US console market worst since the early 80s, analyst says

RAM shortages and tariff-driven price hikes have sharply slowed US console sales: Xbox hardware units fell 33% year-over-year in 2026 through August, while PlayStation dropped 25%. Average Xbox prices hit $529 (+26%) and PlayStation $597 (+20%), both all-time US highs.

• US Xbox hardware unit sales fell 33% year-over-year in 2026 through August
• PlayStation unit sales dropped 25%, the lowest since 2013
• Average Xbox price rose to $529 (+26%), PlayStation to $597 (+20%)
• PS5 Pro costs $900, disc Xbox Series X $800, Switch 2 $500