Xbox mode on Windows 10
An Xbox mode alternative for Windows 10 and 11
Microsoft's Xbox mode turns a Windows 11 PC into a console-style, full-screen home. It began rolling out on 30 April 2026, in select markets, and Windows 10 isn't part of it. Onyro is a free couch game launcher that brings the same idea to Windows 10 (version 21H2 or later) and Windows 11.
What you get with Onyro
- One shelf for Steam, the Xbox app (including installed PC Game Pass games), Epic Games, GOG, EA app, Ubisoft Connect, Battle.net, Rockstar Games Launcher, Riot Client and itch.io, found on its own.
- Switch on your controller and Onyro opens, once you pick the start-up helper.
- Hold Select and Start for three seconds and your controller becomes a mouse anywhere in Windows.
- Exit, restart or shut down the PC from the controller, with a confirmation each time.
- Xbox and PlayStation controllers out of the box.
- Free, with no account and no paid tier.
Onyro and Xbox mode side by side
| Onyro | Xbox mode | |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 10 | Yes, version 21H2 or later | No, Windows 11 only |
| Games on the shelf | Installed games from ten launchers, plus any folder you add | The Game Pass catalogue plus installed games from major PC stores |
| Browse and install Game Pass games | No, Onyro shows what's installed | Yes |
| Price | Free | Free, built into Windows 11 |
| How you get it | Microsoft Store | Windows Update, in select markets |
When Xbox mode is the better pick
If you live in Game Pass and want to browse, install and stream from the whole catalogue, Xbox mode is built for that, and Microsoft keeps adding to it. Onyro focuses on the games you already have installed, across every launcher, with a built-in controller mouse and power options.
Set up Onyro in two minutes
- Get Onyro free from the Microsoft Store.
- Open it once at your desk. Onyro finds your installed games on its own.
- When it asks how to start with Windows, choose the helper.
- From then on, sign in to Windows, sit down and switch on your controller.
Get Onyro free from Microsoft Store
Questions
Can I get Xbox mode on Windows 10?
Microsoft is rolling Xbox mode out to Windows 11 PCs. On Windows 10, Onyro gives you a full-screen, controller-first shelf instead.
Does Onyro show my PC Game Pass games?
Yes, the ones installed through the Xbox app. Onyro shows installed games. It doesn't browse the Game Pass catalogue.
Does Onyro need an account?
No. Onyro has no account or sign-in. Your launchers keep their own sign-ins.
Get Onyro free from Microsoft Store
Xbox mode details from Microsoft's announcement on Xbox Wire, 30 April 2026.
Updated 23 October 2026.