In this guide, we’ll explore what Xbox Rewards are, how they work, and how you can easily earn and redeem them. First, let’s explore what Xbox Rewards actually are. Just as the name suggests, these are special rewards for Xbox console users. You can earn points by doing simple tasks, from using Microsoft Edge to completing a quest in a game. Once you earn these points, you can redeem them for different items such as gift cards or Game Pass subscriptions.
Xbox Rewards vs Microsoft Rewards
Many people are confused by the difference between Microsoft Rewards and Xbox Rewards. While the names are different, they both work together. Microsoft Rewards can be earned by completing tasks using Microsoft products like Edge or Bing, whereas Xbox Rewards are earned through activities on Xbox, such as launching a game. All points you earn—whether from Xbox or other Microsoft services—are combined into your total balance, which you can then redeem (more on that shortly). For example, if you earn 30 Microsoft Reward points for searching on Edge and 20 Xbox Reward points for completing a gaming task, you’ll have a total of 50 points. We’ll refer to these as Xbox Rewards, which can then be redeemed for a variety of products.
How to Earn Xbox Rewards?
Wondering how to start earning these rewards? Here are the main ways you can collect Xbox Reward points:
Using Edge & Bing: You can earn rewards by using Edge and Bing for your everyday searches. Just switch to Edge and make your searches as usual—every search can add up to five points. If you use Edge across multiple devices (while signed in with the same account), you can maximize your points.Using Bing for searchesUsing Microsoft Store: Earn rewards by purchasing apps or games from the Microsoft Store. Your earned points increase based on how much you spend.App purchase on Microsoft StoreTrivias and Puzzles: Head to the Microsoft Rewards website and scroll to Activities. Here, you can complete quizzes and puzzles to earn points (usually 5, 10, or 15 each).Logging in to the Xbox App: Signing in to the Xbox mobile app daily also gives you bonuses. Keep your login streak going to earn more points each day—starting with 5 points on day one.Playing the Featured Game: Every day, there’s a featured mobile game on the Xbox app. Play and clear a level to earn points.Having Xbox Friends: If you have 7 or more Xbox friends, you’ll receive 15 points daily. Play games together for additional rewards.Launching & Playing a PC Game: Launch a PC game that’s not on Xbox Game Pass each day, spend a few minutes playing or in the lobby, then close it to earn points.Monthly and Weekly Tasks: There are also weekly and monthly challenges. These are usually a bit harder than daily tasks, but they offer bigger rewards within their longer timeframes.
How to Redeem Xbox Rewards?
After collecting your points, it’s time to get your actual reward. You can redeem these points for products you would otherwise pay for. Depending on your point total, you can claim a variety of rewards. We recommend checking out the “Shop” section (as shown above) to view offers for gift cards, Game Pass, and different subscription services.
Why Microsoft Reward Points Need to Improve on Xbox?
Although the reward system is a good start, there are a few areas where Microsoft could make improvements. The main concern is that it takes a long time for users to earn points, which wouldn’t be a big issue if the points were more valuable. Not only are points slow to accumulate, but even once you have them, their value is quite low. For instance, 5,000 reward points will only get you a $5 gift card at best. Monthly and weekly tasks aren’t as generous as they used to be. For example, a monthly challenge that was once worth 2,000 points may now be worth just 1,000 points. This makes it much harder to earn enough points for meaningful rewards.
