Xbox Consoles: Complete Release Date History

Xbox has cemented itself as a major player in the console market since its debut in 2001. Microsoft has consistently pushed the envelope with each new console release, introducing innovative features and expanding into TV, multimedia, and its renowned Xbox Game Pass subscription. As we reach the midpoint of the current console generation, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the rich history of Xbox consoles.

Which Xbox had the best games? ------------------------------

Original XboxXbox 360Xbox OneXbox Series X|S

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How Many Xbox Consoles Have There Been?

In total, there have been nine Xbox consoles released across four generations. Starting with the original Xbox in 2001, Microsoft has continuously introduced new models, each boasting enhanced hardware, new controllers, and other improvements. This count includes console revisions, which feature upgrades such as better cooling systems and increased processing speeds.

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 as a competitor to the Nintendo GameCube and Sony PlayStation 2. It marked Microsoft's first foray into the gaming console arena, laying the foundation for the Xbox brand. The launch title, Halo: Combat Evolved, became a massive hit, propelling Xbox into the spotlight. The legacy of both Halo and the Xbox has flourished over the past two decades, with many original Xbox games still celebrated alongside the iconic franchise.

Xbox 360 - November 22, 2005

As Microsoft's second console, the Xbox 360 debuted with a familiar brand name and a strong emphasis on multiplayer gaming. This console introduced numerous innovations, including new accessories and peripherals like Kinect, which enabled motion tracking in games. With over 84 million units sold, the Xbox 360 remains the most successful Xbox console to date, and its game library continues to be revered.

Xbox 360 S - June 18, 2010

The Xbox 360 S featured a sleeker design and addressed the notorious overheating issues of the original model, often referred to as the "Red Ring of Death." With an overhauled cooling system and increased hard drive capacity up to 320GB, this revision aimed to enhance the overall user experience.

Xbox 360 E - June 10, 2013

Released just months before the Xbox One, the Xbox 360 E introduced a design that mirrored the aesthetics of the upcoming Xbox One, featuring sleeker, less rounded edges. This model was the last to include a pop-out disc drive, setting a trend for future console designs.

Xbox One - November 22, 2013

The Xbox One marked the beginning of Microsoft's third console generation, offering increased power and a broader range of applications. It launched with Kinect 2.0 and a redesigned controller that enhanced comfort and playability. This controller design has been refined but remains a staple in subsequent console generations.

Xbox One S - August 2, 2016

Introduced as the first Xbox to support 4K output and 4K Blu-ray playback, the Xbox One S transformed into a comprehensive entertainment system. Games were upscaled to 4K, and the console itself was 40% smaller than its predecessor, making it more compact and easier to fit into home setups.

Xbox One X - November 7, 2017

Concluding the Xbox One line, the Xbox One X offered true 4K gameplay. Its GPU saw a 31% performance increase over the standard Xbox One, and new cooling methods were implemented to manage the added heat. This console significantly improved the performance of numerous 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 boasts capabilities such as 120 frames-per-second gameplay, Dolby Vision, and the ability to enhance the frame rates and resolutions of older games. The standout software feature, Quick Resume, allows seamless transitions between multiple games. Currently, the Series X serves as Microsoft's flagship console, and you can explore some of our favorite Xbox Series X games.

Xbox Series S - November 10, 2020

Launched simultaneously with the Xbox Series X, the Xbox Series S provides a more affordable entry into the Xbox ecosystem. Priced at $299, this digital-only console features 512GB of storage and supports up to 1440p resolution. In 2023, Microsoft released a 1TB version, offering gamers more storage space.

Future Xbox Consoles

While no specific Xbox hardware has been announced beyond the Series X|S, Microsoft has revealed plans for at least two new consoles: a next-generation Xbox and a handheld Xbox. Both are expected to be years away from release. Microsoft has promised that its next home console will deliver "the largest technical leap you will have ever seen in a hardware generation."