Many Xbox users wonder about the possibility of changing their Xbox gamertag, or “Xbox name.” Whether you want to refresh your identity, fix a typo, or create a more unique persona, changing your Xbox name is possible.
However, there are rules, costs, and limitations involved that every user should know before making a change.
What Is an Xbox Name or Gamertag?
Your Xbox name, commonly referred to as your gamertag, is your unique identifier on the Xbox network. It represents you in games, friends lists, leaderboards, and social features across Xbox consoles and the Xbox app.
This gamertag is visible to everyone you interact with online, so many users choose names that reflect their personality or gaming style. Originally, gamertags were complicated to change, but Microsoft has made the process easier and more flexible over time.
Can You Change Your Xbox Name?
Yes, you can change your Xbox gamertag. Microsoft allows users to change their Xbox name through the Xbox console, website, or mobile app.
The first change is usually free, but subsequent changes may require a fee.
Changing your Xbox name can help you update your online identity, but it is important to understand the rules and fees before proceeding.
“Your Xbox gamertag is your digital identity — make sure you choose one that you’re proud of. Changing it is easy, but be aware of the costs involved after your first change.”
How to Change Your Xbox Name
There are multiple ways to change your Xbox name. Below is a step-by-step guide for the most common methods.
Change Xbox Name on Xbox Console
- Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide.
- Go to Profile & system > My profile > Customize profile.
- Select your current gamertag, then choose Choose your new gamertag.
- Enter the desired new gamertag and check availability.
- Confirm the change and pay any applicable fees.
Change Xbox Name via Xbox Website
- Open a web browser and visit https://www.xbox.com.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account linked to your Xbox profile.
- Click on your profile picture in the top right corner and select Xbox profile.
- Click Customize > Change gamertag.
- Enter your new desired gamertag, check availability, and confirm your change.
Change Xbox Name on Xbox App
The Xbox app for Windows, iOS, and Android also allows gamertag changes.
- Open the Xbox app and sign in.
- Tap or click your profile icon.
- Choose Customize or Edit profile.
- Enter a new gamertag and verify availability.
- Pay any applicable fees and confirm your new name.
How Much Does It Cost to Change Your Xbox Name?
The cost of changing your Xbox gamertag depends on whether it is your first change or a subsequent one.
| Change Number | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Change | Free | Microsoft offers one free gamertag change per account. |
| Second Change and Beyond | $9.99 USD (or regional equivalent) | Charges apply for each subsequent gamertag change. |
The fee is paid via your Microsoft account payment method and is non-refundable. It’s important to pick your new gamertag carefully after the free change to avoid multiple fees.
Xbox Name Change Rules and Restrictions
When selecting a new Xbox name, you must adhere to certain guidelines:
- Length: Gamertags must be between 1 and 15 characters.
- Allowed Characters: Letters, numbers, and certain special characters are allowed.
- Uniqueness: Your new gamertag must be unique and not already in use.
- Appropriateness: Offensive or inappropriate names are prohibited and may be rejected.
If the gamertag you want is already taken, Microsoft may append a number to your chosen name to make it unique. You can accept that or try a different name.
“Keep in mind that your Xbox name represents you in the Xbox community. Choose a name that follows the community standards and reflects your identity respectfully.”
What Happens When You Change Your Xbox Name?
Changing your Xbox name updates your identity across Xbox Live, Xbox consoles, and Xbox apps. Here are some important considerations:
- Your friends and other gamers will see your new gamertag immediately.
- Your achievements, game saves, and gamer score remain tied to your Microsoft account and do not reset.
- Some older games or apps may display your previous gamertag instead of the new one due to caching or technical limitations.
- Your previous gamertag becomes available for others to claim after a waiting period.
Common Questions About Changing Xbox Names
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I change my Xbox name multiple times? | Yes, but only the first change is free. Subsequent changes require a fee of $9.99 USD. |
| Will changing my Xbox name delete my games or achievements? | No. Your games, achievements, and progress stay linked to your Microsoft account. |
| Can I revert to my old Xbox name? | Only if the old gamertag is still available. Once released, it can be claimed by anyone. |
| Why is my desired gamertag unavailable? | It may already be taken or reserved. Try adding numbers or variations. |
| Are there any limits on how often I can change my gamertag? | Microsoft does not specify a strict limit, but each change after the first one costs money. |
Tips for Choosing a Great Xbox Name
Selecting the perfect Xbox name can be fun but also challenging. Here are some tips to help you pick a memorable and cool gamertag:
- Keep it simple and easy to remember. Avoid overly complicated spellings.
- Reflect your personality or gaming style. Use nicknames, hobbies, or favorite characters.
- Use numbers or symbols strategically. This can help if your preferred name is taken.
- Avoid offensive or controversial terms. This helps maintain a positive reputation.
- Check availability on other platforms. If you want a consistent brand across social media.
What If You Can’t Change Your Xbox Name?
Sometimes users experience issues when trying to change their Xbox name. Common problems include:
- Gamertag unavailable: The name you want is already taken or reserved.
- Technical glitches: Temporary errors with Xbox servers or Microsoft accounts.
- Payment issues: Problems processing fees for additional changes.
If you encounter issues, try the following:
- Wait a few hours and try again, as server issues are often temporary.
- Clear your Xbox cache or restart your console.
- Check your Microsoft account payment method for validity.
- Contact Xbox Support for assistance.
Summary of Xbox Name Change Process
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Access profile customization | On Xbox console, website, or app |
| 2 | Enter new gamertag | Check availability |
| 3 | Approve and confirm change | First change is free, others cost $9.99 |
| 4 | Gamertag updates across Xbox network | May take a short time to propagate |
Final Thoughts
Changing your Xbox name is a straightforward process that allows you to refresh your gaming identity. With one free change included, users can experiment with their gamertag before committing to a permanent choice.
Just remember to follow Microsoft’s guidelines to avoid issues and unexpected fees.
Your Xbox gamertag is more than just a name — it’s your brand in the vibrant Xbox community. Choose wisely, and enjoy gaming with your new identity!
