Struggling to figure out what to buy for your Xbox online? You’re in the right place! Think of me as your personal gaming concierge, ready to break down all the best digital goodies and essential accessories you can snag for your Xbox Series X, Series S, or even your trusty Xbox One. We’re talking everything from game-changing subscriptions to must-have gear and those hidden gem games that won’t break the bank. Buying online can feel a bit overwhelming with so many choices, but by the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly where to put your money to get the most out of your gaming. We’ll cover subscriptions like Xbox Game Pass Ultimate that give you access to hundreds of games, essential accessories like a new Xbox Wireless Controller or a speedy Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S, and even smart ways to find games for under $5. Let’s get your Xbox setup perfect!

Table of Contents

Essential Xbox Subscriptions: Your Gateway to Gaming Worlds

let’s kick things off with subscriptions, because honestly, these are where you’ll find some of the best value for your Xbox online experience. Microsoft has really put together some compelling options, often feeling like the “Netflix for video games”.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: The Whole Package

If you’re serious about gaming and want to get the absolute most out of your Xbox, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the top-tier choice. For about $19.99 a month, you get everything. And I mean everything. This includes access to a massive library of over 500 games that you can download and play on your console, PC, and even stream via Xbox Cloud Gaming on your phone or tablet. Plus, you get all the benefits of Xbox Game Pass Core which used to be Xbox Live Gold, more on that in a sec, meaning online multiplayer and a smaller library of games. You also get EA Play, which adds a bunch of Electronic Arts titles, and Day 1 access to new Xbox first-party games. It’s a fantastic deal if you play a lot of different games and on multiple devices. Some folks, myself included, call it the “best content deal in gaming”. You can sometimes find deals on multi-month subscriptions to save a bit too.

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Xbox Game Pass Console/PC: Focused Libraries

If Ultimate feels like overkill or you mostly play on just one platform, there are more focused Game Pass options:

Xbox Game Pass Standard Console: This one’s for console gamers who want a huge library of games over 300 titles but aren’t too bothered about Day 1 releases for new major titles. It costs about $14.99 a month and still includes online multiplayer.
PC Game Pass: For those who primarily game on PC, this plan gives you a massive library of over 400 PC games, Day 1 releases, and EA Play, all for around $11.99 a month.

Xbox Game Pass Core formerly Xbox Live Gold: For Online Play and a Taste of Game Pass

Xbox Live Gold has evolved into Xbox Game Pass Core. This is your budget-friendly entry point, costing about $9.99 a month or $74.99 a year. Its main job is to give you access to online multiplayer on consoles, so you can squad up with friends in games like Fortnite or Call of Duty. You also get access to a curated library of over 25 games, including some big names like Doom Eternal and Halo 5, which is a nice bonus compared to the old Gold subscription. Just remember, it doesn’t offer Day 1 releases or EA Play, so if you’re waiting for new blockbusters, you might want to consider a higher tier. Getting Henry Ready: Your Wedding Crashers Outfit Checklist

Must-Have Xbox Accessories: Level Up Your Setup

Getting your Xbox console is just the first step. To really enhance your gaming experience, you’ll want to look into some essential accessories. Good news: many Xbox One accessories are compatible with the Series X and S, so you might already own some useful gear.

Controllers: Precision and Personalization

The standard Xbox Wireless Controller that comes with your console is great, but there are upgrades and alternatives that can really make a difference.

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2: If you’re looking for a premium feel and advanced customization, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is often considered one of the best controllers out there. It offers swappable thumbsticks, remappable paddles, and a more robust build. It’s an investment, but many competitive gamers swear by it.
Third-Party Wired Controllers: For a more budget-friendly option, especially if you need an extra controller for guests, wired controllers like the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller are a solid choice. They’re usually more affordable and still offer good performance, sometimes with extra remappable buttons.
Thumb Grips: A small but mighty upgrade! You can find affordable thumb grips on Amazon that improve grip and can even add height to your joysticks, which can be really helpful for FPS or racing games.

Headsets: Immerse Yourself in Sound

Good audio can completely transform your gaming. Whether you’re tracking enemy footsteps or getting lost in an epic game soundtrack, a quality headset is key.

Xbox Wireless Headset: Microsoft’s own Xbox Wireless Headset is a popular choice for its seamless integration and balanced sound.
Premium Wireless Headsets: Brands like SteelSeries and Razer offer excellent wireless options. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Xbox Multi-System Gaming Headset or Razer BlackShark V2 are often highlighted for their superior sound quality and comfort. Remember, not all general Bluetooth headsets work with Xbox, so look for ones specifically designed for it or that connect via a 3.5mm jack to your controller.

Storage Expansion: Never Delete a Game Again Almost!

Xbox Series X|S games can be massive, with some AAA titles exceeding 150GB. You’ll quickly run out of space, especially with an Xbox Series S that has less internal storage. What to Buy for Umembeso: A Complete Guide to Traditional and Modern Gifts

Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S: This is the official and most seamless solution for expanding storage for Series X|S optimized games. These cards available in 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB plug directly into a dedicated slot on the back of your console and offer performance identical to the internal SSD. The Seagate 1TB Game Drive or the WD_Black C50 Expansion Card for Xbox are your go-to options here.
External HDDs/SSDs: For storing older Xbox One, Xbox 360, or original Xbox games, or just to archive your Series X|S titles to avoid re-downloading, a standard external HDD or SSD works great. You can play backward compatible games directly from these drives. Just remember, you can’t play Series X|S optimized games directly from an external USB drive. you’ll need to transfer them to the internal SSD or an expansion card first. Any drive you choose needs to be USB 3.0 or better and at least 128GB to be compatible.

Charging Solutions: Keep the Power On

Nothing’s worse than your controller dying mid-game. Ditch the endless supply of AA batteries with a reliable charging solution.

Xbox Rechargeable Battery + USB-C Cable: Microsoft’s official Play & Charge Kit is a convenient option. You can charge it while playing or when the console is in standby.
Charging Docks: A dual charging station from brands like PowerA keeps your controllers neatly stored and always ready to go.

Media Remotes and Other Fun Gear

PDP Universal Gaming Media Remote Control: If you use your Xbox for streaming movies and TV shows, a dedicated media remote can be much more convenient than a controller.
Racing Wheels: For racing enthusiasts, a good racing wheel and pedals like the Logitech G923 can drastically improve immersion in games like Forza Horizon.

Top Games to Buy on Xbox: Dive Into New Adventures

Of course, the main reason we have an Xbox is for the games! The digital storefront is packed, so knowing what to look for can save you time and money.

New Releases and Evergreen Titles

The Xbox ecosystem is always getting new games. Keep an eye on the Xbox Store’s “New Releases” section. If you have Game Pass Ultimate, you’ll often get Day 1 access to major first-party titles and some exciting indie games, saving you from buying them outright.

For evergreen titles that every Xbox owner should consider, you can’t go wrong with classics and popular franchises. Games like Minecraft are constantly supported with new content and are a staple of the Xbox experience. Big exclusives like Halo, Forza, and Gears of War are always solid choices. Other top-paid games often include titles like HELLDIVERS™ 2, NBA 2K26, and Black Myth: Wukong.

Indie Gems: Affordable Fun

Don’t overlook the indie scene! The Xbox Store is full of incredible, often more affordable, independent games that offer unique experiences. Many of these titles eventually make their way to Game Pass, but if you see one you really want to own, they’re usually reasonably priced. Keep an eye on the “Deals” section for these. What to Buy for the Man Who Has Everything

Games for Under $5: Budget-Friendly Buys

Looking to snag some games without spending a lot? The Xbox Store regularly has sales, and you can often find fantastic titles for under $5. This is where your Xbox Gift Card can really come in handy, letting you pick up some affordable gems. Some past examples of great games that have been available for around $5 include Far Cry Classic, Skate 3, Fallout New Vegas, PUBG, and even the standalone online version of Red Dead Redemption 2. To find these deals, simply head to the Xbox Store on your console, go to the “Deals” section, and often you can filter by price. It’s a great way to expand your library on a budget!

What to Buy with an Xbox Gift Card

An Xbox Gift Card is like digital cash for your Microsoft account, and it’s super versatile. You can use it for almost anything on the Microsoft Store, which means games, apps, movies, TV shows, and even subscriptions like Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. It’s also great for buying game add-ons, in-game content, and sometimes even physical accessories if you’re shopping directly from the Microsoft Store. They don’t expire, so you can save them for a big sale or that game you’ve been eyeing.

Getting the Most Out of Your Xbox Experience

Beyond what you buy, knowing how to buy smart can make a big difference.

Digital vs. Physical Games: The Great Debate

When it comes to games, you’ve got a choice: digital downloads or physical discs. Both have their pros and cons. What to Buy for S’mores: Your Ultimate Guide to Sweet Success

Digital Games: The convenience is huge. Your entire library is accessible from your console, no disc-swapping required, and you can pre-load games to play them right at launch. Plus, digital games often go on sale, sometimes for significantly less than physical copies. However, some folks feel a lack of “ownership” without a physical item, and you can’t typically sell or loan digital games. If your account gets compromised, that could also be an issue, though two-factor authentication helps a lot.
Physical Games: Many gamers love having a collection on their shelf, and you can often lend games to friends or resell them once you’re done. For older titles, the disc might contain the full game without needing massive downloads, but modern games almost always require large day-one patches anyway, and sometimes not even the full game is on the disc. With disc-less consoles like the Xbox Series S, physical games aren’t even an option.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to your preference for convenience versus physical ownership and resale potential.

Sales and Deals: Timing is Everything

Xbox is known for its frequent sales, so keeping an eye out can save you a ton of money.

Microsoft Store “Deals” Section: This is your first stop. On your Xbox console, navigate to the Store, and you’ll find a dedicated “Deals” section where current discounts are highlighted.
Major Sales Events: Keep an eye out for big seasonal sales like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, the Ultimate Game Sale, and holiday promotions. These often feature significant discounts on games, bundles, and even accessories.
Third-Party Retailers: Don’t forget to check major online retailers like Amazon and Best Buy. They frequently match or even beat Xbox Store prices, especially during big sales. You might find bundle deals or discounts on games that aren’t on sale directly on the Xbox Store.
Game Pass Discounts: If you’re a Game Pass subscriber especially Ultimate, you often get additional discounts on games in the library if you decide you want to buy them permanently, plus other exclusive perks.

By being strategic and checking these different avenues, you can build an impressive Xbox library without constantly paying full price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to buy for Xbox Live?

You don’t need to buy “Xbox Live” as a separate entity anymore. The online multiplayer service is now included with Xbox Game Pass Core which replaced Xbox Live Gold or any higher tier of Game Pass, like Game Pass Ultimate. So, if you want to play online with friends, you’ll need one of these subscriptions. However, if you’re only playing free-to-play games like Fortnite or Call of Duty: Warzone, you generally don’t need a subscription for online multiplayer anymore.

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What should I buy for my new Xbox Series X/S?

For a new Xbox Series X or Series S, I’d highly recommend starting with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate if your budget allows. It gives you immediate access to a massive library of games, including new releases, and all the online multiplayer benefits. Beyond that, consider a Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S especially for the Series S if you plan on downloading a lot of Series X|S optimized games, as their file sizes are quite large. A good Xbox Wireless Headset and a Play & Charge Kit for your controller are also excellent early purchases.

Can I buy games for under $5 on Xbox online?

Absolutely! The Xbox Store frequently has sales where many games drop below the $5 mark. To find them, go to the Store on your Xbox console, navigate to the “Deals” section, and you can usually filter by price. Keep an eye out during major sales events, as this is when the best budget-friendly titles often appear.

What are the best Xbox accessories to get?

After your console, the most impactful accessories are usually a high-quality gaming headset for immersive audio and communication, and a storage expansion card like the Seagate or WD_Black options for your Series X|S. A Play & Charge Kit or a charging dock is also a must for controller power. If you have extra budget, an Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is a fantastic upgrade for competitive play.

Is Xbox Game Pass Ultimate worth it?

Many gamers, myself included, think Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is absolutely worth it, especially if you play a variety of games across different platforms console, PC, cloud. It bundles Xbox Game Pass with Day 1 releases and hundreds of games, Xbox Game Pass Core online multiplayer, and EA Play into one subscription. While it’s priced higher than individual tiers, the sheer volume of content and features it provides offers incredible value for active gamers. What Stocks to Buy for Quantum Computing: Your Investor’s Guide

What’s the difference between Xbox Series X and S in terms of what I can buy?

The core difference between the Xbox Series X and Series S in terms of what you can buy online is quite minimal for digital content. Both consoles access the same digital Xbox Store for games and accessories. The main considerations are:

Storage: The Series X comes with 1TB of storage, while the Series S usually has 512GB though a 1TB version exists. This means a storage expansion card is almost essential earlier for Series S owners.
Physical Media: The Series X has a disc drive, so you can buy physical games. The Series S is a digital-only console, meaning you can only buy games online through the Xbox Store.
Performance: The Series X is more powerful, targeting native 4K gaming, while the Series S targets 1440p and upscales to 4K. This doesn’t change what games you can buy, but rather how they perform visually. Most accessories are compatible with both.

What to Buy for Xbox Online: Your Ultimate Guide to Digital Gaming Goodies