Xbox has emerged as a dominant force in the gaming industry since its launch in 2001. Microsoft has consistently pushed the boundaries of console technology with each new release, transforming Xbox from a newcomer to a household staple. Today, Xbox not only offers cutting-edge gaming consoles but also extends its reach into television, multimedia, and the revolutionary Xbox Game Pass subscription service. As we reach the midpoint of the current console generation, it's an opportune moment to explore the rich history of Xbox consoles.
AnswerSee ResultsLooking to save on an Xbox or new titles for your system? Be sure to check out the best Xbox deals available today.How Many Xbox Consoles Have There Been?
In total, there have been nine Xbox consoles released across four generations. Since the debut of the first Xbox in 2001, Microsoft has continuously introduced new models with enhanced hardware capabilities, innovative controllers, and more. This count includes console revisions, which are updated versions featuring improved cooling systems, faster speeds, and other enhancements.
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 formidable competitor to the Nintendo GameCube and Sony PlayStation 2. This pioneering console marked Microsoft's first venture into gaming hardware and laid the foundation for the Xbox brand. Halo: Combat Evolved, the console's flagship launch title, became a blockbuster success, cementing Xbox's place in the console market. Both Halo and Xbox have since built a lasting legacy over more than two decades, with many original Xbox games still cherished by fans today.
Xbox 360 - November 22, 2005
As Microsoft's second console, the Xbox 360 debuted to a market already familiar with the Xbox brand. Known for its focus on multiplayer gaming, the Xbox 360 introduced numerous innovations, including new accessories and peripherals. The launch of Kinect, a motion-tracking technology, marked a significant milestone. With over 84 million units sold, the Xbox 360 remains the best-selling Xbox console to date, and many of its games continue to be celebrated.
Xbox 360 S - June 18, 2010
Image Credit: iFixitThe Xbox 360 S introduced a sleeker design and made significant internal improvements. The original Xbox 360 was notorious for overheating issues, often leading to the dreaded "Red Ring of Death." The 360 S tackled this problem with a completely redesigned cooling system. Additionally, it offered increased hard drive space, with models available up to 320GB.
Xbox 360 E - June 10, 2013
Image Credit: iFixitThe Xbox 360 E stands out as a unique release, launching just months before the Xbox One. Its design was crafted to complement the upcoming Xbox One, featuring sleeker and less rounded edges. This was also the last Xbox model to feature a pop-out disc drive, as subsequent consoles integrated the drive internally.
Xbox One - November 22, 2013
Image Credit: iFixitThe Xbox One marked the beginning of Microsoft's third console generation, bringing increased power and new applications to the table. It launched with the Kinect 2.0, offering enhanced motion and camera functionalities. The redesigned Xbox One Controller introduced numerous ergonomic improvements, a design still used with minor modifications in newer generations.
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, positioning it as a versatile entertainment system. Games were upscaled to 4K, enhancing visual quality on compatible displays. The console was also 40% smaller than the original Xbox One, making it easier to fit into home setups.
Xbox One X - November 7, 2017
As the final model in the Xbox One line, the Xbox One X offered true 4K gaming. Its GPU boasted a 31% performance increase over the standard Xbox One, with new cooling methods to manage the additional heat. The console significantly improved performance for 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 supports up to 120 frames-per-second, Dolby Vision, and features like Quick Resume, allowing seamless transitions between games. As Microsoft's current flagship console, the Series X continues to push the boundaries of gaming technology. Explore some of the best Xbox Series X games available on this modern powerhouse.
Xbox Series S - November 10, 2020
Launched alongside the Xbox Series X, the Xbox Series S offers a more affordable entry into the Xbox ecosystem. Priced at $299, this digital-only console comes with 512GB of storage and supports up to 1440p resolution. In 2023, a 1TB model was released, providing more storage for gamers.
