Gaming and Tech in Trouble: Console Prices Could Surge 69% Amid U.S. Tariff Hike — PS5 Pro May Hit $1200

Gaming and Tech in Trouble: Console Prices Could Surge 69% Amid U.S. Tariff Hike — PS5 Pro May Hit $1200

Console prices could soar up to 69% due to tariffs: a PS5 Pro would cost $1200 USD and an Xbox Series X $850 USD in the future

Por Pedro Pérez Cesari el 09 de May de 2025

The ongoing trade war may soon hit gamers and tech enthusiasts where it hurts most — their wallets. A newly updated report from the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) warns of a dramatic spike in prices for electronics in the United States due to tariffs imposed under Donald Trump’s administration.

PlayStation 5 Pro Could Cost $1200, Xbox Series X Up to $850

According to the CTA, tariffs could raise the retail prices of video game consoles by as much as 69.4%, making them one of the most vulnerable product categories. If projections hold, a PlayStation 5 Pro could sell for around $1200 USD, while the Xbox Series X may cost up to $850 USD.

This surge is largely driven by a combination of a universal 10% tariff and additional country-specific tariffs — with China facing up to 145%. Given that 87% of video game consoles are manufactured in China, the impact could be severe.

The report estimates that retail prices could rise by up to $428 USD per console, resulting in a $12 billion loss in consumer purchasing power.

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Tech Products Across the Board Set for Major Price Hikes

It’s not just gamers who are at risk. The CTA’s report outlines price increases across a wide range of electronics — including smartphones, laptops, tablets, televisions, and more.

Here’s a breakdown of projected price increases by product:

  • Smartphones: +30.8% (~$255)
  • Laptops: +34.0% (~$269)
  • Tablets: +34.0% (~$152)
  • Desktops: +24.0% (~$287)
  • Monitors: +31.8% (~$111)
  • Video Game Consoles: +69.4% (~$428)
  • Speakers: +22.3% (~$60)
  • Headphones: +22.3% (~$5)
  • PC Accessories (e.g., printers): +24.8% (~$58)
  • Connected Devices: +22.4% (~$10–$81)
  • Lithium-ion Batteries: +17.9% (~$16)
  • Televisions: +10.7% (~$57)

A Grim Outlook for U.S. Consumers — And the World?

While the CTA’s data focuses on the U.S. market, global tech pricing could also be affected. Industry analysts suggest that major tech companies may opt to raise prices worldwide, not just in the U.S., in response to shifting manufacturing costs, inflation, and supply chain disruptions.

As the U.S.-China trade war drags on, many fear this is just the beginning of a broader consumer tech price crisis.

If you’re planning to upgrade your console or buy a new device, you might want to act fast — before prices hit a new high.

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