GUIDE TO EA FC 26 EDITIONS - STANDARD VS ULTIMATE
The upcoming release of EA Sports FC 26 is a great opportunity to take a closer look at the available editions of the game.
Players can choose between two versions: FC 26 Standard Edition and FC 26 Ultimate Edition.
In this article, we’ll break down the differences, what each edition includes, and which one might be the best choice for you. If you’re planning to buy, check out our offers - prices are attractive and the purchase is 100% safe.
FC 26 STANDARD EDITION - WHAT DOES THE BASE GAME INCLUDE?
The Standard Edition of FC 26 is the classic version of the game, perfect for those who just want to play and enjoy all modes - from Ultimate Team to Career Mode, Volta, and Clubs. It’s designed for players who don’t need extra bonuses and simply want to enjoy the gameplay and core mechanics without the pressure of competing with others players from the start.
FC 26 Standard Edition includes:
- Full version of EA Sports FC 26
- 3 ICONS available in Manager and Player Career
- 5-star manager in Career Mode (Manager available with 5 stars in every category)
- 5-star youth scout in Career Mode (Youth scout available with 5 stars in every category)
- Live Manager Challenges content
- One untradeable ICON rated 92+ in EA Sports FC 25
- One-time Archetype Unlock Card (Unlock an additional Archetype in Clubs without spending Club Coins)
- 2 one-time Double AXP cards for 10 matches (Boost your Archetypes faster in Clubs with 2 one-time cards providing double AXP for 10 matches)
For many, this is more than enough, as the base version already offers huge possibilities. Career Mode allows you to run your own club, Volta provides dynamic street football, and Ultimate Team lets you build your dream squad.
FC 26 ULTIMATE EDITION - WHAT DOES THE EXPANDED VERSION INCLUDE?
The Ultimate Edition of FC 26 is tailored for more engaged players, especially those who plan to spend a lot of time in Ultimate Team (FUT). This version offers a range of exclusive bonuses and early access to the game, giving players an advantage from day one. Thanks to extra FC Points and a premium season pass, you can develop your squad faster and unlock rewards more quickly.
FC 26 Ultimate Edition includes:
- All Standard Edition bonuses
- 7 days of early access starting September 19
- 6000 FC Points for UT (delivered in three installments: 2000 at launch, 2000 at the end of October, 2000 at the end of November)
- 2 Evolution slots from the start of the game (instead of just one as in Standard Edition)
- Premium Season 1 Pass
- Pre-order bonuses available until August 26 (untradeable ICON, special evolution, and other extras)
With early access, Ultimate Edition players can start a week before the official release, allowing them to progress in FUT faster and secure early wins. The extra points also allow for quicker investment in card packs and squad building compared to Standard Edition players.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FC 26 STANDARD EDITION AND FC 26 ULTIMATE EDITION
Below is a summary of all the differences between the two versions of the game:
|
|
Standard |
Ultimate |
|
Full version of the game |
Yes |
Yes |
|
3 ICONS in Manager and Player Career |
Yes |
Yes |
|
5-star Manager and Youth Scout in Career |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Live Manager Challenges |
Yes |
Yes |
|
ICON rated 92+ in EA FC 25 |
Yes |
Yes |
|
One-time Archetype Unlock Card |
Yes |
Yes |
|
2 One-time Double AXP Cards for 10 Matches |
Yes |
Yes |
|
7-day early access |
No |
Yes |
|
6000 FC Points |
No |
Yes |
|
2 Evolution slots from the start |
No |
Yes |
|
Premium Season 1 Pass |
No |
Yes |
|
Untradeable ICON in EA FC 26 |
No |
Yes* |
|
Evolution raising Shooting to 99 in EA FC 25 |
No |
Yes* |
|
1 of 5 untradeable ICONs rated 93+ in EA FC 25 |
No |
Yes* |
*Only for orders placed by 26th August.
PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
EA SPORTS FC 26 Standard Edition: from $69.99 (PC) and $69.99 (Xbox/PlayStation)
EA SPORTS FC 26 Ultimate Edition: from $99.99 (PC) and $99.99 (Xbox/PlayStation)
EA Play membership gives you a 10% discount.
Both editions will be available digitally and physically.
The digital copy allows you to play on release day without waiting for delivery, while the boxed version may appeal to collectors who prefer a physical copy.
Keep in mind that team development is a long-term process, and bigger investments don’t always guarantee instant success. Ultimately, the best choice depends on how much time you plan to spend playing and how important early progress is to you.
FC 26 - WHICH EDITION SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
- If you play casually and don’t care about extra bonuses - choose the Standard Edition.
- If you plan to actively play Ultimate Team and want an early advantage - go for the Ultimate Edition.
For Standard Edition players, buying FC 26 Coins can be a good way to level the playing field with Ultimate Edition owners, allowing you to improve your squad more quickly.
WHERE TO BUY FC 26 AND WHEN DOES PRE-ORDER START?
Pre-orders for FC 26 are already live in digital stores such as PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, and EA App for PC. Physical copies are also available in major retail chains.
➡ Buy FC 26 Standard Edition
➡ Buy FC 26 Ultimate Edition
Purchasing through our site is 100% safe and we offer attractive prices compared to other platforms.
Official release date for FC 26 (Standard Edition): September 26, 2025
Early access for Ultimate Edition: September 19, 2025
SUMMARY - FC 26 EDITIONS AT A GLANCE
FC 26 Standard Edition is the classic version without major extras.
FC 26 Ultimate Edition is the expanded package for players who want a head start.
Each edition has its target audience, and players can pick the one that best fits their needs.
Some bonuses are only available with pre-orders, so it’s worth acting quickly. Buying from us guarantees a safe transaction and great prices compared to other stores.
