Yesterday, a significant partnership was announced as iFixit teamed up with Microsoft to provide genuine repair parts for Xbox Series and Xbox Series X consoles. The objective? To help gamers globally maintain their consoles for a longer time and reduce electronic waste.
This partnership brings multiple benefits, including a dedicated store page for both disc and digital versions of the Xbox Series consoles. Users can also find installation guides for each component. While most repair parts are reasonably priced between $20 and $60, some crucial elements, like the motherboard assembly, are priced as high as a whole new console. For instance, the Series S motherboard costs $299.99, mirroring the price of a new Series S console. In contrast, the Series X motherboard is priced at $599.99, strangely enough more than buying a completely new Xbox Series X, which is available for $499.99.
These high prices raise eyebrows, especially considering that purchasing a brand-new console at these prices comes bundled with a controller and a one-year warranty. Replacement components for accessories, like controllers, also carry substantial price tags. An Xbox Series S/X controller motherboard is available for $29.99, the same price you’d pay during sales for a brand-new Xbox wireless controller.
It’s clear that unless you’re intent on repairing a collector’s edition console, the cost and complexity of buying and installing a new Xbox motherboard make getting a fresh console a more appealing option. Thankfully, aside from motherboards, other repairs are more budget-friendly, although the motherboard pricing remains surprisingly steep. However, iFixit also provides replacement parts for Xbox Series controllers, expanding beyond just the console parts.
Liz Chamberlain, iFixit’s Director of Sustainability, expressed their enthusiasm about this collaboration with Microsoft. “We’re thrilled to work with Microsoft to extend the lifespan of Xboxes and keep them out of landfills,” Chamberlain stated. She also highlighted their successful Surface parts collaboration from last year, which has empowered customers to repair their Microsoft laptops and tablets, and now Xbox owners can enjoy this same opportunity.
iFixit’s commitment to making electronic repairs more accessible is commendable. Recently, we reviewed their Fixhub Portable Soldering Station, awarding it a 4-star rating for its excellent soldering performance, robust battery, precise power delivery, ease of repair, and USB C connectivity.
With these new Xbox repair parts from iFixit, it’s easy to imagine console repair professionals considering picking up such a soldering station. However, there are still more affordable ways to start soldering without investing in a high-end station. Regardless of your repair tools, iFixit’s comprehensive guides will serve you well.
