Table of Contents
1 Introduction
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
Diving headfirst into the latest wave of next-generation gaming, we’re presenting a detailed, albeit positively biased, review of the Xbox Series X, Microsoft’s foray into the future of interactive entertainment. Given its hype as the “fastest, most powerful Xbox ever,” we will unpack the Series X, looking under its hood to understand what makes this console tick and why it has garnered such widespread acclaim from casual and hardcore gamers alike.
The Xbox Series X landed on our doorstep, presenting itself in a package with dimensions measuring 5.94 x 11.85 x 5.94 inches and tipping the scale at 13.1 pounds. Released on September 22, 2020, this gaming console has established itself as a titan of modern gaming, pushing the boundaries of what was previously possible on home consoles.
2 Unboxing and First Impressions
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
As you slide the Xbox Series X box open, there’s a sense of anticipation that builds up, much akin to unraveling a well-kept secret. It’s a magical experience that Microsoft has successfully packaged into this unassuming box. The console itself is nestled comfortably inside the box, surrounded by foam for protection, pointing to a thoughtfully planned packaging process.
On first contact, the Xbox Series X immediately impresses you with its stately appearance and cold-to-touch exterior, hinting at the powerful, high-quality components housed within. It presents itself as a neatly compact, rectangular monolith, boldly defying the standard horizontal layout seen in many past consoles.
Accompanying the console, you’ll find a neatly wrapped, high-speed HDMI cable, ready to output your games at the best possible quality on your TV or gaming monitor. The power cable included is standard, with no bulky power brick attached to it, signifying that the power supply unit is built directly into the console – a welcome feature for many.
Microsoft Xbox Series X
The inclusion of two A batteries serves as a reminder of the wireless controller awaiting your touch. This controller, which comes in a similar black to the console, is beautifully designed with a textured finish that promises a good grip, reducing the chances of it slipping during those intense gaming sessions. The familiar Xbox button layout greets you, but with a new, tactile share button in the center, making it easier than ever to share your gaming highlights with friends.
Also packaged in are some straightforward setup instructions to help you get your console up and running. It’s worth mentioning that the Series X is easy to set up, with Microsoft taking great care to ensure the process is as simple and user-friendly as possible. Within a few minutes, you’re able to fire up the console, basking in the glow of its start-up screen and the crisp sound that signifies the beginning of a new gaming chapter.
In summary, the unboxing experience of the Xbox Series X provides a grand prelude to the powerful gaming journey ahead. From the protective packaging to the high-quality accessories and the striking first impression of the console itself, Microsoft has clearly gone to great lengths to create a premium unboxing experience, fitting for their most powerful console to date.
3 Design and Build Quality
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
The design and build quality of the Xbox Series X are clear reflections of Microsoft’s intentions – to create a console that not only performs excellently but also looks and feels the part. When observed from afar, the Series X might seem like a simple black box. However, a closer look reveals a wealth of details that demonstrate meticulous attention to design and quality.
The console takes on a form factor that is unlike its predecessors, mimicking a compact PC tower rather than a traditional flat-laying console. This vertical stance gives it a dominating presence in any room setup, while its minimalist aesthetics allow it to seamlessly blend in with various decor styles. And for those who prefer a more traditional approach, the Series X also allows for horizontal orientation, showing off its versatility.
The exterior shell of the console is robust and solid to touch, constructed from a sturdy matte black material that is highly resistant to fingerprints and smudges. This ensures the console maintains its sleek appearance, even after prolonged use. The console’s dimensions, 5.94 x 11.85 x 5.94 inches, and weight, 13.1 pounds, lend it an undeniable presence without it feeling overly bulky or cumbersome.
On the top of the console (when standing vertically), you will find the ventilation grid, a vital feature given the powerful components housed within. The grid design is not only practical but also visually striking. When turned on, a subtle green accent becomes visible from certain angles, adding an elegant hint of color to the otherwise monochrome exterior.
A standout feature is the disc slot, located vertically when the console stands tall, or horizontally when laying flat. The console also sports a singular USB port on the front, accompanied by a pairing button and a physical power button – a detail that tactile button enthusiasts will surely appreciate.
Flip the console around, and you’ll discover a variety of ports, including an HDMI 2.1 output, two more USB ports, an Ethernet port, a power input, and a slot for storage expansion, all arranged neatly and easy to access.
In summary, the design and build quality of the Xbox Series X embody a sense of premium craftsmanship and attention to detail. Microsoft has successfully managed to merge form and function, creating a console that not only looks fantastic and feels solidly built, but also caters to the practical needs of modern gamers. The Series X is a testament to the fact that powerful performance and elegant design can indeed go hand in hand.
4 Performance and Gaming Experience
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
The performance and gaming experience offered by the Xbox Series X is nothing short of spectacular. This console is not just about enhanced visuals or faster loading times; it’s about creating a comprehensive and immersive gaming experience that draws players in and keeps them engaged.
The heart of the Xbox Series X, its custom Zen 2 CPU and custom RDNA 2 GPU, provides a tremendous boost in processing power, enabling high-performance gameplay at up to 120 frames per second. This results in incredibly smooth, ultra-realistic gaming experiences that keep you on the edge of your seat. With support for true 4K resolution, games look crisp and incredibly detailed, making every gaming session a visual treat.
But the impressive specifications don’t end there. The console also features a 1TB custom NVME SSD, which provides unprecedentedly quick load times. Gone are the days of long loading screens that break the immersion. With the Series X, games load almost instantaneously, keeping you engrossed in the action without unnecessary interruptions.
One standout feature is the Quick Resume. This function allows you to switch between multiple games seamlessly without having to close or reload them. This is a game-changer in the literal sense, making it possible to jump from a high-octane racing game to a stealthy assassination mission in mere moments.
The Xbox Velocity Architecture is the unsung hero behind these impressive performance features. It’s a revolutionary combination of hardware and software that drastically reduces load times, enhances visuals, and ensures consistent performance, enabling you to make the most of every gaming minute.
However, the console isn’t just about raw power; it’s also about delivering an enjoyable and immersive gaming experience. The refined controller, the tactile feedback, and the improved ergonomics all play a role in making your interactions with the gaming world feel more real than ever before.
Also worth mentioning is the quiet operation of the Series X. Despite its powerful internals, the console remains surprisingly silent even during graphically intensive gaming sessions. The thermal management system is top-notch, ensuring that the console stays cool without disturbing your gaming experience with loud fan noises.
In summary, the Xbox Series X offers a gaming experience that marries power and performance with convenience and immersion. Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for quick gaming sessions or a dedicated player who enjoys long, intense gaming marathons, the Series X has got you covered. It’s not just about playing games; it’s about experiencing them in a whole new light.
5 The Hardware
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
The Xbox Series X is an imposing beast, not just in terms of its size and shape, but more importantly, in terms of its internal hardware. The components that Microsoft has assembled for this console are top-of-the-line, offering gamers a device that is not only the fastest and most powerful Xbox to date, but also a contender for one of the most potent gaming consoles available.
Central to the Xbox Series X’s power is its custom 8-core AMD Zen 2 CPU and custom RDNA 2 GPU. These components are designed to work together in harmony, providing 12 teraflops of raw graphic processing power, which is capable of supporting true 4K gaming and up to 120 frames per second.
This power is combined with a massive 16GB of GDDR6 RAM, which gives games ample memory to run smoothly and reduce any potential for lag. This high bandwidth, coupled with the console’s powerful CPU and GPU, allows for incredible detail and unprecedented levels of realism in games.
But the real game-changer in terms of hardware is the custom 1TB NVME SSD. This solid-state drive is a significant step up from the traditional hard drives used in previous consoles. The result is lightning-fast load times and seamless transitions within games. No longer will gamers need to wait for environments to load or textures to render; with the Xbox Series X, everything happens almost instantaneously.
The Series X also comes with a built-in 4K Blu-ray player, allowing you to watch movies in stunning high definition. The console supports Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, and Dolby TrueHD with Atmos, promising an impressive audio-visual experience whether you’re playing games or watching films.
The Series X’s connectivity is also worth mentioning. It comes equipped with three USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, an Ethernet port, and an HDMI 2.1 port. The console also features wireless connectivity with dual-band 802.11ac, ensuring you’re always connected.
In conclusion, the hardware of the Xbox Series X is designed to deliver a next-gen gaming experience. The console’s powerful CPU, GPU, ample RAM, ultra-fast SSD, and high-quality audio support all work together to provide a gaming experience that is as immersive as it is impressive. Whether it’s the detailed visuals, the fluid gameplay, or the quick loading times, the Xbox Series X’s hardware has set a new standard for console gaming.
6 Sound and Audio Quality
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
The Xbox Series X delivers an immersive audio experience that elevates your gaming sessions to an all-new level of realism. Sound and audio quality are often overlooked aspects of gaming, but they play a vital role in creating an immersive and engaging environment, and the Xbox Series X does not disappoint in this regard.
At the heart of the Series X’s audio prowess is its support for various high-quality audio formats. This includes Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, and Dolby TrueHD with Atmos. These formats ensure that the audio output is clear, crisp, and accurately positioned, creating a 3D soundscape that puts you right in the middle of the action.
Dolby Atmos, in particular, is a standout feature. This technology adds height to the sound mix, meaning sounds aren’t just coming from in front or behind you, but also above and below. This results in an incredibly immersive audio experience where you can hear raindrops falling on rooftops or aircraft flying overhead with stunning realism.
Another significant aspect of the Series X’s audio is its custom hardware-accelerated audio. This is a significant step up from previous generations and ensures that the console can handle complex audio processing tasks without any performance hits. It ensures that every sound, from the quietest whisper to the loudest explosion, is reproduced faithfully and delivered with the utmost clarity.
Additionally, the Series X does an excellent job of staying quiet during operation, even under heavy load. This is due to its excellent thermal design and the use of an ultra-quiet fan. This ensures that your gaming or movie-watching experience isn’t interrupted by any unwanted fan noise.
In conclusion, the Xbox Series X provides an outstanding audio experience that truly complements its visual prowess. Whether you’re gaming on a high-end home theater setup or using a pair of headphones, the Series X ensures that every sound detail is delivered with high fidelity. The console’s support for advanced audio formats and its custom audio hardware work in tandem to create an immersive soundscape that brings your games to life in unprecedented ways.
7 Connectivity and Ports
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
In terms of connectivity, the Xbox Series X offers a diverse and comprehensive array of options, ensuring you are well-equipped for any scenario, whether you’re gaming, streaming, or transferring data.
The console’s rear panel houses a suite of vital ports neatly arranged for easy access. You’ll find an HDMI 2.1 port, which is essential for taking advantage of the console’s 4K gaming capabilities. HDMI 2.1 supports higher bandwidths, enabling smoother 4K gaming experiences at up to 120 FPS, as well as advanced features such as Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR).
Additionally, the console features three USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, with one conveniently located at the front for easy access. These high-speed ports can be used for a variety of purposes, including connecting external storage devices, charging controllers, or connecting other peripherals like gaming keyboards and headsets.
For internet connectivity, the Series X offers a dual option. There’s a Gigabit Ethernet port for those who prefer a stable, wired connection for gaming or streaming. For wireless users, the console supports dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connectivity.
Furthermore, the Xbox Series X boasts an expansion slot for a 1TB expansion card that matches the internal storage exactly, allowing gamers to extend their game library without sacrificing performance.
Finally, for those still using physical media, the front of the console houses a 4K Blu-ray disc drive. This not only allows for playing disc-based games but also watching 4K UHD Blu-ray movies, adding another layer of versatility to this powerful console.
In summary, the Xbox Series X has left no stone unturned when it comes to connectivity. Whether you’re looking to hook up your console to the latest 4K TV, connect multiple peripherals, or ensure a stable and fast internet connection for online gaming, the Series X has you covered with its versatile array of ports and connectivity options.
8 Backward Compatibility and Game Library
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
One of the key aspects that sets the Xbox Series X apart from other consoles is its commitment to backward compatibility. This feature ensures that the console is not just a window to the future of gaming, but also a portal to the past, offering an extensive game library that spans four generations of Xbox.
The Xbox Series X’s backward compatibility means that you can play thousands of games from the original Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One on the new console. This support extends not just to digital games, but also to physical discs. Insert a disc from any of these past consoles, and the Series X will be able to play it.
Moreover, many of these older games aren’t just playable—they’ve been optimized for the new hardware. This means improved frame rates, faster load times, and better resolution. Playing older games on the Series X can often feel like experiencing them for the first time, thanks to these enhancements.
In addition to backward compatibility, the Xbox Series X’s game library is further bolstered by the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. This subscription service, sold separately, gives you access to an ever-expanding library of over 100 high-quality games, including day-one releases from Xbox Game Studios. It’s a Netflix-style service that has become a significant selling point for the console, allowing you to play a wide array of games for a monthly fee.
From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate ensures you’ll never run out of games to play. Furthermore, it also includes online multiplayer, allowing you to team up or compete with friends and players around the world.
To sum up, the Xbox Series X’s commitment to backward compatibility, coupled with the extensive library offered by Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, ensures that you’ll always have a vast range of games to choose from. Whether you’re a long-time Xbox fan looking to revisit old favorites or a new player wanting to explore a wide array of gaming experiences, the Series X has you covered. The breadth and depth of its game library truly embody the console’s promise of being “Power Your Dreams.”
9 The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is an integral part of the Xbox Series X experience, providing a remarkable value proposition that truly sets the console apart. This subscription service can best be described as a “Netflix for video games”, offering a vast library of high-quality games that can be downloaded and played on your console for a monthly fee.
With the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you gain access to an ever-expanding library of over 100 games. This includes all new Xbox Game Studios titles on the day of their release, as well as a diverse selection of games from third-party developers. The variety is impressive, featuring everything from blockbuster AAA titles to lesser-known indie games, ensuring that there’s something for every type of gamer.
One of the best aspects of the Game Pass Ultimate is its commitment to introducing new games regularly. This ensures that the library remains fresh and exciting, with new adventures and experiences waiting to be discovered every month.
But the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is more than just a games library; it also includes Xbox Live Gold, which provides online multiplayer access. This allows you to compete with or against friends and players from around the world, adding a social dimension to your gaming experience. In addition to multiplayer access, Xbox Live Gold also offers exclusive discounts and free games every month, further enhancing the value of the service.
What’s more, the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also offers access to EA Play, adding a wide selection of EA’s best-loved titles to your gaming library at no additional cost. From popular sports titles like FIFA and Madden to beloved franchises like Battlefield and Mass Effect, the inclusion of EA Play makes the Game Pass Ultimate even more of a bargain.
In short, the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate represents an incredible value, providing a treasure trove of gaming experiences for a monthly subscription fee. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer looking for the next big thing or a casual player seeking a variety of gaming experiences, the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate has you covered. Its sheer value and versatility make it an essential part of the Xbox Series X experience.
10 “Redefining The Gaming Landscape” – A Conclusion
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
As we arrive at the end of this detailed review, it becomes evident that the Xbox Series X is more than just a next-generation console. It’s a comprehensive entertainment system that redefines the gaming landscape, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in console gaming. From its sleek design and robust hardware to its expansive game library and innovative services, the Xbox Series X is a testament to Microsoft’s vision for the future of gaming.
The design and build quality of the Series X sets the tone for its premium offering. Its minimalist, monolithic design is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, housing a powerhouse of gaming technology while maintaining a surprisingly quiet operation.
At the heart of the Xbox Series X is its impressive hardware. With a custom 8-core AMD Zen 2 CPU, a powerful RDNA 2 GPU, and a fast 1TB NVME SSD, the console delivers on its promise of speed and performance. The power to support true 4K gaming at up to 120 FPS, coupled with the lightning-fast load times enabled by the Xbox Velocity Architecture, ensures a gaming experience that is as immersive as it is smooth.
Furthermore, the console’s commitment to high-quality audio, featuring support for Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, and Dolby TrueHD with Atmos, ensures that every game is complemented by a rich, immersive soundscape.
Microsoft’s commitment to backward compatibility and the inclusion of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers an expansive game library, ensuring that the Series X caters to a wide array of gaming preferences. The ability to play thousands of games from the four generations of Xbox, coupled with a rotating library of over 100 games available through the Game Pass, ensures that the console offers an unprecedented breadth of gaming experiences.
In conclusion, the Xbox Series X isn’t just a piece of hardware—it’s an embodiment of a new era of gaming. It successfully blends power, performance, and versatility, offering a gaming experience that is truly next-gen. With its innovative features and services, the Xbox Series X doesn’t just play games—it powers your dreams, offering you the chance to explore rich, immersive new worlds from the comfort of your living room.
11 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
What is the storage capacity of the Xbox Series X, and can it be expanded? The Xbox Series X comes with a custom 1TB NVME SSD. If you need more storage, there is a dedicated expansion slot for an additional 1TB Expansion Card, available separately.
Can I play my old Xbox games on the Xbox Series X? Yes, the Xbox Series X is backward compatible and supports games from all previous Xbox generations, including the original Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.
Does the Xbox Series X support 4K gaming? Yes, the Xbox Series X supports 4K gaming and can even run some games at up to 120 frames per second.
Can the Xbox Series X stand vertically and horizontally? Yes, the Xbox Series X has been designed to be positioned either vertically or horizontally, allowing it to fit seamlessly into your home entertainment setup.
What is Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and is it included with the Xbox Series X? Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is a subscription service that offers access to a library of over 100 games, including all new Xbox Game Studios titles on their release day. It also includes Xbox Live Gold for online multiplayer and additional perks like EA Play. It’s not included with the Xbox Series X and is available separately.
Does the Xbox Series X come with a controller? Yes, the Xbox Series X comes with one new Xbox Wireless Controller. The new controller has a slightly smaller form factor for a more comfortable grip and includes a new Share button for screenshots and video clips.
Can I use my existing Xbox One accessories with the Xbox Series X? Yes, the Xbox Series X supports most Xbox One accessories, including controllers and headsets.
What are the key differences between the Xbox Series X and the Xbox Series S? The Xbox Series X is the more powerful of the two consoles, with a stronger GPU, more RAM, and larger internal storage. It also has a 4K UHD Blu-ray drive, unlike the Series S, which is digital only. The Series S, however, is smaller and more affordable.
Is a stable internet connection required for Xbox Series X? While an internet connection is not always required, some features and games, particularly those on Xbox Game Pass or multiplayer titles, will need a stable connection. The Series X includes a Gigabit Ethernet port and supports 802.11ac dual-band Wi-Fi for connectivity.
What is the power consumption of the Xbox Series X? Microsoft has not officially disclosed the exact power consumption of the Xbox Series X. However, they have stated that the Series X will use around 20% less power when idle compared to the Xbox One X. The console also includes an energy-saving mode to reduce power consumption when not in use.
The Review
Microsoft Xbox Series X
The Xbox Series X, Microsoft's latest console, is a powerful and versatile gaming system that offers true 4K gaming, impressive speed, and a vast library of games. With a sleek design, top-notch performance, and innovative features like backward compatibility and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, it provides an immersive and dynamic gaming experience, setting a new standard in the gaming industry.
PROS
- Powerful Performance: With a custom Zen 2 CPU, RDNA 2 GPU, and a 1TB NVME SSD, the Xbox Series X is equipped to offer top-tier performance and speed.
- True 4K Gaming: The console supports true 4K gaming and can even reach up to 120 frames per second, offering an immersive gaming experience.
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: This subscription service provides access to over 100 games, adding a massive value proposition for gamers.
- Backward Compatibility: The Xbox Series X supports games from all previous Xbox generations, vastly increasing the available game library.
- Solid Build and Design: The Series X has a sleek, minimalist design, and it is compact for the power it holds.
- Quick Resume Feature: This feature allows gamers to switch between multiple games seamlessly, enhancing the user experience.
CONS
- Storage Space: With increasingly larger game file sizes, the 1TB internal storage may fill up quickly, necessitating additional storage purchases.
- Physical Size: Despite its sleek design, the console's size might not fit seamlessly into every entertainment center setup.
- Game Pass Dependence: While the Game Pass offers an extensive library, some gamers may not like the dependency on a subscription service for accessing many games.
- Limited Exclusives at Launch: At launch, the Xbox Series X had fewer exclusive games compared to its main competitor.
- Price: As a premium console, the Xbox Series X is one of the more expensive options on the market.
Microsoft Xbox Series X DEALS
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