikes have caused Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo to raise console prices multiple times in under two years. - Piscatella suggests GTA 6's November release could help, but availability and pricing remain uncertain.
Timeline - 2023-2025: Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo raise console prices multiple times due to RAM shortages and tariffs. - 2026 YTD ending August: US Xbox hardware unit sales drop 33% and PlayStation drops 25% year-over-year; average prices reach all-time highs. - November 2026: GTA 6 releases, potentially easing sales declines if supply and pricing allow.
FAQ
Q: Why are console prices so high right now? A: Ongoing RAM shortages and tariff-driven cost increases have forced Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo to raise prices multiple times in under two years.
Q: How much does a PS5 Pro or Xbox Series X cost now? A: The PS5 Pro is priced at $900, while the disc version of the Xbox Series X costs $800. The base Switch 2 model is $500 after two price hikes.
Q: Will GTA 6 help console sales this holiday? A: Analyst Mat Piscatella says it might ease declines, but it depends on product availability amid the RAM crisis and on pricing.
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