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The Xbox PC app is Microsoft’s Windows app for finding, installing, managing, and launching PC games. It also brings together Game Pass features, friends and chat, store purchases, and games from some other PC storefronts. The app is free to use; a PC Game Pass subscription is separate and is needed for games or benefits that require it.
What can you do in the Xbox PC app?
The app acts as a hub for PC gaming in the Xbox ecosystem. Its features include:
- Find and launch games: Browse game catalogs and recommendations, manage installed games, and download supported titles.
- Browse Game Pass: View the available subscription catalog in the app. Game Pass is sold separately, and its catalog and terms depend on the plan and market.
- Connect with friends: View friends and chat across PC, console, and mobile. Xbox Game Bar can provide gaming features while you play.
- Shop: Buy PC games, downloadable content, and add-ons from the Store tab. Microsoft says subscribers may receive discounts on selected games in the catalog.
- See a combined library: The app can bring together games associated with Xbox, Game Pass, and many other PC storefronts. That does not mean every game from another storefront is sold or launched through Xbox.
- Use streaming features: Depending on the game, plan, device, and region, the app can provide access to cloud gaming or Xbox Remote Play.
Is the Xbox PC app the same as PC Game Pass?
No. The Xbox PC app is software; PC Game Pass is a separately sold subscription. The app can be used for functions such as managing games, social features, and store purchases, while a subscription provides access to eligible catalog games and benefits under its plan. Game availability and subscription details vary by plan and market.
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How are downloads, cloud gaming, and Remote Play different?
These are distinct ways to play, even when they appear in the same app:
#1 Best Overall
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
| Option | What happens | What to keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Install a PC game | A supported PC game is downloaded and runs on your computer. | Your computer must meet that game’s own system requirements; the app’s minimum requirements alone do not establish that it can run a particular title. |
| Cloud gaming | A supported console game is streamed rather than installed as a PC game. | Availability and requirements depend on the title, subscription, device, and region. |
| Xbox Remote Play | A game installed on your Xbox console is played remotely. | This is play from your console, not cloud streaming of a game from Microsoft’s servers. Feature requirements and availability can vary. |
The app can also show games installed through other PC storefronts, but a combined library does not make those games Xbox purchases or guarantee they can be launched through the app.
What are the Xbox PC app’s Windows requirements?
Microsoft’s current US app page lists Windows 10 or Windows 11, version 22H2 or higher, 150 MB of storage, and a 720p display as app-level requirements. Microsoft also notes that using the app may require switching out of Windows S mode. These specifications are for the app, not a guarantee that a given PC can run every game; individual game requirements may be higher.
Rank #2
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
What is Xbox Mode?
Microsoft describes Xbox Mode as a controller-optimized gaming experience for Windows 11 PCs and handhelds, with the ability to switch between Xbox Mode and the Windows desktop. Availability may differ by device, so do not assume every Windows PC has the same Xbox Mode features.
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Best Value
- Tri-mode Connectivity: Wired for Xbox, 2.4G & Wired for PC, and Bluetooth for Android. The G7 Pro supports seamless connectivity across Xbox, PC, and Android. Effortlessly switch between modes using the convenient physical mode switch.
- TMR Sticks: The G7 Pro features GameSir's Mag-Res TMR sticks, combining Hall Effect durability with traditional potentiometer performance. This advanced technology delivers stable polling rates for smooth, drift-free gaming with low power consumption.
- Hall Effect Analog Triggers: The GameSir precision-tuned Hall Effect analog triggers provide unmatched smoothness and linear input for precise control. Featuring clicky Micro Switch trigger stops, gamers can easily switch based on their preferences.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate on PC: Experience ultra-responsive gaming with a 1000Hz polling rate on PC, available through both wired and 2.4G wireless connections. This ensures instantaneous input registration, reducing lag and optimizing your performance for the most competitive gameplay.
- GameSir Nexus App: The G7 Pro is compatible with the upgraded GameSir Nexus app, which brings a significant upgrade over the original. It introduces powerful new features such as gyro settings, stick curve adjustments, and button-to-mouse mapping, giving you deeper customization and more control than ever before.
Rank #4
- BREAKER SERIES — Hold nothing back. Ice Breaker keeps it forever fresh with a mix of iced and frosted blues. Part of the collective debut of the Breaker special edition series.
- BOLD STYLE, BUILT TO PERFORM — Define your swagger with a wild, head-turning design. Stay elegantly on target with textured triggers built for every moment.
- RUBBERIZED GRIPS — Hold on to the action with rubberized grips on the back cases, designed for comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- UP TO 40 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 40 hours of battery life so you can keep playing without stopping to recharge.
- PLAY ACROSS EVERY SCREEN — Quickly pair with, play on, and switch between devices including console and PC. Stream games across mobile, gaming handhelds, Smart TVs, and supported VR headsets with XBOX Cloud Gaming.
Rank #3
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Who should use the app?
- Use it if you want a central place on Windows to find, install, manage, and launch supported PC games.
- Use its Game Pass section if you have, or are considering, a separate subscription and want to browse the eligible catalog.
- Consider its social and library features if you want to see friends or gather games from multiple PC storefronts in one place.
- Check the specific game and feature requirements if you plan to install a game, stream it, or play from a console remotely.
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