In July 2024, Microsoft announced higher US prices for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass, alongside a new Console Standard plan that would not include day-one releases or cloud gaming. The announcement also ended new sign-ups for Game Pass for Console, while allowing existing subscribers to keep renewing as long as recurring billing stayed active. These are historical details, not a guide to current Game Pass plans or prices.
What changed in the July 2024 announcement?
Microsoft’s July 9, 2024 announcement combined three changes: price increases for two subscriptions, a new console tier with fewer features than Ultimate, and a restriction on new subscriptions to Game Pass for Console. The quoted rationale was that Microsoft wanted to offer “different prices and plans, so players can find what works best for them.” That statement explains the company’s stated approach, but does not establish a specific reason for the increases.
US monthly prices announced
| Subscription | Previous US monthly price | Announced US monthly price | Timing in the announcement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Game Pass Ultimate | $16.99 | $19.99 | For new subscribers, the reported change began July 10, 2024. Existing recurring subscribers were to see the new price after September 12, 2024. |
| PC Game Pass | $9.99 | $11.99 | For new subscribers, the reported change began July 10, 2024. Existing recurring subscribers were to see the new price after September 12, 2024. |
These figures are the US prices reported for Microsoft’s 2024 announcement; they should not be treated as current rates or applied to other countries. VGC’s July 9, 2024 report and Thurrott’s July 10, 2024 coverage reported the change.
What was Game Pass Standard?
Standard was announced as a console subscription offering access to hundreds of console games, online console multiplayer, and selected deals. Its defining tradeoff against Ultimate was that it did not include day-one releases or cloud gaming.
#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.
| Feature in the 2024 announcement | Standard | Ultimate |
|---|---|---|
| Console game library | Hundreds of console games | Included Game Pass game access |
| Day-one releases | No | Some games were available on day one |
| Cloud gaming | No | Included |
| Online console multiplayer | Included | Included |
This comparison describes the announced 2024 feature set, not a confirmed current plan matrix. Microsoft’s support FAQ wording reproduced by VGC said: “Some games available with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate on day one will not be immediately available with Xbox Game Pass Standard and may be added to the library at a future date.” “May” is not a promise: the announcement did not set a fixed delay or guarantee that every such game would later join Standard.
What happened to Game Pass for Console subscribers?
Microsoft said it would stop accepting new subscribers to Game Pass for Console. People already subscribed could keep that plan while recurring billing remained active. If a subscription lapsed, the subscriber would need to choose another available plan rather than rejoin the legacy Console plan.
Rank #2
- 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.
Are those prices and features still current?
No: this announcement is a dated snapshot, not a reliable description of the lineup in October 2026. Microsoft subsequently changed and renamed plans. Its April 2026 Xbox Wire announcements for Brazil and France reported regional price reductions and changes to the timing of future Call of Duty releases. The French announcement said future titles would arrive around the following holiday season rather than at launch. Those country-specific updates do not establish a complete global 2026 plan comparison.
For a decision today, check the Xbox Game Pass page for your country. Compare the local price and billing period, whether day-one access applies, cloud gaming, console multiplayer, and PC access. Plan names and benefits can change, so do not infer a current entitlement from the 2024 Standard-versus-Ultimate distinction.
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Best Value
- 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.
Rank #4
- XBOX ELITE WIRELESS CONTROLLER SERIES 2: Play like a pro with adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grip, and shorter hair trigger locks..Audio : 3.5mm stereo headset jack. Also compatible with the Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter and all other Xbox controller accessories made by Microsoft.
- CORE ESSENTIALS: Includes just the components you need to unleash your best game. Additional components sold separately for even more customization with the Complete Component Pack.
- LIMITLESS CUSTOMIZATION: Exclusive button mapping options in the Xbox Accessories app—even pick which color the Xbox button lights up with.*
- CUSTOM PROFILES: Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly.*
- EXTENDED GAMEPLAY: Stay in the game with up to 40 hours of battery life and refined components that are built to last.*
Rank #3
- PLAY LIKE A PRO — The XBOX Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 features over 30 ways to play like a pro. Designed in collaboration with pro-level players, it puts exceptional performance, customization, and durability where it matters most.
- ADJUSTABLE-TENSION THUMBSTICKS — Fine-tune your aim with thumbsticks that let you adjust resistance for improved accuracy, consistency, and control in every match.
- SHORTER HAIR TRIGGER LOCKS — Fire faster and react quicker with three-step hair trigger locks that reduce pull distance for rapid input in competitive gameplay.
- INTERCHANGEABLE COMPONENTS — Swap thumbstick toppers, D-pads, and paddles to tailor your controller to your preferred gaming style. Includes 6 thumbsticks, 4 paddles, 2 D-pads, carrying case, and charging dock.
- SAVE AND SWITCH PROFILES — Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly with the dedicated Profile button. Even pick which color the XBOX button lights up as.
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.
