Just yesterday, iFixit announced an exciting new partnership with Microsoft aimed at providing Xbox enthusiasts around the globe with official repair parts for both the Xbox Series X and Series S. The goal? To keep these gaming powerhouses running longer and prevent them from ending up in landfills.
This collaboration has resulted in creating dedicated pages on iFixit’s store for both the digital and disc models of the Xbox Series consoles. Alongside these, they’ve crafted in-depth guides to help owners install each part themselves. While most parts are reasonably priced between $20 to $60, some critical components, like the motherboard assembly, might cost you as much as buying a brand-new console. Take the Series S, for example; the motherboard assembly is priced at $299.99, which is the same cost as purchasing a new Series S console. Meanwhile, the Series X motherboard is tagged at $599.99, whereas a complete Series X console is $499.99 retail.
Frankly, the pricing appears puzzling. Why shell out the same—or in the case of the Series X, more—on a replacement part when you could simply buy a fresh console complete with a controller and a one-year warranty? Even replacement parts for accessories like controllers seem overpriced. The motherboard for an Xbox Series S/X controller also runs for $29.99, equivalent to snagging a new wireless controller during a sale.
Unless you own a rare collector’s edition Xbox, buying a new motherboard seems impractical given the high cost and hassle compared to just getting a new console. On the bright side, most other repair parts are priced more sensibly. It’s comforting to see that iFixit hasn’t just limited the replacement parts to console internals but includes Xbox Series controllers as well, a noteworthy first for Xbox hardware repairs.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Microsoft to extend the lifespans of Xbox consoles,” expressed Liz Chamberlain, iFixit’s Director of Sustainability. “Our partnership with Microsoft began last year with Surface parts, enabling users to fix laptops and tablets. Extending this opportunity to Xbox owners is incredible.”
iFixit’s dedication to simplifying electronics repairs for everyday users is commendable. We recently examined the iFixit Fixhub Portable Soldering Station, awarding it four stars. It stood out for its impressive soldering abilities, robust battery life, accurate power delivery, ease of repair, and handy USB C ports.
It’s easy to envision console repair experts leveraging this soldering station with the official Xbox parts now offered by iFixit. That said, there are less costly entry points into soldering than this high-end portable station, and iFixit’s guides are designed to be helpful whether or not you’re using their official hardware.
So, is diving into fixing your Xbox worth it? With the guides and parts iFixit offers, even a casual gamer can try their hand at it, keeping their console in peak condition while learning a valuable skill.
