Yes, you can change your PUBG username, but the process and limits depend on which version you play

PUBG lets you change your in-game name, though the exact steps differ between PUBG: Battlegrounds (the free-to-play PC and console version) and PUBG Mobile. On PC and console, you get one free name change when you first create your account, then paid changes after that. On mobile, the system works differently — you can change your name more often, but the method varies by whether you're on iOS or Android.

The key thing to know upfront: changing your name does not affect your account security, rank, or progress. Your stats, cosmetics, and battle pass stay exactly where they are. The change is purely cosmetic and takes effect when ready in most cases.

Key Takeaways

  • PUBG: Battlegrounds on PC and console gives you one free name change at account creation, then requires payment for additional changes.
  • You change your name through your account settings on the platform you play on — not through a separate website or launcher.
  • Name changes take effect right away, and your rank, cosmetics, and battle pass progress do not disappear.
  • PUBG Mobile has different name-change rules than the PC and console versions, with more frequent changes possible.

Changing your name on PUBG: Battlegrounds PC

On PC, open the PUBG launcher and log into your account. Click on your profile icon in the top right corner, then select Account Settings. Look for the Profile or Character section — the exact label depends on your launcher version, but it's where your current in-game name appears.

If you have never changed your name before, you'll see an option to change it for free. Click that option, type your new name, and confirm. The name takes effect when ready. If you've already used your free change, you'll see a price listed — this varies by region but typically costs a small amount of in-game currency or real money. You'll need to purchase that currency first through the launcher's shop before you can proceed.

Names must be between 3 and 16 characters, contain only letters, numbers, and underscores, and cannot be profane or impersonate other players. If your chosen name breaks these rules, the system will reject it and ask you to try again.

Changing your name on PUBG: Battlegrounds console

On PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch, the process is similar but happens through your console's account system first. Go to your console's settings and make sure your profile name is what you want it to be — this is your console username, not your PUBG name.

Then launch PUBG and go to Settings from the main menu. Select Account, then look for Profile or Character Name. Your PUBG name may sync with your console username on first login, but you can change it independently from here. The same rules explore: one free change, then paid changes after that, with the same character limits and restrictions.

On console, the name change usually takes effect within a few minutes. If you're playing with friends, they may still see your old name briefly until their game refreshes, but this clears within an hour.

Changing your name on PUBG Mobile

PUBG Mobile handles name changes more loosely than the PC and console versions. You can change your name more frequently, and the first change is usually free. Open the game and tap your profile icon, then select Edit Profile or Change Nickname — the exact wording depends on your device and app version.

Type your new name and confirm. On Android, the change takes effect when ready. On iOS, there can be a slight delay of a few minutes. You can change your name again after a set cooldown period, which is typically 30 days but may vary depending on your region and the current app version.

If you've changed your name recently and want to change it again, the system will tell you when you're may be able to access to do so. Unlike the PC version, you won't see a payment option — mobile name changes are handled through the free cooldown system rather than a purchase system.

What happens to your account when you change your name

Your rank, rating, and seasonal progress stay attached to your account no matter how many times you change your name. If you were Diamond rank before the change, you'll still be Diamond rank after. Your cosmetics, skins, and battle pass rewards don't move or disappear. Friends who have you added will see your new name the next time they log in.

The only thing that changes is what appears above your character in-game and on leaderboards. Your account ID — a separate number that identifies you behind the scenes — never changes. This is why PUBG can track your stats across name changes and why you can't use name changes to hide your history or reset your rank.

Reasons your name change might not work

If you try to change your name and get an error, the most common cause is that the name you chose is already taken. PUBG does not allow duplicate names, so if someone else is using the exact name you want, you'll need to pick something different. Try adding a number or underscore to make it unique.

Another reason is that your name contains forbidden characters or words. The system blocks profanity, slurs, and impersonation attempts automatically. If you're unsure why a name was rejected, try something simpler with only letters and numbers, then add special characters once you confirm the basic name works.

On console, if your name change doesn't appear in-game, make sure you've restarted the game after making the change. Sometimes the client needs to refresh to display the new name to other players, even though it shows correctly on your end when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my name back to what it was before?

Yes, if no one else has claimed that name in the meantime. Since name changes are permanent once confirmed, you can pick any available name on your next change. If your old name is taken, you'll need to contact PUBG support to see if they can help, though they typically cannot force a name release.

How much does it cost to change your name after the free change?

The price varies by region and platform. On PC, it typically costs between 300 and 1,000 G-Coin, which translates to a few dollars depending on your region. Console pricing follows the same pattern. Mobile does not use a payment system — you get cooldown-based changes instead.

Will my friends still see me on their friends list after I change my name?

Yes. Your account ID stays the same, so you'll remain on their friends list under your new name. They'll see the updated name the next time they log in or refresh their friends list in-game.

Can I change my name if I'm banned or suspended?

No. If your account is under suspension or ban, you cannot access account settings or make any changes until the suspension ends. If you're permanently banned, you cannot change your name on that account.

What if someone else is using a name similar to mine and I want to report them?

PUBG does not remove names based on similarity alone. You can report a player for impersonation only if they're actively pretending to be you — using your exact name and trying to deceive others into thinking they're your account. Report through the in-game report system with evidence of the impersonation attempt.