The holiday period brings a wave of intentionally kitschy branded products from companies, and Microsoft is joining in with multiple selections, featuring a fresh design from the Windows group.
Buyers have access to three distinct ugly sweaters: a Windows-themed option known as the Artifact Holiday Sweater, a Zune-inspired piece, and an Xbox holiday variant—ideal for those wanting to sport holiday flair with a tech twist. These items are offered through Microsoft's official merchandise site, with the Xbox sweater available for pre-order at $59.99. The remaining two models are priced at $79.95 apiece and ready for instant buying.
The Artifact Holiday Sweater captures the essence of tacky holiday wear through its blend of orange, green, and blue, framed around recognizable Microsoft elements from various eras: a Minecraft creeper figure, the Clippy helper icon, the Internet Explorer symbol, a Minesweeper indicator, and the Copilot emblem that appears in numerous products.
Opting for the Zune sweater reveals a seasonally fitting brown fabric displaying the well-known but obsolete Zune emblem, complemented by orange accents to complete the look.
Those seeking a bolder choice suitable for tech enthusiast events might prefer the Xbox sweater, which proves surprisingly stylish. Its main palette consists of black and green, incorporating a design that mimics snow descending in the dark.
Given their popularity, these sweaters could exhaust supplies soon, so potential purchasers should move quickly—the Artifact version appears to have already run out. Options span from extra-small to 4XL. Drawing from earlier acquisitions of Microsoft's sweaters tied to causes such as Girls Who Code (absent this season), the cuts typically feel tighter than expected.
Gaming enthusiasts also have the chance to acquire a Master Chief bathrobe for $69.95, although Microsoft lists only 25 units remaining for this Halo-related item. Hurry to secure one!