Microsoft opened its Cloud Playtime preview to eligible Xbox Insiders without an active Game Pass subscription on October 21, 2026. Microsoft lists introductory prices in U.S. dollars of $3.99 for 10 hours, $7.99 for 25 hours, and $11.99 for 50 hours.
Microsoft’s introductory Cloud Playtime prices
| Pack | Playtime | Introductory price (USD) | Calculated price per hour (USD) |
| 10-hour pack | 10 hours | $3.99 | $0.40 |
| 25-hour pack | 25 hours | $7.99 | $0.32 |
| 50-hour pack | 50 hours | $11.99 | $0.24 |
The 10-hour pack has the lowest upfront cost; the 50-hour pack works out to the lowest cost per hour. Purchased hours remain available until used.
Who can use the preview, and what does a pack unlock?
Cloud Playtime is for eligible Xbox Insiders who do not have an active Game Pass subscription. A supported device is required, and Microsoft says availability, purchasing options, eligible games, and features may vary by market, device, account eligibility, and preview ring.
A pack buys streaming time, not a Game Pass game library. Microsoft generally requires a purchased game that can be played in the cloud, with select free-to-play games as an exception.
What the paid hours include
Microsoft says paid packs provide ad-free streaming, shorter wait times, and high-quality streaming. Microsoft is also testing a separate free, ad-supported cloud-gaming option with Xbox Insiders.
How the preview differs from Game Pass cloud hours
Microsoft announced that monthly cloud allowances for Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and Essential were planned to begin in November 2026, at 15, 10, and 5 hours, respectively. Microsoft also said subscribers would be able to buy additional playtime through the Xbox Store after using their allowance. These monthly subscription hours are separate from the prepaid Cloud Playtime preview packs.
Microsoft said broader availability for Cloud Playtime was planned for November 2026.
