To set up an Xbox Series X or Series S, connect it to power and an HDMI-compatible TV or monitor, turn it on, then follow the on-screen prompts to connect to broadband, sign in with a Microsoft account, and complete the initial update. You can use the Xbox app as a setup guide, but Xbox’s setup instructions do not make a phone or the app a requirement.
What you need before you start
Xbox identifies four basic setup needs: the console, a Microsoft account, broadband internet, and an HDMI-capable TV or monitor. Set the console on a stable surface with its vents unobstructed; Xbox’s setup video includes a step for preparing the space but does not specify a clearance distance.
- Xbox Series X or Series S console and its power cord
- HDMI-capable TV or monitor
- Broadband internet connection
- Microsoft account details
- Xbox Wireless Controller
The 2020 Xbox setup video describes the Series X package as including a power cord, controller, and Ultra High Speed HDMI cable; its Series S package includes a power cord, controller, and High Speed HDMI cable. Bundles can vary by region and model revision, so check the contents of your specific retail package. Xbox Support’s setup video shows the preparation and connection steps.
How to set up an Xbox Series X or Series S for the first time
- Prepare the console and display. Place the Xbox where its vents are not blocked and switch on the TV or monitor. Select an available HDMI input if your display does not detect the console automatically.
- Connect the power and HDMI cables. Plug the power cord into the console and a wall outlet, then connect the included HDMI cable between the Xbox and display. The 2020 setup video identifies an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable for Series X and a High Speed HDMI cable for Series S.
- Turn on the console. Use the console’s power button to start it. Xbox Wire says to plug the console into an HDMI-compatible TV and turn it on to start the updating process. Xbox Wire’s getting-started article was published November 15, 2024.
- Connect the controller. Follow the console’s prompts to connect or pair the Xbox Wireless Controller. The sequence shown by Xbox Support includes controller connection; use the instructions displayed on your console if they differ from the video.
- Connect to broadband and sign in. Follow the TV screen prompts to join your internet connection and sign in with a Microsoft account, or create one if needed. Xbox lists both broadband and a Microsoft account among its basic setup needs. Xbox’s console setup information outlines those requirements.
- Complete the initial update. Let the console finish downloading and installing its update before adding accessories. Xbox Wire recommends completing the update before connecting extras such as an external hard drive or charging station. The update may take time depending on your internet connection.
- Finish the prompts and reach the home screen. Continue through the on-screen setup until the console reaches its home screen. Exact screen labels can change, so follow the wording shown on your console rather than relying on a fixed menu path.
Should you use the Xbox app or the console prompts?
| Setup route | What it offers | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Xbox app | Xbox Support’s video walks through using the app to complete console setup. | A compatible phone with the app; Xbox does not establish the app as mandatory. |
| Console prompts | Complete setup by following the instructions displayed on the TV or monitor. | The console, display, broadband, and Microsoft account. |
Choose the app if you prefer phone-guided setup; otherwise, proceed with the instructions on the console. Both routes lead through the initial setup and update process.
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#1 Best Overall
- BEST VALUE IN GAMING — Experience next-gen speed and performance in the smallest XBOX ever. The XBOX Series S delivers powerful all-digital gameplay in a sleek, compact design.
- UP TO 120 FPS GAMEPLAY — Enjoy smooth, responsive gaming with frame rates up to 120 FPS, powered by XBOX Velocity Architecture, a custom NVMe SSD, and DirectX Raytracing for a heightened level of realism.
- 512GB CUSTOM SSD AND XBOX VELOCITY ARCHITECTURE — Reduce load times dramatically with the custom 512GB NVMe SSD and XBOX Velocity Architecture, enabling lightning-fast performance and seamless world streaming.
- QUICK RESUME — Seamlessly switch between multiple games and resume exactly where you left off. No more waiting through title screens and loading bars.
- FOUR GENERATIONS OF DIGITAL GAMES — Play thousands of digital games from XBOX Series X|S, XBOX One, XBOX 360, and Original XBOX with backward compatibility. Many titles are enhanced for better visuals and performance. Smart Delivery ensures you always get the best version for your console.
Do you need extra storage or other accessories?
No extra storage is needed to complete initial setup. If you later run short of space, Xbox lists three options: uninstall games you are not playing, connect an external hard drive, or add an Xbox Series X|S Storage Expansion Card. The card is an optional storage choice, not a prerequisite for using the console. Microsoft’s U.S. product listing for the Series S 1 TB (White) recommends a 1 TB expansion card as a best-experience option; that recommendation is specific to the listing and does not make a card necessary for setup. Microsoft Store’s Series S 1 TB listing describes the product and its storage recommendation.
A rechargeable battery kit for the controller is also optional. The Xbox getting-started page displays an Xbox Rechargeable Battery + USB-C Cable, but standard console setup does not require it.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- PLAY LIKE A PRO — The XBOX Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 features over 30 ways to play like a pro. Designed in collaboration with pro-level players, it puts exceptional performance, customization, and durability where it matters most.
- ADJUSTABLE-TENSION THUMBSTICKS — Fine-tune your aim with thumbsticks that let you adjust resistance for improved accuracy, consistency, and control in every match.
- SHORTER HAIR TRIGGER LOCKS — Fire faster and react quicker with three-step hair trigger locks that reduce pull distance for rapid input in competitive gameplay.
- INTERCHANGEABLE COMPONENTS — Swap thumbstick toppers, D-pads, and paddles to tailor your controller to your preferred gaming style. Includes 6 thumbsticks, 4 paddles, 2 D-pads, carrying case, and charging dock.
- SAVE AND SWITCH PROFILES — Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly with the dedicated Profile button. Even pick which color the XBOX button lights up as.
Rank #4
- 【Necessary for Xbox Series X】---- This product integrates many functions, such as top cooling fan, dust-proof, light strip, USB interface for data transmission and USB port for charging. It helps to prevent for Xbox Series X console from over-heating and dust to extend the life of your console. (NOTE:When the console is working, the dust cover of the fan can be removed to speed up the heat dissipation effect. Alige the two holes under the dust cover first, then cover the dust cover.)
- 【Efficient Fan System】---- A high-speed large fan are built in the colorful dust-proof cooling fan，which can accelerate the hot air exhausted from the top of the console and reduce the temperature for Xbox series X console. The cooling fan stand with 3 gears and is a touch switch. The low gear is orange, the second gear is blue, and the high gear is green.The heat dissipation effect is more obvious, and the noise is very low, which you can hardly feel.
- 【Colorful Light Strip】---- The cooling bracket for Xbox seris X supports colorful lights and can change the light color with an independent touch switch. The light strip contains 6 monochromes and 1 mixed color. You can use the independent touch switch to change your favorite colors and own a more atmosphere in the process of the game. (NOTE: pressing the light switch for the 7th time will turn light off.)
- 【3.0 USB & USB Charge Port】---- There are 2 USB interfaces in total, one blue 3.0 USB interface supports 3.0 data transmission, another white 2.0 sub interfaces ONLY can charge more products, such as controller, mobile phones, small desk lamps, etc.It is convenient to provide USB interface in the process of your game.
- 【Dust Cover Filter】---- The cooling top bracket for Xbox seris X supports top dust proof,At the same time, the product contains 2 sets * dust cover compatible with Xbox Series X, 1 set * silicone dust plugs,which have accurate size and easy to install and replace without additional tools. Prevent dust from entering the USB and HDMI ports for Xbox Series X, extend the life of your console.
Rank #3
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Rank #2
- What's in the box: Xbox Series S 512GB console, 1 Wireless Controller, High Speed HDMI cable.
- CPU: 8X Cores @ 3.6 GHz (3.4 GHz w/SMT) Custom Zen 2 CPU; GPU: 4 TFLOPS, 20 CUs @1.565 GHz Custom RDNA 2 GPU; SOC Die Size: 197.05 mm2.
- Memory: 10GB GDDR6 128 bit-wide bus; Memory Bandwidth: 8GB @ 224 GB/s, 2GB @ 56 GB/s.; Internal Storage: 512GB Custom NVME SSD
- Gaming Resolution: 1440p; Performance Target: Up to 120 FPS; HDMI Features: Auto Low Latency Mode, HDMI Variable Refresh Rate, AMD FreeSync.
If setup does not proceed as expected
- If the TV shows no picture, check that the HDMI cable is firmly connected at both ends and that the display is set to the HDMI input you used.
- If the console has not finished its update, let the update complete before attaching storage or other peripherals.
- If a prompt differs from the instructions you expected, follow the wording on the console; Xbox’s current accessible setup materials do not establish fixed menu labels for every screen.
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