iFixit Offers Authentic Xbox Parts, But Prices Raise Eyebrows: $599 for an Xbox Series X Motherboard Versus $499 for a New Console

Yesterday, a noteworthy collaboration was announced between iFixit and Microsoft, aimed at providing gamers with official repair parts for both Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X consoles. This initiative strives to prolong the life of these consoles and reduce electronic waste, keeping them out of landfills.

This partnership brings a host of benefits, with a dedicated repair parts store featuring listings for both the disc and digital versions of the Xbox Series consoles. For those inclined to DIY repairs, iFixit is also providing guides to help with the installation of each component. Most parts are priced between $20 and $60, but more integral components like the motherboard assembly carry a heavier price tag, almost as much as buying a brand-new console. For instance, getting a US motherboard assembly for the Series S model 1883 will set you back $299.99—the same as a new Series S console. Meanwhile, the Series X Disk Drive Model 1882 motherboard is priced at $599.99, even though the entire console costs just $499.99.

The cost of these crucial parts may seem puzzling since new consoles come bundled with a controller and a one-year warranty, either at the same price (for the Series S) or cheaper (for the Series X). Additionally, replacing accessory parts like controllers doesn’t seem much more economical. For example, the motherboard of a Series S/X controller is priced at $29.99, though a new Xbox wireless controller sometimes retails at the same price when on sale.

Unless you’ve got a special edition console that holds sentimental value, it appears more logical to opt for a new Xbox rather than just a motherboard. Nevertheless, for those repairs that don’t involve the motherboard, the costs are more reasonable. It’s noteworthy that iFixit is not limiting its offerings to console parts alone; they are also supplying parts for Xbox Series controllers, a welcome addition compared to previous repair options available for Xboxes.

Liz Chamberlain, iFixit’s Director of Sustainability, expressed her excitement about this partnership, emphasizing their goal of keeping Xbox consoles functioning for longer periods and thus minimizing electronic waste. She pointed out the success of their previous collaboration with Microsoft on Surface parts, which enabled users to fix their laptops and tablets, and voiced eagerness to extend such opportunities to Xbox owners.

iFixit’s dedication to simplifying and democratizing electronic repairs continues to earn recognition. Recently, we reviewed their Fixhub Portable Soldering Station, awarding it 4 stars for its superb soldering ability, substantial battery life, precise power delivery, user-friendly repair process, and USB-C connectivity.

Console repair specialists might find this soldering station an appealing tool to pair with the official Xbox replacement parts now available through iFixit. However, for those looking to enter the world of soldering, there are more economical solutions than this top-tier portable station. Regardless, iFixit’s user guides are just as helpful whether using their specialist tools or not.