How to change your gamertag on Xbox

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Learn how to change your gamertag on Xbox Series X and S in just a few easy steps

An image of a white Xbox Series S and a black Xbox Series X next to each other on a black, reflective surface. Each has a matching colored controller rested on the console.
(Image credit: Future)

If you cringe when you see your online name, then knowing how to change your gamertag on Xbox is the answer. It means you can finally rid yourself of that embarrassing gamertag handle — or simply opt for something with a bit more thought rather than the one you chose because you just wanted to get up-and-running with your console as soon as possible.

Here we are going to concentrate mainly on changing your gamertag on the Xbox Series S and the Xbox Series X although we also cover how to do it online. As you'll see, the method is relatively straightforward, so your main challenge will be coming up with something suitable. If you plan on streaming your gameplay, or publishing screenshots that will include your gamertag, make sure you don't choose anything too rude. 

Here's how to change your gamertag on Xbox.

How to change your gamertag on Xbox via the web

Perhaps the easiest way to alter your gamertag is via a browser.

1. Go to https://social.xbox.com/changegamertag and sign in using your Microsoft account details. This should be the account associated with the Xbox profile that you want to make changes to.

(Image credit: Future)

2. Enter your new gamertag — this will replace the existing one. You can use up to 12 characters and you cannot start your gamertag with a number.

(Image credit: Future)

3. Select Check availability. If your gamertag is already being used, you will be asked to input another one.

(Image credit: Future)

4. Otherwise, if you're happy, select Change gamertag.

(Image credit: Future)

How to change your gamertag on Xbox via the console

It is also possible to change your gamertag via an Xbox Series S or Series X console.

1. Press the Xbox button on your controller to access the console's menu.

(Image credit: Microsoft)

2. Now, navigate to the Profile & System tab at the top of the menu and select your Xbox profile.

(Image credit: Future)

3. When your profile appears as a pop-up, select My profile.

(Image credit: Future)

4. You can now choose Customise profile from the right-side menu.

(Image credit: Future)

5. Select your current gamertag which will be shown to the left of the screen.

(Image credit: Future)

6. Enter your new gamertag — this will replace the existing one. You can use up to 12 characters and you cannot start your gamertag with a number.

(Image credit: Future)

7. Select Check availability. If your gamertag is already being used, you will be asked to input another one.

(Image credit: Future)

8. Otherwise, if you're happy, select Change gamertag.

(Image credit: Future)

And there you go. You now know how to change your gamertag on Xbox. If you'd like more helpful advice on using your Xbox, learn how to set up parental controls on Xbox Series X or S and how to clear the cache on Xbox Series S and X. And if you decide you don't want to use Microsoft services any more, you can even learn how to delete a Microsoft account. 

Handheld gamers: just got a new Steam Deck? We also have plenty of guides to show you how to use your new mini gaming PC. Get started by learning how to update a Steam Deck.

David Crookes
David Crookes
Contributor

David Crookes is a freelance writer, reporter, editor and author. He has written for technology and gaming magazines including Retro Gamer, Web User, Micro Mart, MagPi, Android, iCreate, Total PC Gaming, T3 and Macworld. He has also covered crime, history, politics, education, health, sport, film, music and more, and been a producer for BBC Radio 5 Live.