Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →You can download the official Xbox PC app for Windows 11 from Xbox’s app page or install it through Microsoft Store. The app is free; Game Pass subscriptions and paid games are separate. Xbox lists Windows 11 version 22H2 or later as supported.
Download the official Xbox app
Use Xbox’s official Xbox PC app page and select Download the app, then follow the Microsoft Store or Xbox installation prompt. You can also open Microsoft Store from Start, search for Xbox, confirm the listing is official Microsoft/Xbox software, and select Get or Install. Microsoft’s Store installation guidance covers downloading trusted apps and games.
Avoid third-party download mirrors and bundled installers. The official Xbox page or Microsoft Store is the safe route; a work or school administrator may restrict Store access on managed PCs.
Windows 11 requirements
| Item | Xbox’s listed information |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 11 version 22H2 or higher (Xbox also lists Windows 10, version 22H2 or higher) |
| App storage | 150 MB |
| Display | 720p |
| Individual games | Requirements vary by title |
These figures describe the app, not the PC specifications needed to run its games. A game may need much more storage, RAM, graphics capability, processor performance, or a particular DirectX feature. Check the game’s own requirements before installing it. Xbox also notes that Windows S mode may need to be exited to play games through the app. See Xbox’s requirements and app details.
#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.
Install the app and start a game
- Open the official Xbox PC app page and choose Download the app, or install Xbox from Microsoft Store.
- Follow the installation prompt. If Microsoft Store opens, choose Get or Install.
- Open Xbox and sign in with the Microsoft account associated with your games or subscription.
- Allow the app or Microsoft Store to update if prompted.
- Browse PC games or Game Pass, open a compatible game’s page, and choose Install, Buy, or a cloud-play option when available.
- If prompted, choose an installation location and wait for the download to finish. Launch from Xbox or the Windows Start menu.
Menu wording can vary between app versions. A title may not show an install option if it is not available for PC, is unavailable in your region, is not included in your subscription, or is incompatible with your device.
What the Xbox app does
The app is a PC gaming hub: it can surface compatible PC games, downloads, and installed titles, including games associated with other PC storefronts. It also provides Xbox social features such as friends, voice and text chat, notifications, achievements, screenshots, and clips. Seeing another storefront’s game in a combined library does not mean Xbox replaces that store or manages all of its functions. Xbox describes these features on its PC app page.
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.
PC games and Game Pass
Browse the PC catalog, install compatible titles included with a subscription, or buy games individually where available. For a Game Pass download, sign in with the account that has the subscription, check that the listing is available for PC, then install. Catalog availability changes; check a game’s listing for whether it is leaving soon. Some titles also require a separate publisher account or launcher.
Cloud gaming
Cloud gaming streams a supported game from Microsoft’s servers instead of installing the full game locally, which can help on a lower-powered PC. Access depends on an eligible plan, title, account, region, and suitable network conditions; input options also vary by game. Streaming quality is affected by latency and connection stability. The app does not provide access to every Xbox game automatically. Xbox also offers Xbox Cloud Gaming in a browser, subject to the same kinds of eligibility and availability limits.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →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.
Remote play from your console
Remote play streams a game installed on your own Xbox console to a PC. It is different from cloud gaming, which streams from Microsoft’s infrastructure, and from a native PC installation, which runs the PC version locally. Remote play does not install console games as Windows games.
Is the Xbox app free, or do you need Game Pass?
| What you want to do | What is generally needed |
|---|---|
| Download or open the Xbox app | No Game Pass subscription is required. |
| Play a free-to-play game | May be possible without Game Pass, subject to that game’s account and online requirements. |
| Play a separately purchased compatible PC game | Buy the game unless you already have an applicable entitlement; title and account rules apply. |
| Download a game included in PC Game Pass | An active subscription that includes the PC catalog is required. |
| Use eligible cloud gaming | An eligible Game Pass plan and supported title are generally required, along with account, region, device, and network compatibility. |
| Remote-play a game from your Xbox | An Xbox with the game installed and appropriate account and device setup; requirements depend on the game and service. |
Xbox states that Game Pass is sold separately. Plan names, prices, trials, and benefits vary by region and can change, so check the Xbox Game Pass page for current terms rather than relying on an old price. Console ownership also does not automatically grant a Windows PC version of every game.
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.
Fix Xbox app download or installation problems
When the download button does nothing
- Restart the PC, especially if Windows has just updated.
- Install pending updates through Start > Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
- Open Microsoft Store and select Library > Get updates.
- Reset the Store cache: press Windows key + R, enter
wsreset.exe, and select OK. A blank Command Prompt window appears temporarily; Microsoft Store should reopen automatically after roughly ten seconds. - Try the official Xbox download page again.
Microsoft recommends these Store troubleshooting steps in its guides to fix problems with Microsoft Store apps and find or install a Store app.
When the app is installed but will not open correctly
- Go to Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Find Xbox, open Advanced options, then select Repair.
- If repair does not help, return to the same page and select Reset. Resetting can remove app data.
- If the problem remains, reinstall Xbox from Microsoft Store.
Microsoft documents the Windows app repair/reset path in its installation and removal troubleshooting guidance.
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.
When the Xbox app is missing from Store
Check that Windows is up to date and that you are signed in with the intended Microsoft account. Store availability can depend on country or region, family settings, device compatibility, and account authorization. A company or school may disable Store access. Microsoft explains these cases in its guidance on apps that cannot be found or installed and a missing Microsoft Store app.
Changing Store region can affect Game Pass, apps, games, and Microsoft account balances; do not change it just to bypass a listing issue. See Microsoft’s country or region guidance.
When a game will not install or runs poorly
- Confirm the game is included in your plan or owned by the signed-in account, and that it has a PC version rather than being console-only or cloud-only.
- Check available drive space and the game’s hardware and Windows requirements.
- Look for a required publisher account or launcher, and consider age, family, or regional restrictions.
- For a library that appears wrong, verify that Xbox and Microsoft Store are using the intended account and that the title is a PC-compatible entitlement.
- If a game launches but performs poorly, check its CPU, GPU, RAM, storage, and graphics-driver requirements; the app’s 150 MB footprint does not predict game performance.
Repairing the Xbox app alone will not necessarily fix a game installation problem; the title, Store, Gaming Services, or publisher components may be involved.
Xbox app, Steam, Epic, or browser cloud gaming?
| Option | Best suited to | What it does not replace |
|---|---|---|
| Xbox app | PC Game Pass, Xbox account integration, Microsoft/Xbox PC titles, cloud gaming, and console remote play. | It does not make every console game a native Windows game or replace all other PC storefronts. |
| Steam | A broad general PC storefront with community, reviews, and workshop features. | It does not provide PC Game Pass access or Xbox remote play. |
| Epic Games Store | A separate storefront and account ecosystem for titles available there. | It does not replace Xbox Game Pass, Xbox social integration, or remote play. |
| Xbox Cloud Gaming in a browser | Streaming supported games without a native PC download. | It does not install the PC version, and still depends on eligibility, supported games, region, and network quality. |
If you only buy through Steam or Epic and do not use Xbox features, installing Xbox may add little. If you want PC Game Pass or to connect Windows gaming with an Xbox console, the official app is the relevant gateway.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
