You can play Xbox games on a PC, phone, or TV in three ways: stream supported games with Xbox Cloud Gaming, stream games from your own console with Xbox Remote Play, or install a PC version locally on a Windows computer. Cloud Gaming can work without a console; Remote Play requires access to an Xbox console; local PC play requires a compatible PC version of the game.
Choose the right way to play
| Route | Where the game runs | Console required? | What you need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox Cloud Gaming | On Xbox servers; streamed to your device | No | Supported device and region, Microsoft account, eligible game and plan where required, and a compatible controller for controller-based games |
| Xbox Remote Play | On your Xbox console; streamed to your device | Yes; you need access to a configured console and a game available on it | Compatible client device, Microsoft account with an Xbox profile, supported Bluetooth controller, and a network connection |
| Local PC play | Installed and run on a Windows PC | No | A PC that meets the game’s requirements, a PC version of the game, and the relevant game entitlement |
Game, plan, device, and regional availability differ. Check the Xbox Cloud Gaming catalog and the relevant device compatibility information before choosing a route.
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Play Xbox games on a PC
Stream with Xbox Cloud Gaming
- Open xbox.com/play in a supported browser and sign in with your Microsoft account.
- Choose a game marked for cloud play. Confirm that the game and your plan are eligible in your region.
- Connect a compatible controller for games that require one. Controller support varies by device and game.
This route streams gameplay; it does not install the game on your PC. Xbox’s cloud gaming page provides the current catalog and entry point for streaming supported games.
Install and play a PC version
- Open the Xbox PC app on a Windows PC and find the game.
- Check that the listing offers a PC version and that your PC meets its requirements.
- Install and launch the PC version. You need the entitlement for that version; owning an Xbox console copy does not automatically provide a PC version.
Local PC play runs on your computer rather than streaming from Xbox servers or a home console. See Xbox on PC for the app and available PC play options.
#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.
Use Remote Play from a PC
If you own or can access an Xbox console, Remote Play streams what that console is running. The console and the game must be available to you. Start from Xbox’s Remote Play page and follow its current connection instructions.
Play Xbox games on a phone or tablet
Cloud Gaming in a mobile browser
On supported Android, iOS, and iPadOS devices, Xbox Cloud Gaming is accessed through a browser rather than a dedicated Cloud Gaming app. Visit xbox.com/play, sign in, and select an eligible game. Device, game, plan, and regional eligibility apply.
Rank #2
- Versatile compatibility: supports Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X/S consoles and PC Win10 and above (including the game platform Steam).
- Precise control: features Hall joysticks and Hall triggers for a comfortable feeling, long service life and improved game accuracy.
- Plug and Play Convenience: Wired USB connection (removable) for easy setup and instant play without the need for additional drivers.
- Customizable experience: Includes 2 custom backbuttons that allow users to eliminate false triggers and improve their gaming experience.
- Impressive gameplay: Provides a pulsating vibration trigger and an asymmetric vibration grip motor for intense tactile feedback.
Remote Play from your own console
Remote Play is the option for streaming games available on a console you own or can access. Configure the console and connect through Xbox’s Remote Play experience. Xbox lists Android 6.0 or later and iOS 15.1 or later on its Remote Play requirements page; check that page for current requirements.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsConnect a controller when needed
Pair a supported Bluetooth controller with the phone or tablet for games that need one. Xbox describes support for many current controllers, but pairing and compatibility depend on the particular controller and device. Some games provide touch controls; not all do.
Rank #3
- 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.
Play Xbox games on a TV
Xbox’s TV app is available on selected LG and Samsung smart TVs and select Amazon Fire TV devices. On a compatible device, open the Xbox app, sign in, connect a compatible controller, and choose an eligible game. Most available cloud games on TV require an active Game Pass subscription, and plan eligibility and regional availability can vary.
Support is limited to particular models and can change. Check Xbox’s TV compatibility information for the exact TV or Fire TV model and year before buying or setting up hardware. A Fire TV streaming device is an option only if that specific model is supported and your TV does not have a compatible built-in Xbox app.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- XBOX WIRELESS CONTROLLER + USB-C CABLE — Includes the XBOX Wireless Controller in Carbon Black and a 9' USB-C cable. Play wirelessly or plug in for a wired gaming experience, right out of the box.*
- WIRED OR WIRELESS, YOUR CALL — Connect the included 9' USB-C cable for zero-setup wired play on console and PC. Go wireless when you want the freedom to play from the couch, the desk, or anywhere in between.
- PC READY. NO EXTRAS NEEDED — Plug the USB-C cable into your Windows PC and you're playing instantly. No adapters, no Bluetooth pairing, no additional purchases required. Works across the XBOX app, Steam, and more.*
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience sculpted surfaces and refined geometry designed around how you actually hold a controller. Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grip on the triggers, bumpers, and back case.
- UP TO 40 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 40 hours of wireless battery life on standard AA batteries. When the batteries run low, plug in the included cable and keep playing without missing a beat.*
Rank #4
- Wide Compatibility: VOYEE wired 360 controller compatible with Microsoft Xbox 360 & Slim/ PC (Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7). Just plug and play, not for FPS games
- Enhanced Game Controller: Upgraded PC 360 controller with new left and right trigger buttons and more sensitive joysticks and buttons - Respond quickly to player commands without delay
- Astonishing Gaming Experience: VOYEE wired pc controller provides rumble control and according to the game automatic vibration feedback to enhanced game experience and match your personal preference
- Ergonomic Design: Grips's contours have been designed to fit your hands more comfortably to hold for a long time and 7.2ft cord allows greater
- What You Get: VOYEE wired 360/PC Controller, 45 Days Money Back, 365 Days Guarantee Against quality defect and 24 Hours Friendly Customer Support
What you need to check before starting
- Game access: Confirm the game is available for your chosen route. A cloud listing, a console install, and a PC version are not interchangeable entitlements.
- Device compatibility: Check browser or operating-system support for Cloud Gaming and Remote Play, and exact model support for TV apps.
- Controller: Have a supported Bluetooth controller for Remote Play and for most controller-based cloud games. Verify compatibility with your specific device; touch controls exist only in some games.
- Internet: Cloud Gaming and Remote Play stream video and gameplay, so they require an internet-connected device and a usable network connection. Local PC play does not stream gameplay from a console or Xbox servers.
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