You can change your Xbox gamertag through the Xbox app, your console, or the Xbox website

Your Xbox gamertag is the name other players see when you're online. Microsoft lets you change it once for free, then charges a small fee for each change after that. The process takes a few minutes and works the same way whether you use a console, the Xbox app on PC, or a web browser.

You'll need to be signed into your Microsoft account and have access to the email address linked to it. If you've already used your one free change, you'll be charged at checkout before the new name goes live.

Key Takeaways

  • Your first gamertag change is free; any change after that costs money, which varies by region.
  • You can change your gamertag on any Xbox console, through the Xbox app on Windows, or at xbox.com.
  • The new name takes effect immediately after you confirm the purchase, and you cannot undo the change.
  • If your desired gamertag is already taken, you'll see that during the selection process and can try another name.
  • You must be signed into your Microsoft account and have access to the associated email address to complete the change.

Changing your gamertag on an Xbox console

Start by pressing the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide menu. Select your profile icon in the top left corner, then choose Customize profile. From there, select Gamertag and you'll see a list of available names the system suggests, or you can type in a custom name you want to try.

Once you've entered a name you like, the system will tell you whether it's available. If it is, you'll proceed to a confirmation screen that shows whether this is your free change or if you'll be charged. Review the details, then select Confirm to complete the change. Your new gamertag appears immediately across all your Xbox services.

Changing your gamertag through the Xbox app on Windows

Open the Xbox app and select your profile picture in the top left corner. Choose View profile, then select Customize profile. Click on your current gamertag to open the change screen.

Type in the new name you want or browse the suggestions the app provides. The system checks availability in real time, so you'll know right away if your choice is taken. Once you've found an available name, review the cost (if any) and select Change gamertag to finish. The change takes effect immediately.

Changing your gamertag at xbox.com

Go to xbox.com and sign in with your Microsoft account. Select your profile icon in the top right corner and choose Customize profile. Click on your gamertag to open the editing screen.

Enter your desired new name or select from the suggestions shown. The website will display availability instantly. Once you've chosen an available name, review any associated cost and select Change gamertag. Your new name becomes active right away across all Xbox services and devices where you're signed in.

What happens if your chosen name is already taken

If the gamertag you want is already in use, the system will tell you immediately on whichever platform you're using. You'll see a message saying the name isn't available, and you can try a different one. Microsoft provides suggestions based on your preferred name, often by adding numbers or slight variations.

You can keep trying different names until you find one that's available. There's no limit to how many names you can check before making your change, so take your time finding something you like.

Understanding the cost of changing your gamertag

Your first gamertag change is free. Every change after that costs money, and the exact amount varies depending on your region and current Xbox pricing. The system will show you the cost before you confirm the change, so you'll know the exact amount you'll be charged.

The charge appears on your Microsoft account payment method. If you don't have a payment method on file, you'll need to add one before you can complete a paid gamertag change. You can view your account payment methods at account.microsoft.com.

Why you might want to change your gamertag

Players change their gamertags for many reasons: a name no longer feels right, you want something more professional for streaming, or you're trying to distance yourself from an old online identity. Whatever your reason, the process is straightforward and the change is permanent once confirmed.

Keep in mind that changing your gamertag doesn't affect your game progress, achievements, or friends list. Everyone you play with will see your new name going forward, but your account history and all your games stay the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my gamertag back to my old one?

Yes, but it counts as a paid change if you've already used your free one. You'll be charged the same fee as any other gamertag change. The system doesn't treat reverting to an old name any differently than choosing a completely new one.

How long does it take for my new gamertag to show up everywhere?

Your new gamertag appears immediately on your console and in the Xbox app. It may take a few minutes to update across all Xbox services and in games, but this usually happens within seconds. If you don't see it right away in a game, try signing out and back in.

What if I change my mind right after changing my gamertag?

Gamertag changes cannot be undone. Once you confirm the change, it's permanent. If you want to go back to your old name, you'll need to pay for another change. Make sure you're happy with your new name before you confirm.

Do I need Xbox Game Pass to change my gamertag?

No. You only need a Microsoft account and access to the email linked to it. Game Pass membership is not required. Anyone with an active Xbox account can change their gamertag.

Will my friends still be able to find me after I change my gamertag?

Yes. Your friends list doesn't change, and they'll see your new gamertag the next time they sign in. You'll still appear in their friends list under your new name, and they can still message and play with you normally.