Michael JohnsonOn October 21, 2026, Xbox opened a test of cloud gaming time purchases without a Game Pass subscription to Xbox Insiders. Packages of 10, 25 and 50 hours cost $3.99, $7.99 and $11.99, respectively. Microsoft plans a wider rollout in November.
The Xbox announcement says purchased hours remain available until used. Packages provide ad-free streaming, shorter wait times and high-quality streaming. Insiders without an active Game Pass subscription can also try free, ad-supported cloud gaming.
How pay-by-the-hour works
Package prices work out to about $0.40 per hour when buying 10 hours, $0.32 for 25 and $0.24 for 50. These figures are the package prices divided by the number of hours; the practical cost depends on how much playtime the buyer uses.
- 10 hours — $3.99;
- 25 hours — $7.99;
- 50 hours — $11.99.
For occasional gaming sessions, it is useful to compare the cost of the required amount of time with a subscription and the free ad-supported option. Access to specific games and devices depends on the service terms.
The test is tied to Game Pass changes
In its September announcement about changes, Xbox said that starting in November, Game Pass will include a monthly cloud gaming limit: 15 hours for Ultimate, 10 for Premium and 5 for Essential. After using their included hours, subscribers will be able to buy additional time. The company also announced the option to purchase cloud gaming hours without a subscription.
Cloud Playtime packages are available in the test at introductory prices. Xbox cautions that purchase availability, eligible games and features may vary by market, device, account eligibility and preview ring. Most games require a purchase; some free-to-play games can be launched without one.
Xbox Insiders can check whether packages are available for their account and compare the cost with free ad-supported streaming or a subscription. The announced prices apply to the test; Microsoft plans broader availability in November.