The Xbox Series S is Microsoft’s budget next-generation console, offering 1080p and 1440p gaming at 120 fps in a small, sleek, all-digital package. Since the Series S has an official retail price of only $299, it is an appealing option for gamers looking to upgrade to next-gen on a budget. However, with constrained supply and strong demand, the Series S is very difficult to find in stock at major retailers. This has led to inflated resale prices on secondary marketplaces like eBay and StockX.
What is the retail price of the Xbox Series S?
The Xbox Series S officially retails for $299 in the United States. This makes it the cheapest way to experience next-generation gaming. For comparison, the more powerful Xbox Series X retails for $499, while Sony’s PlayStation 5 starts at $399 for the digital edition and $499 for the disc drive edition. By targeting a lower price point and trimming down some specs like resolution and storage, the Series S manages to deliver compelling value at just $299.
Why is the Series S difficult to find in stock?
While the Xbox Series S offers excellent value at $299, its budget price combined with next-gen power has made it extremely popular with gamers. Demand for the Series S is very high. At the same time, supply chain issues stemming from the pandemic have constrained production of new consoles. Microsoft is having trouble keeping up with the surge in demand. Retailers rarely have Series S consoles in stock physically or available for shipping. This combination of huge demand and short supply has created massive scarcity in the market for Xbox Series S consoles.
How much are Xbox Series S reselling for?
With legit retailers constantly out of stock, many buyers have turned to secondary markets like eBay and StockX to purchase the Xbox Series S. Resellers are taking advantage of the supply and demand imbalance to charge inflated prices over the $299 MSRP. Here are some typical current resale prices for the Xbox Series S:
eBay
| New | $380 – $450 |
| Used | $320 – $400 |
eBay offers both new and used Xbox Series S consoles from various resellers. New systems typically auction for $380 to $450. Used systems have sold for $320 to $400. Keep in mind these prices don’t include shipping costs.
StockX
| New | $390 – $430 |
StockX specializes in brand new, sealed items. Their pricing model is based on actual sales data. Recently completed sales of new Xbox Series S consoles fall between $390 and $430.
Facebook Marketplace
| New | $380 – $460 |
| Used | $300 – $400 |
Facebook Marketplace connects local buyers and sellers. Prices for new systems average $380 to $460, while used consoles have sold for $300 to $400. Since these are individual sellers, prices can vary more widely.
When will Xbox Series S be easier to find?
Unfortunately, the shortages plaguing the Xbox Series S are not going away anytime soon. Demand remains very high, as the console’s $299 price point is extremely attractive to gamers. However, supply chain issues and component shortages are expected to persist through 2022 and into 2023 before improving. This means the imbalance between supply and demand is likely to continue. Resellers will be able to keep charging inflated resale prices due to the ongoing scarcity.
Potential Xbox Series S buyers have two options: pay over MSRP to get one right now from a reseller, or wait out the shortages and try to purchase from a major retailer once stock improves over the next 6-12 months. Paying current resale prices results in overpaying by $80-$160 extra compared to retail pricing. But waiting means going without the console indefinitely.
Tips for finding a Series S at retail price
While extremely difficult, it is occasionally possible to purchase a Xbox Series S from a major retailer at the normal $299 price. Here are some tips to increase your chances:
- Check websites daily for restocks, especially overnight and in the mornings
- Follow Twitter accounts that provide restock notifications and alerts
- Don’t give up if a site crashes or sells out instantly, keep trying
- Have payment and shipping info pre-saved for fastest checkout
- Be ready to buy immediately, don’t hesitate once in stock
- Prepare for the process to take time and patience
With persistence and luck, you may be able to purchase a Xbox Series S from a legitimate retailer at $299 MSRP. But be ready for it to take significant time and effort to catch a restock opportunity.
Is paying over retail price worth it?
Whether to pay inflated reseller prices ultimately comes down to your priorities as a buyer. If you want a Series S right now and money is not your main concern, paying resale prices may be worth it to get the console immediately. But if you are on a budget or can wait, holding out for a retail restock is better to avoid overpaying.
One advantage of buying from a reseller is the convenience of immediate availability and faster shipping times. You’ll also be able to enjoy and start gaming on the Series S sooner if you buy from a reseller at a higher price. But the extra costs involved reduce the value the console offers.
Conclusion
Strong demand combined with short supply has created a shortage of Xbox Series S consoles. This allows resellers to charge well over the $299 MSRP, with average resale prices from $320 up to $460. Series S consoles will remain hard to find in stock at major retailers over the next 6-12 months. Paying inflated reseller prices gets you the console right away, but isn’t the best financial value. With preparation and diligence, you may be able to purchase from a retailer at $299 eventually. Decide whether to pay more now or wait based on your budget and willingness to keep hunting for restocks.