The Microsoft Xbox Series X is now officially here! With a new design and improved hardware, the Series X is the most powerful console the company has ever released. The Series X pack a punch and is a worthy entrant in the ever-lasting Xbox vs Playstation debate.
It’s also just one console in Microsoft’s next-gen lineup, with the Xbox Series S launching as a more budget-friendly alternative. If you can’t decide between the Series X and the Series S, don’t forget to check our full comparison. In this article though, we take a closer look at everything about the Xbox Series X!
At a glance
The Xbox Series X is Microsoft’s flagship gaming system. It features cutting-edge technology that, on paper, offers peak performance that surpasses the competition. Unfortunately, it struggles a little out the gate due to a less-than-impressive launch library.
The good news is that everyone will have access to older titles at their highest quality and access to Microsoft’s fantastic game subscription service. Even better, a lot of next-gen titles will launch throughout 2021, which is all well and good, since it’s nearly impossible to get your hands on the Xbox Series X right now anyway.
We’ll dive into all the finer details below, but here’s the short version. Microsoft is playing the long game with the Xbox Series X. You won’t get the instant gratification most expect with a new launch, but the next-gen console has plenty of time to prove itself in the long run.
Is the Xbox Series X worth it?
The Xbox Series X is an impressive upgrade compared to its predecessors, and features the same starting price as the Xbox One X that launched back in 2017. The Series X has a lot going for it. It’s powerful, offers amazing backward compatibility support, and has an ace in the hole in Xbox Game Pass. Overall, it offers a great balance of power and value for money.
That said, Microsoft doesn’t offer a compelling reason to buy one just yet, especially if you have the Xbox One X. The launch library is limited, and you can play your games on an older console just as easily, even if not at the highest possible quality.
There’s definitely a lot to look forward to though! To answer the question, the Xbox Series X is absolutely worth it. If you’re looking to buy into the Xbox ecosystem for the first time, the Series X is the best choice. If you’re in the market for an upgrade though, you can hold off for a while. This is possibly what you’d have to do regardless, given how difficult it is to get your hands on one right now.
Experts’ take
Android Authority’s own Oliver Cragg reviewed the Xbox Series X and had a lot of good things to say about it. He’s a fan of the bold, yet understated design that is quite different from previous generations but still recognizably “Xbox.” Setting everything up is quick and simple, especially if you use the Xbox smartphone app.
He mentions that the Xbox Series X, despite its incredible internals, seems like an iterative update in a few ways. The new controller is straightforward and familiar, but doesn’t have a wow factor. The Xbox UI could use an overhaul, or at the very least, be a higher resolution. And as mentioned, the launch library is woefully lacking.
Oliver didn’t face any problems with the performance though, and the Xbox Game Pass is absolutely worth getting. The Xbox Series X offers everything we’d expect from a next-generation console, but as he says in conclusion, “Now it just needs some essential next-gen games to kickstart its legacy.”
Xbox Series X specs
The Xbox Series X is a massive step above the older Xbox One family, and is up to four times as powerful as its predecessor. Under the hood, the Series X features AMD‘s Zen 2 CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a custom-made AMD Navi-based 12 teraflop GPU. The new Xbox console also has a custom 1TB NVMe SSD, with read speeds as high as 2GB per second.
There’s also an expansion slot in the back of the console for additional storage, which plugs right into the motherboard to provide the same incredible speeds. The goal is to decrease loading times to a minimum and provide ultra-fast environment rendering. On top of the new internals, the Series X also features a Blu-ray disk reader for playing your favorite games and movies and supporting 4K, HDR10, and Dolby Vision technology.
The Xbox Series X offers support for up to 120fps and 8K resolution.
As for games, the next-gen console can support up to 120fps and 8K resolution, although it’s unlikely to achieve both simultaneously. The goal is to provide a consistent 60fps at 4K, which current-gen consoles like the Xbox One X and PlayStation 4 Pro struggle to achieve even at 1080p.
Microsoft also introduced hardware-accelerated ray tracing on the Xbox Series X, which improves the real-time rendering of light and shadows. On PCs, ray tracing is limited to high-end GPUs like the Nvidia RTX 2080 series, which alone can cost more than a new gaming console. You’ll also need a TV or a monitor with a high refresh rate and high resolution to take advantage of Xbox Series X’s great visuals.
To house all this powerful new Xbox hardware, the console’s physical size has ballooned. The Xbox Series X resembles a small PC tower that’s approximately 6 inches by 6 inches at the base, and 18 inches tall. It also features a perforated top with a powerful (but quiet) fan inside. According to Microsoft, its size and highly engineered airflow design will guarantee minimal noise while gaming. We found that to be true in our review as well. The console stayed mostly silent even after a few hours of gaming.
The Xbox Series X is a herculean console that will more than hold its own against the latest from its long-time rival Sony PlayStation.
New Xbox Series X features
One new Xbox feature is Microsoft’s new cloud streaming service, included as part of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Similar to and Google Stadia or Geforce Now, it allows you to stream games from the cloud onto your console, PC, or smartphone. This allows you to bypass download, install, and update times to hop right into the game.
Thanks to its access to the massive Xbox content library, Microsoft is already touting its superiority over other budding cloud gaming services like Stadia. There’s also Remote Play for those that want to stream directly from their console to mobile devices. This is far more stable, though you’ll still have to suffer through some hefty input lag when playing. Nevertheless, it’s a handy option to have when someone else wants to take over the TV and you’re not quite ready to quit.
Once games are installed, the upgraded SSD should drastically reduce load times in-game vs the HDDs of older-gen Xbox consoles. While it is a hair shy of the PS5’s new storage option’s speeds, it does have a slightly larger capacity, so it should fit more games. Either way, it’s a massive upgrade from current-gen consoles that will be felt in every new or old game.
The Xbox Series X can add HDR and improve framerates of Xbox One and Xbox 360 games.
One of the most exciting features is Quick Resume, for those who share a console or like to switch games. The Xbox Series X can store several exact game states, so you can switch between games without having to start from the loading screen. Oliver found in his review that the switch doesn’t take longer than 10 seconds, and he could keep up to 5 games running at a time.
Another interesting new feature breathes new life into older titles by enhancing their graphics. Using its powerful internals and machine learning technology, the Xbox Series X can add HDR and improve framerates of launched years ago. Even Xbox 360 games are compatible, and will look better than ever on the new Xbox consoles.
Xbox Series X vs Series S?
The Xbox Series X isn’t the only new console in the 2020 Xbox lineup, with the cheaper all-digital Xbox Series S also now available. It looks like a much better buy for gamers on a budget (or without a 4K TV).
The Xbox Series S has the same CPU as the Xbox Series X, but with a much less powerful GPU. The console is still more powerful than an Xbox One X, but targets 60fps at 1440p instead of native 4K like the Xbox Series X. It can still be upscaled to 4K, and supports framerates of up to 120fps.
The Xbox Series S has all the same features of the Series X, but with less GPU power to target 1440p at 60fps.
Removing the more powerful GPU hardware and the disk drive has enabled the Xbox team to reduce the console’s size by 60% compared to the (admittedly beefy) Xbox Series X. This will make it a much more comfortable fit in most entertainment centers, although what this means for heat dissipation and noise is yet to be seen.
Apart from the resolution and size, the two consoles share all the same new features mentioned above, like Quick Resume, an upgraded SSD, ray tracing, and more. It’s the cheapest way to access next-gen hardware and games, although you won’t get next-gen resolutions.
Xbox Series X controller
Another notable change for the Series X is the new controller design seen above. Xbox Series X controllers are a touch more ergonomic than their predecessors, but is familiar for the most part.
Read also: The 10 best PC game controllers you can get
The controller’s button layout is virtually identical to previous controllers, and it features a textured surface on the triggers and bumpers. The rubberized surface is also found on the controller’s back for enhanced grip and comfort — even in extended play sessions.
The biggest change is that the D-pad has been replaced with the improved design from the premium Xbox Elite Wireless controller Series 2. This should make playing fighting games in particular much more precise and enjoyable to play.
Following in Sony’s footsteps, Microsoft will also introduce a screenshot sharing button. This will allow you to capture and share gameplay without resorting to clumsy cables and adaptors.
Like the previous iteration, the Xbox Series X Wireless Controller will be fully compatible with Windows PCs right out of the box. They’ll also be compatible with Android and iOS devices via Bluetooth. We fully expect them to dethrone the Xbox One Wireless controller as one of the best mobile controllers out there.
It’s also worth noting Xbox Series X/S controllers will work with the older Xbox One family, and vice versa.
Xbox Series X games
We’ll be honest, the initial launch library for the Xbox Series X isn’t great. Thanks largely to COVID-19, many of the better next-gen games have been delayed into 2021, and most of what you get is “upgraded” last-gen titles and third party content. Still, there are 30 games, so it’s a decent number — there’s just no day-one killer app yet.
Many of the launch games will support Microsoft’s Smart Delivery feature, which means if you buy one or bought one of those games for the older Xbox One console, you will get the optimized Xbox Series X or S version for free. Also, some of the games will be available on Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
- Assassin’s Creed Valhalla (Smart Delivery)
- Borderlands 3 (Smart Delivery)
- Bright Memory 1.0
- Cuisine Royale (Smart Delivery)
- Dead by Daylight (Xbox Game Pass + Smart Delivery)
- Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition
- DIRT 5 (Smart Delivery)
- Enlisted
- Evergate
- The Falconeer (Smart Delivery)
- Fortnite
- Forza Horizon 4 (Xbox Game Pass + Smart Delivery)
- Gears 5 (Xbox Game Pass + Smart Delivery)
- Gears Tactics (Xbox Game Pass + Smart Delivery)
- Grounded (Xbox Game Pass + Smart Delivery)
- King Oddball (Smart Delivery)
- Maneater (Smart Delivery)
- Manifold Garden (Smart Delivery)
- NBA 2K21
- Observer: System Redux
- Ori and the Will of the Wisps (Xbox Game Pass + Smart Delivery)
- Planet Coaster (Smart Delivery)
- Sea of Thieves (Xbox Game Pass + Smart Delivery)
- Tetris Effect: Connected (Xbox Game Pass + Smart Delivery)
- The Touryst (Xbox Game Pass + Smart Delivery)
- War Thunder (Smart Delivery)
- Warhammer: Chaosbane Slayer Edition
- Watch Dogs: Legion (Smart Delivery)
- WRC 9 FIA World Rally Championship (Smart Delivery)
- Yakuza: Like a Dragon (Smart Delivery)
- Yes, Your Grace (Smart Delivery)
Xbox Series X backwards compatibility
Backwards compatibility has always been a contentious issue with console gaming, but Microsoft has been excellent at extending the life of older libraries. The Xbox Series X will be fully backwards compatible with all Xbox One games. This includes any games that work on the console, including Xbox 360 and original Xbox games that are part of the current backward compatibility program. That’s four generations of backwards compatibility, for those keeping score.
Read also: The best Xbox One games you can buy: Halo, Gears, Forza, and more
Older games will also look even better than before, thanks to the previously mentioned visual enhancements. Things that were impossible at the time, like higher framerates and HDR, are added after the fact by the new Xbox’s powerful processor and machine learning tech.
As mentioned above, Microsoft has also announced a smart delivery program that automatically upgrades certain cross-gen titles as soon as you upgrade your console. This is even better than backwards compatibility because supported games will effectively be native Series X games, even if you bought the boxed Xbox One version.
Xbox Series X is here, but where can you get it, and how much does it cost
The Xbox Series X formally hit shelves November 10 alongside the Xbox Series S. Unfortunately, right now, getting an Xbox Series X online is all-but impossible. Your best bet would be to try a local store, especially if you live in a more rural area. Even then, the odds aren’t great. Judging by past console launches, you’re looking sometime into mid-2021 before getting an Xbox Series X proves easy.
You can get the Xbox Series X on Amazon right now, but only at a premium. Third-party retailers are charging exorbitant prices, often double the $499 retail price for the console. Still, if you absolutely want it and money is no object, this is your best chance.
Here is a full list of Xbox Series X and Series S prices around the globe:
- Australia: AU$749 and AU$499
- Europe: €499 and €299
- India: ₹49,990 and ₹34,990
- United Kingdom: £449 and £249.99
- United States: $499 and $299
What is Xbox All Access?
If you live outside the United States, you might not be familiar with the Xbox All Access program, but it’s one of the best ways to get your hands on the newest Xbox consoles without breaking the bank.
Xbox All Access allows you to pay for the console in monthly installments over the course of two years. You also get access to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which features hundreds of games to play on your Xbox console, PC, or Android phone (via xCloud).
To get your hands on an Xbox Series X with the Xbox All Access program, it will cost you $35 a month. Over time, this works out to be slightly cheaper than paying for both the console and two years of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate individually. The Xbox Series S will cost $25 a month, making it a very affordable pathway to next-gen gaming.
With the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S release, Microsoft is expanding the Xbox All Access program to 12 countries. More countries will be added in 2021, but here is the full list of supported countries and retailers for the 2020 launch period.
- Australia (Telstra)
- Canada (EB Games)
- Denmark (Elgiganten)
- Finland (Gigantti)
- France (FNAC)
- New Zealand (Spark)
- Norway (Elkjøp)
- Poland (Media Expert)
- South Korea (SK Telecom)
- Sweden (Elgiganten)
- UK (GAME, Smyths Toys)
- United States (Best Buy, GameStop, Target, Microsoft Store, Walmart)
Xbox Series X accessories
Xbox Core Controller
Microsoft has released a new controller for the Xbox Series S and X consoles. While the new Xbox Core Controller looks very similar to the older gamepad made for the Xbox One consoles, it does have a few new features. The biggest is the new share button that’s right in the middle of the gamepad.
The new controller has a USB-C port used to charge up a rechargeable battery (sold separately) if you don’t want to use its two AA batteries. The D-pad has a new design that people will enjoy. You can buy extra Xbox Core Controllers now, starting at $59.99.
Xbox Play and Charge Kit
Buying new batteries is a drag, and this simple kit will allow you to do away with AA batteries for good. Much like its predecessors on older Xbox consoles, this pack plugs into the back of your controller to provide power, and recharges when plugged in via USB-C. A single kit will cost $24.99. This sounds expensive, but if you think about how many batteries you’d have to buy over the years, it’s worth it.
SSD extra storage
A 1TB SSD by Seagate is designed specifically for both the Xbox Series S and X consoles. All you have to do is connect it to the back of the console. Seagate claims that its expansion SSD will be just as fast as Microsoft’s internal SSD. The bad news? It’s very pricy.
Other FAQ
Is the Xbox Series X better than the PS5?
Obviously, it’s too early to tell, but on paper, the Xbox Series X does look more powerful than the PS5. However, which console ultimately comes out on top will have more to do with game selection than raw power. Check out our full Xbox Series X vs PS5 comparison for more details.
Will the Xbox Series X have VR?
No, the Xbox Series X will not support VR at launch. Despite Sony’s PlayStation VR support, VR on consoles remains a tiny portion of gamers. As such, Microsoft doesn’t see it as a priority. That said, it remains popular on Windows PCs. Xbox head Phil Spencer hasn’t ruled out bringing VR to the Xbox Series X in the near future.
Can the Xbox Series X play PC games?
The Xbox Series X works very closely with Windows PC games through the Xbox Play Anywhere program and Project xCloud. Many Xbox Series X exclusive games, like Halo: Infinite, will also be released as PC games. Microsoft hasn’t announced if these will be a part of the Xbox Play Anywhere program with cross-saves and shared achievements though. Unsubstantiated rumors suggest that the Series X will support Steam in a new console version of Windows.
Can the Xbox Series X lay on its side?
Yes, it can be placed on its side or upright. Airflow has been optimized for both setups, although the console’s physical size may prohibit placement on many shelving systems.
Does the Xbox Series X have ray tracing?
Yes, the console will feature hardware-accelerated ray tracing, made possible by a custom GPU made in partnership with AMD.
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