Xbox series X stock news - live: EE and Argos restocks continue into 25 January

LIVE – Updated at 09:49

Update: The Xbox series X bundle is still available in some Argos stores and for EE customers. Read on for more details.

The Xbox series X launched more than a year ago, but production bottlenecks caused by an industry-wide shortage of microchips has left Microsoft’s next-generation console out of stock consistently since release.

At the tail end of 2021, UK retailers released thousands of stockpiled consoles to meet surging consumer demand, with Very, Smyths Toys, Game, Argos, Asda and Amazon all selling the Xbox series X in droves. Things have slowed down again in January, but look hard enough and you can still find a few spots where the Xbox regularly pops up in stock.

When it does appear, the Xbox series X sells out in minutes as customers snap up the available units as soon as they arrive. That’s why we launched our Xbox stock tracking liveblog, where we track every UK retailer at once to bring you live stock alerts as they happen.

We’ll also bring you tips and advice for beating the crowds to bag an Xbox series X, including which sites to pay attention to, where the Xbox might be restocked next, and how to register your interest for new consoles before they go on sale.

Read more:

Which UK retailers stock the Xbox series X?

Key Points

• Morning, Xbox series X stock trackers
• Xbox series X and series S differences
• Best TVs for gaming on Xbox series X
• Argos bundles still available in some stores

How to buy an Xbox series X online

09:49 , Jasper Pickering

It’s all quiet on the Xbox front this morning, so let’s go over some things you can do right now to be ready when the next restock happens.

• Register an account at each of the retailers that stock the Xbox series X. They’re listed in the main article above.
• Ensure your correct payment details are saved in your browser on desktop, or on Google Pay or Apple Pay on your phone.
• Are you a BT customer, or know somebody who is? Register your interest on the BT site to get exclusive access to BT’s next drop.
• Sign up for a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime, in case the retailer makes its next Xbox drop a Prime-exclusive.
• Download each retailer’s app (if they have one) and add the Xbox series X to your wish list or “save for later” list.
• When the console drops, use the link in your wish list to add the Xbox to your trolley or basket – this usually has a higher success rate than navigating through the website.
• Keep note of the prices of bundles to ensure you’re getting a good deal. Rounding up, the console itself is £450, controllers are £50, the official headset is £90, and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate costs £11 per month. Newly released game are £60, but retailers usually bundle older games with the console.
• The pay-as-you-go Xbox All Access programme is good value for money, so long as you don’t already have a Game Pass subscription.

Don’t buy a console on social media, these are always scams.

Best games available through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

09:25 , Jasper Pickering

Since its introduction in 2017, Microsoft has offered gamers great value with the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Much like a Netflix subscription, users can pay a monthly fee to access a library of over 100 titles for playing on Xbox consoles, PC and even via the cloud.

This is a great way to try plenty of excellent games that might otherwise have passed you by and it’s regularly updated on a monthly basis on a revolving door policy. When new games come in, old ones tend to go out.

Titles such as Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5 are currently available through the service with plenty of others that are worth your time.

If you want to find out our top 10 picks for best Xbox Game Pass Ultimate titles, then read our full round-up

Got an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate? These are the best games to try now

Will we see an Xbox restock at Currys?

09:01 , Jasper Pickering

Currys PC World is another retailer looking likely to restock the Xbox series X. Previous restocking patterns suggest that Currys is overdue to receive more stock – the retailer hasn’t seen an Xbox series X drop since Christmas Eve so it’s likely we will see one in the next few days.

When a drop happens, the main Currys site gets hammered with traffic, so we recommend using the app to complete your purchase.

You can play Xbox games on your laptop

08:47 , Jasper Pickering

You don’t actually need an Xbox series X to play Xbox series X games, just a fast enough internet connection and a compatible streaming device.

Xbox Cloud Gaming streams games from Microsoft’s servers to your console, laptop or phone, via your internet browser or the Xbox app. How does cloud gaming work? Well it’s basically like being on a Zoom call with a game that you’re controlling, meaning you can jump into new games at the push of a button rather than waiting around for an installation.

Cloud gaming requires a membership to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (£32.99, Argos.co.uk), which unlocks on-demand access to more than 100 games. Thankfully, decent laptops are much easier to find than the Xbox series X. If you’re thinking of upgrading, check out our list of the best laptops in 2021.

How to find an Xbox series X at an Argos near you

08:29 , Jasper Pickering

Buy now

Argos has restocked the Xbox series X for click and collect in local stores up and down the country. We’re seeing consoles at our nearest stores in Kingston upon Thames, so enter your postcode or a postcode near you to check the availability in nearby Argos branches.

The best way to buy an Xbox series X from Argos is through the app. Add the console to your wish list, which lets you slip the Xbox into your basket in advance for a speedy checkout.

Good morning, Xbox series X stock trackers

08:05 , Jasper Pickering

Good morning Xbox trackers! If you missed it yesterday, it looked like there was a substantial stock drop over at Argos, with some bundles available in select stores.

But it’s still early in the week and we’re expecting more drops from other major retailers before January is out. We’ll be keeping this liveblog updated with all the latest developments and other tips for when you eventually manage to get your hands on Microsoft’s latest console.

Xbox stock trackers, signing off

Monday 24 January 2022 17:00 , Steve Hogarty

That’s all from us! Thank you for reading the Xbox series X stock tracking liveblog.

We head into Monday evening with the Xbox still in stock at Argos, though at the time of writing you might need to head to Sheffield to grab one of the last remaining consoles – as if you’d ever need an excuse to visit Sheffield.

To be alerted next time more stock drops, join us again tomorrow morning when we’ll be resuming the search.

Bye bye!

There are the differences between the Xbox series X and series S

Monday 24 January 2022 16:28 , Steve Hogarty

There are two next-gen Xboxes, the less powerful Xbox series S and the top-of-the-range Xbox series X.

All Xbox games old and new will run on both consoles, though on the less powerful Xbox series S the overall graphics quality will be dialled down. The Xbox series S does not have a disc drive, has half the storage capacity and can only play downloaded games. The Xbox series S is much easier to find in stock than the series X. It’s also cheaper and costs just £249 (Amazon.co.uk).

Here are the details, if you’re into comparing teraflops.

Xbox series S specs:

• CPU: Custom Zen 2 8-core CPU
• GPU: 4 TFLOPS, 20 CUS
• Memory: 10GB GDDR6
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Resolution: 1440p at 60fps

Xbox series X specs:

• CPU: AMD 8-core Zen 2 @ 3.8 GHz
• GPU: 12TFLOPS, 52 CUs @ 1.825 GHz
• Memory: 16GB GDDR6
• Storage: 1TB custom WD SSD, optional 1T
• Resolution: 4K at 60fps

Read our review of the new Nintendo Switch OLED

Monday 24 January 2022 15:29 , Steve Hogarty

If handheld gaming is more your thing then check out our review of the new Nintendo Switch OLED. The console features an OLED display for the first time, which is larger than before and produces punchier colours and deeper blacks. There’s also a redesigned kickstand and double the internal storage of its predecessor.

Our reviewer said of the £309.99 console: “The larger display is fantastic and playing games in handheld mode is an absolute joy. The kickstand feels so solid and makes us never want to look at that little toggle on the back of the original Switch ever again…this is absolutely the best version of the console yet.”

Nintendo Switch OLED review: The best version of the console yet

The best TVs for gaming on Xbox series X

Monday 24 January 2022 14:28 , Steve Hogarty

With all this focus on where to buy an Xbox series X, let’s not overlook the thing you’re plugging it into. Is your TV ready for Microsoft’s next-generation console?

The Xbox series X can technically output at 8K resolution, though most games will only ever be running at a maximum of 4K. That’s the highest resolution most reasonably priced TVs can reach today.

If your TV only goes up to 1080p, games will still look great but you won’t be getting the most out of your new Xbox series X. To help you upgrade your set without breaking the bank, we’ve pulled together a list of the best 4K TVs for entertainment, movies and gaming.

9 best 4K TVs for needle-sharp viewing

The Xbox series X headsets to look out for

Monday 24 January 2022 13:29 , Steve Hogarty

The Xbox series X doesn’t come with its own headset, but it’s compatible with all existing headsets for the Xbox One. You’ll often see many retailers bundling third-party headsets with the console too. So which one is the best?

If you don’t need to chat to other players, the Xbox wireless controller (£54.99, Argos.co.uk) has a 3.5mm headphone jack, so you can plug in your regular headphones to have game audio play through them rather than your TV.

If you want to hurl compliments at your opponents during multiplayer games, Microsoft sells the wireless Xbox series X headset separately (£89.99, Argos.co.uk). Lots of third-party manufacturers make Xbox compatible headsets too. We’ve rounded up the best gaming headsets you can buy today.

Immerse yourself in play with one of the best gaming headsets

Sign up to the IndyBest newsletter

Monday 24 January 2022 12:28 , Steve Hogarty

Want even more shopping insights? Why not sign up to the free IndyBest newsletter, where you can access the best deals and round-ups of the week’s must-have products chosen by IndyBest experts.

Dropping into your inbox every Friday morning, the handy digest features items from our tried and tested reviews by pros in the field – helping you make the most informed choice with your hard-earned cash.

Get the IndyBest newsletter and access to all of The Independent’s other newsletters now. You won’t regret it.

IndyBest newsletter – Sign up for your essential weekly shopping guide

How to buy an Xbox series X online

Monday 24 January 2022 11:29 , Steve Hogarty

While we wait for more consoles to appear, let’s go over some of basic tips when it comes to securing an Xbox series X. Preparation is key to success, and there are a bunch of things you can do right now to ensure you’re ready when the next restock happens.

• Register an account and save your payment details at each of the retailers that stock the Xbox series X. They’re listed in the main article above
• Are you a BT customer, or know somebody who is? Register your interest on the BT site to get exclusive access to BT’s next drop
• Download each retailer’s app (if they have one) and add the Xbox series X to your wish list or “save for later” list
• When the console drops, use the link in your wish list to add the Xbox to your trolley – this usually has a higher success rate than navigating through the website
• Keep note of the prices of bundles to ensure you’re getting a good deal. Rounding up, the console itself is £450, controllers are £50, the official headset is £90, and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate costs £11 per month. Newly released game are £60, but retailers usually bundle older games with the console
• The pay-as-you-go Xbox All Access programme is good value for money, so long as you don’t already have a Game Pass subscription

Is the Xbox series X available at Amazon?

Monday 24 January 2022 10:59 , Steve Hogarty

The retailer last restocked the Xbox series X on 4 January, though supply was so limited the console was only on sale for around two minutes. Whereas Amazon restricts sales of Sony’s next-generation console to Prime customers, the Xbox gets no such protection. As such it’s exposed to automated bots and unscrupulous resellers and sells out in the blink of an eye.

Make sure you’re signed in to your Amazon account, and ensure your payment and delivery information is up to date. If you haven’t already, register for a 3-day trial of Amazon Prime in case the Xbox series X is exclusively available to members.

What are the chances of a Very restock today?

Monday 24 January 2022 10:12 , Steve Hogarty

Pretty low. But don’t feel dismayed: if the retailer sticks to its usual schedule, Very should restock the Xbox series X on 15 February.

It’s one of the few retailers it’s possible to predict, and it’s also the only retailer to restock the Xbox series X and the PlayStation 5 at the same time. Why does it put itself through this? We don’t know, but it’s helpful from a stock tracking perspective.

Very operates a waiting room system during stock drops. It can take hours to reach the front of the queue when demand is high, so when 15 February rolls around and we’re dodging Xboxes left, right and centre, we recommend you don’t refresh your browser window once you’re in the waiting room.

Microsoft loves a special edition controller

Monday 24 January 2022 09:49 , Steve Hogarty

Microsoft can’t get enough of designing limited edition Xbox controllers. It’s an obsession. We’re beginning to worry.

Halo Infinite (£46.99, Currys.co.uk) is the biggest Xbox series X game yet, so naturally it gets two whole limited edition controllers. There’s a standard, black Halo Infinite themed controller, which you can only get by purchasing the incredibly rare, Halo Infinite themed Xbox series X (£479.99, Microsoft.com).

But there’s also a new elite controller (pictured above) themed around Master Chief’s iconic green armour. The elite controller launched alongside Halo Infinite and can be found at Game when stock is available. It’s sold out right now.

Here are your basic Xbox series X controller options, setting aside the tidal wave of other limited edition pads sloshing around out there.

• Xbox wireless controller: £54.99, Argos.co.uk
• Xbox elite wireless controller series 2: £149.99, Currys.co.uk
• Xbox elite wireless controller series 2 – Halo Infinite limited edition: £179.99, Xbox.com

Currys could restock today

Monday 24 January 2022 09:30 , Steve Hogarty

Paying for extra controllers or handing over £28.99 per month for Xbox All Access isn’t for everyone. That’s why we’re always scoping out more typical Xbox series X deals too.

If you’re waiting to buy a standalone console for £449, keep one eye locked on Currys this morning.

By our professional estimates, the electronics retailer should restock the Xbox series X some time this week. It’s been four weeks since Currys last had the Xbox in stock. The retailer rarely goes more any longer than this without dropping consoles, though it usually bundles them with the Seagate 1TB expansion card (£198.63, Amazon.co.uk) or elite wireless controller (£149.99, Currys.co.uk).

We’ll alert you if Currys so much as blinks today.

What is Xbox Game Pass Ultimate?

Monday 24 January 2022 09:14 , Steve Hogarty

One of the big selling points for the new generation of Xbox consoles is the inclusion of Game Pass, a subscription service that gives users access to over 100 gaming titles. It’s all a big part of the value added when you sign up to the Xbox All Access programme.

Game Pass Ultimate includes all the benefits of Xbox Live so you can play multiplayer games online. It also gives you access to exclusive deals and discounts. It’s a great way to try out a lot of different titles without committing to a full purchase.

You can start your membership on the console dashboard, or grab a gift card online. Membership costs £10.99 (Game.co.uk) per month or £32.99 (Currys.co.uk) for 3 months.

Xbox All Access is available at Asda

Monday 24 January 2022 08:59 , Steve Hogarty

The Xbox series X is available at Asda through the Xbox All Access programme this morning.

The pay monthly scheme lets you spread the cost of the console over two years. There’s no up front payment, instead you pay £28.99 per month and you get two years of Game Pass Ultimate (worth £10.99 per month) included. Game Pass is a Netflix-style games-on-demand service giving you access to a library of over 100 games.

It’s good value, especially considering how expensive new games are, so we can heartily recommend grabbing a console this way.

Is the elite wireless controller worth it?

Monday 24 January 2022 08:47 , Steve Hogarty

Argos is bundling the Xbox series X with the super-premium, professional-grade, £150 elite wireless controller. But is it worth it?

Whether you’re more of a PC gamer or console gamer, there are plenty of first-party and third-party controllers to choose from. In a round up of the best gaming controllers, the Xbox elite controller series 2 made the top of our list. Our reviewer said: “A weighty controller it may be but the Xbox elite wireless controller series 2 packs in a lot, making it one of the most customisable controllers you could choose.”

Level up your gaming with the best wireless controllers for PC

Xbox series X gaming bundle available for EE customers

Monday 24 January 2022 08:35 , Steve Hogarty

Over at Kevin Bacon’s mobile phone company, EE is offering the Xbox series X as part of a bundled add-on for phone contracts. For an extra £31 per month over two years you can have Microsoft’s next-generation console on top of your new mobile.

Buy now

The Xbox series X is in stock at Argos

Monday 24 January 2022 08:16 , Steve Hogarty

Buy now

Argos is currently selling the Xbox series X bundled with Forza Horizon 5 and the elite wireless controller for £659.99.