Yesterday marked a significant development as iFixit teamed up with Microsoft to make “official repair parts for Xbox Series and Xbox Series X consoles” accessible to gamers around the world. The aim is to help keep Xbox consoles functional for longer, reducing environmental waste.
This partnership features a dedicated page on iFixit for repair parts specifically designed for both disc and digital versions of the Xbox Series consoles, complete with guides on how to install each component. Most parts are priced between $20 and $60, but some crucial pieces like the motherboard assembly carry a hefty price tag — nearly as much as a brand-new console. For instance, the US motherboard assembly for the Series S (model 1883) is priced at $299.99, exactly what you’d pay for a new Series S console. Meanwhile, the Series X (Disk Drive Model 1882) motherboard assembly costs $599.99, which is higher than the price for a new Xbox Series X console, priced at $499.99.
These prices seem illogical because, for the same amount (or less, in the case of the Xbox Series X), you can purchase a whole new console, complete with a controller and a year-long warranty. The cost for replacement parts in accessories like controllers isn’t much better. An Xbox Series S/X controller motherboard is $29.99, whereas you can often find a new Xbox wireless controller on sale for the same price.
In most cases, unless you’re looking to fix a collector’s edition console, it makes more financial sense to buy a new Xbox console rather than a replacement motherboard. Though, on a positive note, other repair parts are reasonably priced, even if the cost of motherboards leaves you stunned. Thankfully, iFixit also offers replacement parts for Xbox Series controllers, expanding beyond just console repairs like before.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Microsoft to help keep Xboxes operational for longer, keeping them out of landfills,” said Liz Chamberlain, Director of Sustainability at iFixit. “Following our success with the Surface parts collaboration last year, where we empowered customers to fix their own Microsoft laptops and tablets, we’re delighted to extend this opportunity to Xbox users.”
iFixit’s dedication to simplifying electronic repairs continues to impress. Recently, we reviewed their Fixhub Portable Soldering Station, awarding it a 4-star rating for its superb soldering capabilities, substantial battery life, accurate power application, easy reparability, and handy USB-C connectors.
It’s easy to imagine repair professionals embracing this soldering station when working with these official Xbox replacement parts now available on iFixit. While there are more affordable ways to enter the world of soldering, iFixit’s comprehensive guides will still be invaluable, whether you’re using their equipment or not.
