Xbox, one of the three major console brands available today, has come a long way since its debut in 2001. Microsoft has consistently introduced innovative consoles with unique features at each release, transforming Xbox from an unknown entity into a household name. The brand has expanded beyond gaming into TV, multimedia, and its renowned Xbox Game Pass subscription service. As we reach the midpoint of the current console generation, it's an opportune time to explore the rich history of Xbox consoles.

How Many Xbox Consoles Have There Been?

In total, Microsoft has released nine Xbox consoles across four distinct generations. The journey began with the first Xbox in 2001, followed by subsequent releases that brought new hardware capabilities, innovative controllers, and more. This count includes console revisions, which featured enhanced cooling, faster performance, and other improvements.

Latest Budget Option### Xbox Series S (512GB - Robot White)

1See it at AmazonEvery Xbox Console in Order of Release

Xbox - November 15, 2001

Launched in November 2001, the original Xbox entered the market to compete with the Nintendo GameCube and Sony PlayStation 2. This was Microsoft's first foray into the console world, setting the stage for the Xbox brand's legacy. Halo: Combat Evolved, the major launch title, became a smash hit, helping Xbox carve out its niche in the console market. Both Halo and Xbox have since built a legacy that spans over two decades. Many of the best original Xbox games remain iconic today.

Xbox 360 - November 22, 2005

Microsoft's second console, the Xbox 360, debuted to an audience already familiar with the Xbox brand. It emphasized multiplayer gaming and introduced several innovations, including new accessories and peripherals. The launch of Kinect, which enabled motion tracking in games, was a notable highlight. With over 84 million units sold, the Xbox 360 remains the best-selling Xbox console to date. Its library of games continues to be celebrated.

Xbox 360 S - June 18, 2010

Xbox 360 E - June 10, 2013

Xbox One - November 22, 2013

Xbox One S - August 2, 2016

With the Xbox One S, Microsoft introduced the first Xbox console to support 4K output and function as a 4K Blu-ray player. This model allowed games to be upscaled to 4K, enhancing visual quality on compatible displays. Additionally, the One S was 40% smaller than its predecessor, making it a more compact entertainment system.

Xbox One X - November 7, 2017

Marking the culmination of the Xbox One line, the Xbox One X was the first Xbox to offer true 4K gameplay. It boasted a 31% increase in GPU performance compared to the standard Xbox One, along with new cooling methods to manage heat. It significantly improved performance on many Xbox One titles, including Halo 5: Guardians, Cyberpunk 2077, and Forza Horizon 4.

Xbox Series X - November 10, 2020

Unveiled at The Game Awards 2019, the Xbox Series X supports up to 120 frames-per-second, Dolby Vision, and can enhance frame rates and resolutions of older games. A key software feature, Quick Resume, allows seamless transitions between multiple games. As Microsoft's current flagship console, the Series X offers a top-tier gaming experience.

Xbox Series S - November 10, 2020

Launched simultaneously with the Series X, the Xbox Series S provides a more affordable entry into the Xbox ecosystem at $299. It's a digital-only console without a disc drive and features 512GB of storage with capabilities up to 1440p resolution. In 2023, a 1TB model was released, offering more storage for gamers.

Future Xbox Consoles