The next generation of gaming consoles may come with a significantly higher price tag as companies focus on delivering more powerful hardware. Early reports now suggest that Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox console could cost far more than current models.
Microsoft recently revealed that its next-generation Xbox is internally known as Project Helix. According to the company’s new Xbox chief, Asha Sharma, the upcoming console will function as a PC and console hybrid, allowing players to run both Xbox and PC games natively.
A new report indicates that the device could be priced around $1,000 or more, with some estimates suggesting it could reach $1,200.
Possible pricing details
During a livestream discussion about Project Helix, well-known hardware tipster Moore’s Law is Dead claimed that the next-generation Xbox could be more powerful than the upcoming PlayStation 6 but may launch at a steep price.
“I think Sony is going for a more PS4 like approach next-gen, and Xbox is building a bridge out of the console market, and so they’ll probably charge $1,000 (roughly Rs. 91,900) or more for this thing,” the tipster said.
The leaker also analysed the expected cost of internal components and suggested that Microsoft might price the console at around $999 if the company takes an aggressive approach. However, the more likely price could be closer to $1,200 (roughly Rs. 110,300), though it is unlikely to exceed $1,500 (roughly Rs. 137,865).
Performance focus for next-gen Xbox
Sharma previously said the upcoming console “will lead in performance and play your Xbox and PC games.” Her statement supports earlier reports that the PC-console hybrid Xbox may deliver higher performance than the next-generation PlayStation console.
In October 2025, former Xbox president Sarah Bond also hinted at a premium positioning for the device. She described the next-generation console as a “very premium, very high-end curated experience.”
Rising hardware costs impacting consoles
Prices of gaming hardware components such as memory, storage, and GPUs have increased in recent months due to strong AI-driven demand for chips.
For reference, both the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X launched in 2020 at $499.99 in the US. After price hikes over the past year, the disc versions now cost $550 and $650, respectively.
Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch 2 launched in the US last year at $449.99 and has already sold over 17 million units. A recent report also suggested that Nintendo could consider increasing the console’s price in 2026.
Launch timeline uncertainty
Beyond pricing concerns, the release schedule for next-generation consoles may also shift due to memory and storage shortages. Earlier reports suggested that both the next Xbox and the PlayStation 6 could launch around 2027.
However, newer leaks indicate that the PS6 could be delayed until 2029, while Microsoft is reportedly not fully internally committed to a 2027 launch window. Both Sony and Microsoft have yet to officially confirm their next-generation console timelines.
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