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[m14]

(This article was posted on the 14th January but I haven't seen it referenced here so far.)

The UK and other regions are running suspiciously low on Xbox Series X console stocks, why is PlayStation still widely more available?

Everything is an Xbox, but what if you can't buy an Xbox?

www.windowscentral.com

The UK and other regions are running suspiciously low on Xbox Series X console stocks, why is PlayStation still widely more available?​

We know everything is an Xbox now, but what if you want an actual Xbox Series X console? If you're in the UK and looking to buy an Xbox Series X, you might have a struggle trying to find stock of the original console outside of Microsoft's own site, which alone wouldn't be an issue but it doesn't look good to the average consumer.

Reports on social media have flagged a widespread stock issue, and after checking the biggest UK retailers myself, it seems these claims hold true.

What is going on with Xbox Series X console stock in the UK?​

Admittedly when I first saw the post I thought it could be hyperbole, surely it can't be that hard to get hold of an Xbox Series X?

It seems though, I could only find the console in stock at Smyths, which is popular toy store. This was for home delivery only and no in-store stock, and as as indicated by the poster below, isn't providing home delivery to all areas with minimal stock all over the country. I can get it in my area, but many cannot.

After scouring the websites of other major retailers, I discovered the scarcity is real. Here’s what I found:

• Smyths Toys - : Limited stock available for home delivery only, with no in-store availability. Even the home delivery option is spotty depending on your area.
• Very - The console is listed but won't be delivered until February 10, 2025
• Amazon UK - Similar delays, with estimated delivery between February 6 and March 16, 2025.
• Argos - Adding the console to your basket is possible, but no stock is available for home delivery or collection.

• Currys - completely out of stock.
• John Lewis - No stock.
• GAME - No stock.

Now this list isn't exhaustive of every place you can potentially buy an Xbox Series X console in the UK, but they are the biggest retailers and those that your average joe public would be looking to purchase it. It's also particularly unusual that at each retailer I've searched here, the PlayStation 5—often a tough find earlier in the generation—seems readily available across all these retailers. Why wait until February for an Xbox if I can buy a PlayStation right now?

How are stocks looking in the US for the Xbox Series X?​

The issue isn’t limited to the UK. A quick check of US retailers paints a similar picture:

• Best Buy - Out of stock for the standard Series X; only the 1TB White All-Digital is available.
• Target - Out of stock for the standard Series X; only the 1TB White All-Digital is available.
• Amazon - Only 2 left in stock at time of writing
• Walmart - Direct Walmart stock is depleted, leaving only third-party sellers with inflated prices (but yes you guess it, the White one is available)
• Lenovo - Only the All-Digital White Edition is in stock.

The digital edition seems easier to find at least in the US, while the disc-based Xbox Series X is becoming elusive.

Not a good look for kicking off 2025​

You can play Xbox games on all these things, but the console is the most difficult to buy. (Image credit: Microsoft)

To say the mood in the Xbox community is currently tense, would be an understatement. Microsoft's recent "Everything is an Xbox" campaign has received mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a shift away from the company's traditional console-first audience. Pairing this with the widespread unavailability of the Xbox Series X—especially when the PlayStation 5 is readily in stock—is poor optics. Xbox is also gearing up for its Developer Direct on January 23, where new games and updates will be showcased. But what good are announcements for potential new fans if they can't easily buy your flagship console? Other regions like Saudi Arabia, Poland, Germany, and more have also flagged Xbox Series X|S stock fluctuations of late, with Microsoft issuing a statement last year to deny that it was planning to pull Xbox out of the Middle East following widespread rumors.

One theory I had was that Microsoft is streamlining production to prioritize digital-first hardware, further nudging players into its Game Pass and cloud ecosystem. However, even the Xbox Series X 1TB White All-Digital Edition is proving hard to find in the UK, casting doubt on this theory. Another theory is that Microsoft is allocating Xbox Series X|S silicon to its cloud platform instead of retail consoles. Xbox Cloud Gaming runs on Xbox Series X|S chips, and demand for Xbox Cloud Gaming led to queues over the holiday period. Still, you would hope Microsoft could meet demand for remote cloud operations as well as home console offerings too simultaneously, if indeed there is demand. Given that the consoles are sold out, that would indicate that there is demand.

Microsoft's hardware footprint has been under scrutiny in recent years, with near-routine quarterly declines. What if the declines are driven simply by a lack of access to supplies, though? Xbox should be poised for a strong year. Instead, the lack of widespread availability for its consoles risks alienating potential customers. For parents or casual shoppers, the choice often comes down to what’s easiest to find—and right now, that’s the PlayStation 5. Whether this scarcity is an intentional running down of stock, or a result of supply chain issues, one thing is clear: for players wanting a console with physical disc support at least, Sony’s offering is currently the more accessible of the two.

 

[HeisenbergFX4]

Was recently in a Best Buy in Southern Indiana and the only Xbox console they had on the shelves was a black Series X bundled with 2 years Gamepass Ult for $900

I don't know if they have just stopped producing this current hardware or what

 

[Rosoboy19]

I’m guessing the disc XSX is now out of production in favor of the white digital version which may be lagging behind on stock shipments in some places.

Microsoft and Sony both clearly signaling their intentions to go all-digital future with the white XSX and PS5 Pro.

 

[onQ123]

Supply & Demand no one is demanding so they're not supplying

 

[m14]

Was recently in a Best Buy in Southern Indiana and the only Xbox console they had on the shelves was a black Series X bundled with 2 years Gamepass Ult for $900

I don't know if they have just stopped producing this current hardware or what

It appears that way, or that they are at least stealthily phasing out the older models.
The Windows article is focused on the X but there are definitely supply issues with Series S as well.

 

[HeisenbergFX4]

It appears that way, or that they are at least stealthily phasing out the older models.
The Windows article is focused on the X but there are definitely supply issues with Series S as well.

I haven't seen an S on store shelves in awhile either

 

[RetroGamingUK]

Microsoft and Sony both clearly signaling their intentions to go all-digital future with the white XSX and PS5 Pro.

One allows you to add a disc drive at a later date.

The other does not

Clearly different intentions.

 

[Topher]

My guess is they are just not producing many units. They are taking a significant loss on each Xbox sold and are not getting the market share required to make up for it.

 

[Big Baller]

 

[Killjoy-NL]

Who are they going to sell to?

 

[Angry_Megalodon]

People flocking to the stores right now. Everybody wants to be part of XBOX's bright future.

 

[Topher]

Was recently in a Best Buy in Southern Indiana and the only Xbox console they had on the shelves was a black Series X bundled with 2 years Gamepass Ult for $900

I don't know if they have just stopped producing this current hardware or what

My local Best Buys show plenty of stock for the white XSX. Black and S are no where to be found. Same deal here for black XSX. $900. lol.....daring you to buy the damn thing.

 

[laynelane]

Where I live (Canada), at the nearest Game Stop, the Series X boxes are always side by side with the PS5 boxes to indicate they're available. Usually the S too - but not always, just like the PS5 digital only isn't always there. The Xbox consoles are also available on Amazon too.

XBox has always been fairly popular here, though, so maybe that's why there's consistent stock.

 

[RetroGamingUK]

I’m guessing the rate of sales decline in 2024 mirrored that of the US.

 

[HeisenbergFX4]

My local Best Buys show plenty of stock for the white XSX. Black and S are no where to be found. Same deal here for black XSX. $900. lol.....daring you to buy the damn thing.

Did they really think that bundle would fly off the shelves at $900??

 

[Topher]

Did they really think that bundle would fly off the shelves at $900??

Bizarre. I guess that's a Best Buy thing. Console by itself is still for sale at regular price at Microsoft.

Xbox Series X | Xbox

Discover the fastest, most powerful Xbox ever with the Xbox Series X.

www.xbox.com

 

[Nydius]

I haven't seen an S on store shelves in awhile either

There’s only one store in my town that sells general electronics (Walmart) and they haven’t had any Xbox units on their shelves since Holiday 2023. Back in February of last year they put a sign in their display case saying anyone interested in Xbox Series consoles could order on the Walmart website and have it delivered to store.

But they’ve regularly had PlayStation 5’s (including the recent Pro) and various Switches available.

I live in a fairly small town though so that probably plays a role as well.

 

[SweetTooth]

MS is killing Xbox slowly

 

[Unknown Soldier]

Xbox as a dedicated console will be wound down

There will be no dedicated console next gen from Microsoft

 

[Mibu no ookami]

Bizarre. I guess that's a Best Buy thing. Console by itself is still for sale at regular price at Microsoft.

Xbox Series X | Xbox

Discover the fastest, most powerful Xbox ever with the Xbox Series X.

www.xbox.com

It's not a Best Buy thing, it's a retail thing.

Of course, Microsoft has more units available, they have inventory they haven't sold to retail and maybe can't sell to retail.

The 500 dollar XSX is sold out at almost every major retailer in the US. Ironically, Amazon is taking advance orders on some, so maybe they've worked out some purchases from Microsoft.

At best they're phasing out that model in favor of the digital XSX.

 

[Mr Moose]

Someone should inform Jizz.

 

[RagnarokIV]

Apparently all the stock keeps getting bought up and delivered to Essex, maybe my mate DAHGAMING knows why?

 

[Gilgalaad]

I don’t believe you Windows Central! There are lots of Xbox

 

[DenchDeckard]

Had a fucking nightmare getting my sons series x at Xmas. Had to call in a favour to finally get one.

 

[S0ULZB0URNE]

I don't know if they have just stopped producing this current hardware or what

^This and the new 2TB sku is a limited edition.
Moving away from the ability to play physical games.

 

[DAHGAMING]

Apparently all the stock keeps getting bought up and delivered to Essex, maybe my mate DAHGAMING knows why?

I just love it so much, i keep buying them, Series X, Series S makes no difference to me. Im looking to get another 1 of them white series X next, Very had them for £300 but no stock now, im checking a few times aday, If I get 1 Il send the money I saved direct to Microsoft, its a disgrace its that cheap.

 

[RagnarokIV]

I just love it so much, i keep buying them, Series X, Series S makes no difference to me. Im looking to get another 1 of them white series X next, Very had them for £300 but no stock now, im checking a few times aday, If I get 1 Il send the money I saved direct to Microsoft, its a disgrace its that cheap.

Aye I used 20% off code on Very because they the only place who's credit check don't give a fuck if you on the doll
so i claimed a bit more disability for my back and sent it to the lads at Microsoft

 

[damidu]

flying off the shelves

 

[Dorfdad]

Did they really think that bundle would fly off the shelves at $900??

At 900 dollars it can’t even waddle off the shelf. Maybe they are trying to create a scarcity situation and add Apple tax on top.

If they really cared about the console they would bundle 1 free year of GP and reduced the cost 15%. They can’t be losing on the digital console still.

 

[DAHGAMING]

Aye I used 20% off code on Very because they the only place who's credit check don't give a fuck if you on the doll
so i claimed a bit more disability for my back and sent it to the lads at Microsoft

Top boy, can tell your a full khaki tracksuit geexa, not fucking about with the grey. Used to love a wonga loan, built that up to the max to top up my main job shotting and selling stolen phones in Cex, could buy all the gaming gear I needed.

 

[Tams]

I just love it so much, i keep buying them, Series X, Series S makes no difference to me. Im looking to get another 1 of them white series X next, Very had them for £300 but no stock now, im checking a few times aday, If I get 1 Il send the money I saved direct to Microsoft, its a disgrace its that cheap.

Aye I used 20% off code on Very because they the only place who's credit check don't give a fuck if you on the doll
so i claimed a bit more disability for my back and sent it to the lads at Microsoft

Foooooooccccckkiiiiiinnggg laaaaaaaads!

 

[TrebleShot]

Stopped production because a new xbox consoles is coming this year.

 

[RetroGamingUK]

At best they're phasing out that model in favor of the digital XSX.

The prospect of one of the major platform holders not having an option to buy hardware that plays physical media is frightening for me.

It’s the reason I don’t “buy” PC games.

I only tend to buy games where the full game is playable from the disc.

 

[Rosoboy19]

One allows you to add a disc drive at a later date.

The other does not

Clearly different intentions.

“Future” being the key word in my post…do you honestly think PS6 will have a disc drive?

 

[digoutyoursoul]

My guess is they are just not producing many units. They are taking a significant loss on each Xbox sold and are not getting the market share required to make up for it.

That’s their own fault for doing such a lousy job

 

[RetroGamingUK]

“Future” being the key word in my post…do you honestly think PS6 will have a disc drive?

Likely sold separately as per PS5 Pro.

Can’t see them outright abandoning physical media in less than 4 years, suicidal move.

It’s a BIG reason why many choose PlayStation and Nintendo over the likes of PC, mobile and I guess now Xbox for their gaming needs.

 

[GHG]

Had a fucking nightmare getting my sons series x at Xmas. Had to call in a favour to finally get one.

Don't tell me you had to do adamsapple 's dirty work.

 

[Skifi28]

“Future” being the key word in my post…do you honestly think PS6 will have a disc drive?

I believe it will be digital-only by default with an optional drive. The future is all about having a library you carry with you on the next hardware upgrade and it will be very hard to believe they will be abandoning millions of users because of some evil conspiracy theory master plan.

 

[jm89]

Stopped production because a new xbox consoles is coming this year.

 

[adamsapple]

Don't tell me you had to do adamsapple 's dirty work.

He got the Series X didn't he. It gets the job done.

 

[Parazels]

Stopped production because a new xbox consoles is coming this year.

I see two scenarios:

1) They are clearing stock before launching a next gen console.
2) They are slowly leaving the console business.

 

[IDKFA]

I see two scenarios:

1) They are clearing stock before launching a next gen console.

Doubtful. Microsoft have never made money on Xbox consoles and this gen has been a disaster for their console sales. I can't see them releasing a next gen system this year or in the near future.

2) They are slowly leaving the console business.

More likely. They might release a handheld like the steamdeck, but the Xbox console we know is probably about to be taken out back and shot.

 

[jm89]

I see two scenarios:

1) They are clearing stock before launching a next gen console.
2) They are slowly leaving the console business.

 

[HeisenbergFX4]

Stopped production because a new xbox consoles is coming this year.

At least much sooner than people think

 

[Parazels]

More likely. They might release a handheld like the steamdeck, but the Xbox console we know is probably about to be taken out back and shot.

1) Allegedly, Microsoft are working on Xbox OS, which could run on handhelds and consoles.
2) Microsoft have promised a new home console.

 

[Hookshot]

Sorry everyone I saw the "X" and thought buying them supported Elon.

 

[Horseganador]

They are quietly abandoning the market.

 

[adamsapple]

At least much sooner than people think

My Microsoft Reward points are ready.

 

[FingerBang]

At least much sooner than people think

And much more PC-box than people think?

 

[yurinka]

Well, if their sales are very low there it doesn't make sense to have huge stocks.

I see two scenarios:

1) They are clearing stock before launching a next gen console.
2) They are slowly leaving the console business.

I'd say:

3) Retailers don't sell a lot of Xboxes, so they don't ask for big stocks because it doesn't make sense.

Regarding their 'next gen', I think they'll go for home and portable console shaped PCs manufactured by third party manufacturers but running a Windows optimized for tv/portable gaming and controls.

They haven't announced them, so they are far from release.

And well, if built by third parties -even if MS may have a deal with some brand to have the 'official' Xbox- these third parties would be the ones who would ship and sell the new hardware, reducing costs for MS. That would also mean they don't need do reduce stock of current devices to make room for the next ones because they won't run them.