You’re standing in the electronics aisle, or more likely, scrolling through a dozen tabs on your phone, asking that one nagging question: how much is a xbox series s right now? It’s not as simple as it used to be. Back in the day, a console launched at one price and stayed there until a slim version came out. Now? Prices fluctuate like the stock market.
Honestly, the "budget" console tag has been feeling a bit heavy lately. While the Series S started its life as a $299 bargain, the reality in early 2026 is a lot more nuanced. Between the 512GB legacy model and the beefier 1TB Carbon Black and Robot White editions, you’ve got options. But those options come with very different price tags.
The Sticker Price vs. Reality
If you walk into a big-box retailer today, the base Xbox Series S usually starts at $399.99 for the 512GB model. Yeah, you read that right. Prices actually went up a bit over the last year. If you want the 1TB version—which you probably do, because Call of Duty alone will eat half a 512GB drive—you’re looking at $449.99.
It's a weird spot to be in.
You’re paying nearly four hundred bucks for a digital-only machine. Microsoft has shifted their strategy, pushing the 1TB model as the new standard. The 512GB version is becoming harder to find brand new, often relegated to "Starter Bundles" that include a few months of Game Pass Ultimate to sweeten the deal. These bundles usually hover around $493 if they include a decent chunk of subscription time.
Breaking Down the 2026 MSRP
- Xbox Series S 512GB (Robot White): $399.99
- Xbox Series S 1TB (Robot White or Carbon Black): $449.99
- Certified Refurbished (Direct from Microsoft): $329.99 – $379.99
Why is the Xbox Series S price still so high?
You’d think a console that’s been out for years would be cheaper by now. Normally, you’d be right. But the gaming landscape changed. Component costs didn't drop as fast as expected, and Microsoft realized people were willing to pay a premium for that 1TB of internal storage.
Plus, there’s the "Value" factor. When you look at how much is a xbox series s compared to the Series X (which sits at $599 or even $799 for special editions), the Series S still looks like a steal. It’s the gatekeeper to Game Pass.
If you're looking for the absolute lowest entry point into "current-gen" gaming, this is still it, even if the floor has risen.
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The Used and Refurbished Market: Where the Real Deals Live
If you’re okay with a box that’s been in someone else’s living room, the price drops fast. Like, really fast. On sites like eBay or Mercari, I’ve seen 512GB units going for as low as $225.
But you have to be careful.
A lot of these older units have been running for thousands of hours. The internal SSDs have a lifespan, and while they aren't dying in droves yet, a heavily used console might not be the "deal" it looks like. GameStop currently lists pre-owned 512GB models for about $329, which feels a bit steep when you can get a Microsoft Certified Refurbished one for the same price with a real warranty.
Trade-in Values
If you’re trying to offload your old one to upgrade, don't expect a windfall. Most trade-in sites like BankMyCell or ItsWorthMore are offering between $115 and $215 depending on the condition and storage size. It’s better than nothing, but it won't cover half a new Series X.
Don't Forget the "Hidden" Costs
Buying the console is just Step 1. Since the Series S has no disc drive, you are 100% locked into the digital ecosystem.
You can't buy used games at a garage sale. You can't borrow a disc from a friend. You are at the mercy of the Xbox Store sales.
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Then there’s the storage. 512GB is tiny. After the operating system takes its cut, you’re left with maybe 360GB of usable space. A 1TB Seagate or Western Digital expansion card—the only ones that can actually run Series S/X games—will set you back another $125 to $180. Suddenly, that $399 console is a $550 setup.
Monthly Costs
Most people buying a Series S are doing it for Game Pass.
- Game Pass Ultimate: Roughly $19.99/month.
- Xbox All Access: This is a financing plan where you pay about $25-$30 a month for two years, and it includes the console and Game Pass. If your credit is good, this is actually one of the smartest ways to get a Series S without dropping $400 upfront.
Is it still worth it in 2026?
Honestly? It depends on your TV.
If you’re playing on a 1080p monitor or an older 4K TV and you just want to play College Football 26 or Halo, the Series S is great. It's tiny. It’s silent. It fits in a backpack.
But if you’re a graphics snob, the "how much is a xbox series s" question doesn't matter because you’ll be disappointed by the 1440p upscaling. With next-gen rumors (the so-called Xbox "Next") starting to swirl for a 2027 or 2028 release, the Series S is definitely in the second half of its life.
Practical Next Steps
If you've decided to pull the trigger, don't just pay full retail at the first store you see.
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First, check the Microsoft Store’s refurbished section. They often have the 1TB models for the price of a new 512GB. Second, look for the "Starter Bundles" at places like Walmart or Target. Sometimes they include a second controller or a headset for the same $399 price point.
Lastly, if you're buying used, always ask for a video of the console booting up and connecting to Wi-Fi. There's nothing worse than buying a "cheap" Xbox only to find out it’s been hardware-banned from Xbox Live.
Get the 1TB model if you can swing it. You’ll thank yourself when you don’t have to delete and redownload games every weekend.