Xbox Consoles: Complete Release Timeline

Xbox is one of the three major console brands available today, and since its debut in 2001, Microsoft has consistently introduced innovative consoles packed with unique features. What started as an unknown brand has evolved into a household name, branching out into TV, multimedia, and the acclaimed Xbox Game Pass subscription. As we reach the midpoint of this console generation, it's an ideal time to explore the rich history of Xbox consoles.

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

Original XboxXbox 360Xbox OneXbox Series X|S

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 across four different generations. Starting with the original Xbox in 2001, Microsoft has continually released new consoles, each with enhanced hardware capabilities, new controllers, and more. This count includes console revisions, which introduced improved cooling systems and faster performance among other features.

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 Xbox entered the market as a competitor to the Nintendo GameCube and Sony PlayStation 2. As Microsoft's first venture into gaming hardware, it marked the beginning of the Xbox brand. Halo: Combat Evolved was the console's major launch title, becoming a pivotal hit that helped Xbox capture a significant share of the console market. Both Halo and Xbox have since built a legacy spanning over two decades, with many original Xbox games still fondly remembered alongside Halo.

Xbox 360 - November 22, 2005

As Microsoft's second console, the Xbox 360 launched with a well-established brand identity, known for its focus on multiplayer gaming. This console introduced numerous innovations, including new accessories and peripherals, notably the Kinect, which added motion tracking to gameplay. With over 84 million units sold, the Xbox 360 remains the most successful Xbox console to date, with many of its games still celebrated today.

Xbox 360 S - June 18, 2010

The Xbox 360 S featured a slimmer design and significant internal upgrades. It addressed the infamous "Red Ring of Death" issue by introducing a revamped cooling system. The console also offered increased storage, with up to 320GB available across various models.

Xbox 360 E - June 10, 2013

The Xbox 360 E, released just before the launch of the Xbox One, boasted a design that aligned aesthetically with the upcoming console. It featured slimmer, less rounded edges and was the last Xbox to have a pop-out disc drive, as future models integrated the drive internally.

Xbox One - November 22, 2013

Marking Microsoft's third console generation, the Xbox One brought increased power and new applications, opening up fresh possibilities for developers. It launched alongside the Kinect 2.0, which introduced new gameplay and camera functionalities. The redesigned Xbox One Controller, which included numerous ergonomic improvements, remains largely unchanged in subsequent models.

Xbox One S - August 2, 2016

As the first Xbox console to support 4K output and play 4K Blu-rays, the Xbox One S transformed into a comprehensive entertainment system. It upscaled games to 4K, allowing for true 4K display compatibility. Additionally, the console was 40% smaller than its predecessor, offering a more compact design suitable for various setups.

Xbox One X - November 7, 2017

Concluding the Xbox One line, the Xbox One X introduced true 4K gaming to the Xbox ecosystem. Its GPU offered a 31% performance increase over the standard Xbox One, and new cooling methods addressed the additional heat. This console significantly enhanced performance for numerous Xbox One titles, including Halo 5: Guardians, Cyberpunk 2077, and Forza Horizon 4.

Xbox Series X - November 10, 2020

Revealed at The Game Awards 2019, the Xbox Series X supports up to 120 frames-per-second, Dolby Vision, and can boost frame rates and resolutions of older games. A standout feature is Quick Resume, enabling seamless transitions between games. Currently, the Series X is Microsoft's flagship console, and you can explore some of the best games available for it.

Xbox Series S - November 10, 2020

Launched concurrently with the Xbox Series X, the Xbox Series S provides an affordable entry into the Xbox ecosystem. As a digital-only console without a disc drive, it offers 512GB of storage and capabilities up to 1440p resolution. In 2023, a 1TB model was released, providing more storage for gamers.

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-gen Xbox and a handheld version. Both are expected to launch in the coming years.

With its next home console, Microsoft aims to deliver "the largest technical leap you will have ever seen in a hardware generation."