
Xbox Series X Release Date – Original Launch & 2024 Models Explained
The Xbox Series X arrived as Microsoft’s flagship console for the ninth generation of gaming, and its release date marked a pivotal moment in the industry. Knowing exactly when the console launched, how pricing compared to rivals, and what new models have been introduced since is essential for anyone considering a purchase. This guide covers the original November 2020 debut, the all‑digital white model arriving in 2024, and everything in between.
When Was the Xbox Series X Originally Released?
Microsoft officially launched the Xbox Series X on November 10, 2020. The announcement came from the Xbox News Wire on September 9, 2020, confirming that both the Series X and the lower‑cost Xbox Series S would be available globally on that date. Pre‑orders began on September 22, 2020 at a retail price of $499 USD for the Series X.
November 10, 2020 | $499 | Global
Same date as Series X | $299 | Global
October 15, 2024 | $449 / £430 | Select countries
October 15, 2024 | $599 | Select countries
- The original Xbox Series X launched on November 10, 2020, globally at $499.
- Microsoft introduced new color and storage variants in October 2024, including a white 1TB all-digital model.
- The Series S launched same day as Series X (Nov 10, 2020) at a lower price.
- Xbox Series X release date often compared to PS5, which launched two days later on November 12, 2020 in select regions.
- There is no confirmed Xbox Series X release date for 2022 or 2025; 2022 queries likely refer to stock availability, not new hardware.
- Retailers like Argos list specific release dates for new models (e.g., October 15, 2024).
| Model | Release Date | Price (USD) | Region | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox Series X (original) | November 10, 2020 | $499 | Global | Optical disc drive included |
| Xbox Series S | November 10, 2020 | $299 | Global | All-digital, lower performance |
| Xbox Series X 1TB Digital (Robot White) | October 15, 2024 | $449 (US) / £430 (UK) | Select countries | No disc drive |
| Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black (Special Edition) | October 15, 2024 | $599 | Select countries | Includes disc drive |
What New Xbox Series X Models Are Releasing in 2024?
Microsoft announced three new Xbox Series X|S console options on August 21, 2024, all set to release on October 15, 2024. Among them are the white 1TB all-digital Xbox Series X and the 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition, which retains a disc drive. These models cater to a growing demand for digital‑only gaming and higher storage capacities.
When does the white Xbox Series X 1TB all-digital console release?
The Robot White variant of the Xbox Series X (1TB, all-digital) arrives on October 15, 2024, priced at $449 in the US and £430 in the UK. It is available for pre‑order from major retailers including the Microsoft Store and Argos.
What are the three new Xbox Series X|S console options?
The three new options are: the white 1TB digital Series X, the 2TB Galaxy Black Series X with disc drive, and a refreshed 1TB Series S in carbon black. All launch the same day.
The Argos product page for the white 1TB digital Series X lists the release date as 15 October 2024. Pre‑orders began in late August 2024.
How Much Does the Xbox Series X Cost?
The original Xbox Series X launched at $499 USD / £449 GBP in 2020, and that price has remained consistent for the disc‑equipped model up to the present day. The new all‑digital white variant is priced lower at $449, while the 2TB Galaxy Black edition costs $599.
Has the Xbox Series X price changed over time?
No permanent price reduction has been announced for the original Series X. The introduction of the cheaper digital model in 2024 provides a more affordable entry point without lowering the price of the disc‑based console.
Original Series X: $499. White digital Series X: $449. 2TB Galaxy Black: $599. All prices are MSRP; retailer offers may vary.
How Does the Xbox Series X Release Date Compare to PS5?
The Xbox Series X launched globally on November 10, 2020, two days before the PlayStation 5, which arrived on November 12, 2020 in most regions. Both consoles were priced identically at $499 for their disc versions, making the competition direct from day one.
Which console launched first?
Microsoft’s console hit shelves first, though the difference was only a couple of days. Sony staggered its launch: November 12 in the US, Japan, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea, with a worldwide rollout on November 19.
Why did Microsoft launch Xbox Series X before Sony’s PS5?
Microsoft had committed to a “Holiday 2020” window since early in the year. The company confirmed the November 10 date in September 2020, giving it a slight head start in the crucial holiday shopping season.
When Is the Xbox Series X Release Date in the UK and Where Can I Buy It?
UK release dates mirror the global schedule: the original Xbox Series X launched on November 10, 2020, and the new 2024 models arrive on October 15, 2024. Major UK retailers including Argos, Game, Smyths, and Amazon UK stocked pre‑orders from September 22, 2020.
When will Argos sell the Xbox Series X?
Argos listed the original Series X at £449 during the 2020 launch and currently offers the white digital model with a release date of 15 October 2024. Stock was limited at launch due to high demand, and the same pattern is expected for the 2024 variants.
During the 2020 launch, pre‑orders sold out within hours at many UK retailers. For the 2024 models, pre‑orders are open but supplies may be limited.
Complete Xbox Series X Release Timeline
- September 9, 2020 – Microsoft announces November 10 launch date for Series X and Series S.
- September 22, 2020 – Pre‑orders begin for Xbox Series X and S.
- November 10, 2020 – Xbox Series X and S launch globally.
- August 21, 2024 – Microsoft announces three new Series X|S console options launching October 15, 2024.
- October 15, 2024 – New white 1TB digital Series X and 2TB Galaxy Black Series X release.
- 2025 (unconfirmed) – Rumors of mid-generation refresh or further models; no official date.
What Is Known and What Remains Uncertain About Future Models?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Original Xbox Series X released November 10, 2020. | No confirmed Xbox Series X release date beyond 2024 models. |
| New all-digital white model releases October 15, 2024. | Rumors of ‘Xbox Series X Pro’ or ‘Xbox Series X 2025’ are speculative. |
| Xbox Series X launch price was $499 / £449 / €499. | Availability and exact retail dates may vary by country and retailer. |
Background: The Ninth Generation and the 2024 Refresh
The Xbox Series X and the Series S launched together as part of the ninth generation of video game consoles, succeeding the Xbox One family. Microsoft emphasized backward compatibility with Xbox One and select older titles, along with deep integration of Xbox Game Pass.
The 2024 refresh introduces all‑digital options and storage upgrades, responding to a market that increasingly prefers downloading games over physical discs. The white digital model removes the disc drive to lower the price, while the Galaxy Black edition doubles the internal SSD capacity to 2TB.
Search queries such as “Xbox Series X release date 2022” likely stem from continued stock shortages during the COVID‑19 pandemic rather than a new console launch. No new hardware was released in 2022.
Official Sources and Quotes on the Xbox Series X Launch
“On November 10, a new generation of console gaming begins.”
— Xbox News Wire (2020)
“Three new Xbox Series X|S console options … will release on October 15.”
— Xbox News Wire (2024)
“Released on November 10, 2020, the higher-end Series X and lower-end Series S are part of the ninth generation of video game consoles.”
— Wikipedia
Summary: What to Take Away About Xbox Series X Release Dates
The original Xbox Series X launched on November 10, 2020, at $499. A new white all‑digital variant arrives on October 15, 2024, alongside a 2TB Galaxy Black edition. No further models have been officially confirmed beyond 2024. For those looking to save on gaming hardware, check out Black Friday Deals 2025: Best Ireland Offers & Key Dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Xbox Series S release date?
The Xbox Series S launched on the same day as the Series X: November 10, 2020.
Did the Xbox Series X release in 2022?
No. The original console launched in 2020, and the next new model released in 2024. 2022 saw no new Xbox Series X hardware release.
Is there an Xbox Series X release date in 2025?
As of now, Microsoft has not announced any Xbox Series X model for 2025. Any speculation is unconfirmed.
Where can I pre-order the Xbox Series X?
You can pre-order from the official Microsoft Store, Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, Argos (UK), and other major retailers. Pre-orders for 2024 models began in late August 2024.
What is the difference between Xbox Series X and Series S release dates?
Both were released on the same day – November 10, 2020. The Series S is a lower-cost digital-only variant.
Why do some queries mention ‘Xbox Series X release date Argos’?
Argos is a major UK retailer that lists specific release dates for new models, such as October 15, 2024 for the white all-digital console.
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