Xbox Game Pass remains one of the most popular gaming subscriptions in the U.S., but with the launch of Game Pass Premium, many players are now asking which plan offers the most value.
This guide breaks down pricing, features, perks, and game libraries to help you decide between Premium and Ultimate — especially after the latest Game Pass price increase that has affected both tiers.
Pricing and Availability – Game Pass Premium vs Ultimate
- Game Pass Premium: $14.99/month in the U.S.
- Game Pass Ultimate: $29.99/month – This is the new price, which was previously listed $19.99.
The recent Xbox Game Pass price increase has narrowed the price gap between both plans, making your choice more about perks than cost alone.
Game Library Comparison
Both tiers provide access to hundreds of titles, but Premium promises a larger catalog with more legacy and third-party releases.
Explore the Game Pass Premium Game List to see exactly which bonus games and exclusives come with the higher-tier plan.
Perks and Extras
Game Pass Ultimate still includes cloud gaming, EA Play, and same-day releases for new Xbox titles.
Meanwhile, Premium builds on that by adding extended cloud saves, early access events, and more exclusive in-game rewards.
One of the headline perks this year is the integration of Fortnite Crew Xbox Game Pass for both Ultimate and Premium subscribers — a major bonus for Fortnite fans who used to pay for Crew separately.
Which Plan Is Best for You?
- Choose Ultimate if you want day-one releases, EA Play, and cloud gaming at a slightly lower price.
- Choose Premium if you want the expanded game catalog, extra rewards, and bundled perks like Fortnite Crew without paying separately.
For most casual players, Ultimate remains a solid choice. Hardcore gamers who want the biggest library and all the extras may find Premium worth the extra $5.
Final Word
The choice between Game Pass Premium vs Ultimate comes down to how much you value a bigger library and exclusive perks.
If you’re mostly interested in new releases and core features, stick with Ultimate. But if you want the widest selection of games and added rewards, Premium delivers better long-term value despite the Game Pass price hike.
