August is here, but it’s still not easy to find an Xbox Series X in stock. Neither the Xbox Series X or the Series S are ever readily available, but restocks occur at major retailers just about every week. While we have yet to see an Xbox Series X restock this week, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a few random drops before the week ends. Xbox Series X restocks tend to sell out almost immediately, while Series S units tend to remain in stock for hours (sometimes even days). With that in mind, you’ll want to stay ready and keep a close watch on the direct Xbox Series X listings. Keep an eye out for Xbox Series X All Access bundles as well, which tend to stick around much longer than standalone consoles–these will technically even save you money long-term if you were already planning on subscribing to Game Pass.
Microsoft’s own Console Purchase Pilot program offers another way to get your hands on the new Xbox, but there’s no word on when the next wave of Xbox Insiders will be invited to buy a Series X.
Where to buy an Xbox Series X: Check availability
In the meantime, you can check the Xbox Series X listings at major retailers as well as the latest restock news below. It could be a few weeks before you actually get the system once you order it, so keep that in mind when planning your downtime. As of now, you still can’t really find the console in retail stores without a pickup order. While you can more easily buy the Xbox Series X above MSRP in bundles or on reseller sites like StockX, we do recommend waiting to buy the new Xbox for its list price of $500.
Xbox Series X restocks at Target
Target’s Xbox Series X restock strategy has changed pretty dramatically recently; the retailer’s new policy is that the Xbox Series X and S can now be sold as soon as inventory is available, rather than waiting for set drop dates. This means we’re now seeing Xbox Series X availability nearly every day at Target–however, this is only for certain locations with stock extremely limited. As such, you should make sure your zip code is updated before checking availability at Target. Both Order Pickup and Drive Up will be available for online orders, but no in-store console purchases are allowed.
Xbox Series X restocks at GameStop
GameStop tends to sell the Xbox Series X and S in the form of pricey bundles that include accessories like an extra controller or Game Pass. It most recently restocked the Xbox Series X in a bundle on July 15. On June 24, it had Xbox Series X All Access bundles available.
Xbox Series X restocks at Best Buy
Best Buy restocked the Xbox Series X and Series S online on July 14. The retailer most recently restocked the Xbox Series S on July 29. While Best Buy didn’t have any consoles on store shelves around launch, recent restocks have sometimes included an option for in-store pickup. The latest restock was the fourth time Best Buy replenished its stock this month.
Xbox Series X restocks at Walmart
Walmart last restocked the Xbox Series X on July 29, with Xbox stock staying available for several minutes before eventually selling out. Walmart tends to announce restocks a few hours ahead of time and release stock in waves every 10 minutes.
Xbox Series X restocks at Amazon
Amazon restocked the Xbox Series X during Prime Day 2021 on June 22, but it sold out incredibly fast. The Series S, however, stayed in stock for several hours before selling out. Amazon has had very little Xbox Series X|S inventory since the consoles first launched last November, and it doesn’t announce restocks ahead of time. Amazon’s listings even say, “We don’t know when or if this item will be back in stock.”
When will Xbox Series X|S stock stabilize?
Microsoft initially said that Xbox Series X|S stock would be “constrained through at least June,” but it’s looking like consoles will be in short supply all summer long. Microsoft hasn’t shared an update on the stock situation for several months, though, and Xbox shortages will likely continue for some time due to the global chip shortage. The widespread semiconductor shortage is affecting several different industries, including console production as well as cars and other tech. The shortage has been “steadily worsening since last year,” according to The Guardian, and shows no sign of improving right now.
How to buy an Xbox Series X: Tips and tricks
Securing the Xbox Series X|S isn’t impossible; it’s largely a matter of luck and being ready at the right time. However, here are some things to keep in mind if you’re looking to buy a new Xbox (plus, check out where to buy the official Xbox Wireless Headset).
Follow restock accounts on Twitter and turn on notifications: When it comes to buying an Xbox Series X, it’s helpful to follow Twitter accounts that tweet about restocks. You may want to turn on notifications for those accounts as well, though keep in mind some of them tweet about deals and other news as well. Wario64 is a great account to follow, as is Xbox Stock Alerts. Of course, we tweet about Xbox restocks on our GameSpot Deals account as well.
Follow a Twitch bot tracking console restocks in real time: Twitch user killercam1020 has a 24/7 stream that uses a bot to track restocks for both the Xbox Series X|S and PS5 at major retailers. The constantly moving wall of text usually shows “Out of Stock” at all stores, but when the bot detects the Series X being in stock somewhere, you’ll be one of the first to know, if you’re monitoring the stream. You can also follow Cameron Ritz, who runs the stream, on Twitter for updates.
Don’t buy from strangers on Twitter: It’s never a good idea to buy the Xbox Series X from a random on Twitter who’s offering it to you at only a slight markup. Even if the account is verified and seems legit, Twitter scams are rampant, and you don’t want to risk losing hundreds of dollars. Stick with major retailers and try to buy at list price.
Stay logged in at major retailers and ensure info is up to date: To help checkout go as smoothly as possible, it’s best to have up-to-date accounts at all major retailers, such as GameStop and Walmart. Double-check that your shipping and billing information is accurate as well–you don’t want to be updating these sections during a restock when the Series X could sell out any second.
Be ready at exact restock times when announced beforehand: Generally, Xbox Series X restocks happen without much warning, but Walmart and GameStop in particular are known to announce restocks beforehand, though this could range from days prior to an hour before the restock. These pre-announced restocks can sell out particularly fast, but being ready at your computer with payment information on hand will give you the best chance at snagging an Xbox Series X.
Keep an eye on smaller retailers: Stores like Amazon and Best Buy aren’t the only places to buy an Xbox Series X. You can also find next-gen consoles at stores like Newegg and Antonline. Stores that require certain membership can also be a good option, like the Exchange (military only) and Costco.
Know whether you’re willing to buy a bundle: Some retailers only sell the Xbox Series X in expensive bundles–these include the console along with other items like a bonus controller, a Game Pass subscription, and games. You’re paying a premium here to get products you may or may not want, so you should consider if you’re willing to pay above MSRP just to own the Xbox Series X.
Xbox Series X|S accessories
The great thing about Xbox Series X accessories is that the vast majority of products that were compatible with Xbox One work with the Series X and S as well, including headsets and controllers.
New Xbox Wireless Controllers released alongside the Xbox Series X and Series S, and they’re available in Carbon Black, Robot White, and Shock Blue. They feature a more ergonomic design; textured grips on the bumpers, triggers, and back case; and an Elite controller-inspired hybrid D-pad for improved precision. The updated controllers also have a new integrated Share button for capturing and recording gameplay moments.
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