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Xbox Series X Setup FAQ: Cables, Ports, and Accessory Compatibility

Xbox Series X includes an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable and power cord. Learn about its ports, storage options, controller compatibility, and display requirements.
Length3 min Posted Quest giverVGSources Team
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Xbox Series X includes the power cord, controller, and Ultra High Speed HDMI cable you need to get started. It has one HDMI 2.1 port, three USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, and a dedicated storage expansion port. Most Xbox One controllers and gaming accessories also work with Series X|S, but Microsoft does not promise compatibility for every older or third-party device.

What cables come with Xbox Series X?

The console package includes the Xbox Series X console, a controller, an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable, and a power cord. Microsoft notes that standalone products are not included in the bundle. You should not need to buy a separate HDMI cable or power adapter just to connect the console with the items in the package. (Microsoft Xbox Series X specifications)

Connect the console to a display

  1. Connect the included Ultra High Speed HDMI cable to the console’s HDMI port and to a compatible display’s HDMI input.
  2. Connect the included power cord to the console and a power outlet.
  3. Turn on the console and display, then select the display input connected to the Xbox.

Microsoft confirms the included cable and hardware, but does not document a detailed TV setup sequence on the cited product page. Use your display’s own instructions if you need help selecting an input or changing picture settings.

Which ports and wireless connections does Series X have?

Connection What it is for
One HDMI 2.1 port Connecting a display.
Three USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports USB accessories and supported USB external hard drives.
Dedicated storage expansion port Series X|S Storage Expansion Card.
Gigabit Ethernet Wired network connection.
Dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi Wireless network connection.
Xbox Wireless radio Wireless connection for compatible Xbox controllers and accessories.

These are the port and connectivity specifications Microsoft lists for Series X. A USB port does not, by itself, establish that every USB device or accessory will work with the console. (Microsoft Xbox Series X specifications)

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How can I increase my console storage for more games?

There are two supported storage paths in Microsoft’s Series X specifications. Choose the dedicated Storage Expansion Card if matching the internal SSD’s performance is important; choose a USB external HDD as a separate supported option. Microsoft makes the performance-match claim for the expansion card, not for USB external hard drives.

Storage option Connection Performance information from Microsoft
Xbox Series X|S Storage Expansion Card Dedicated expansion port Microsoft says it matches internal SSD performance.
USB external HDD USB port Supported as external storage; Microsoft does not say it matches internal SSD performance.

Check the drive or card’s own compatibility and requirements before buying. (Microsoft Xbox Series X specifications)

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Do Xbox One controllers work on Xbox Series X?

Microsoft says most Xbox One controllers and gaming accessories are compatible with Series X|S. “Most” matters: the statement is not a guarantee that every older or third-party device will work, so check with its manufacturer if you are considering a specific accessory.

The current Xbox Wireless Controller is listed as compatible with Series X. On Xbox consoles, it can connect using Xbox Wireless or its included 9-foot USB-C cable. Microsoft also lists Bluetooth support for Windows 10/11 PCs, tablets, iOS, and Android, subject to device and operating-system compatibility. (Microsoft Xbox Series X specifications; Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller)

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Can Xbox Series X play games at 4K and 120 FPS?

Microsoft specifies 4K at up to 120 FPS only with supported content and a supported display. Having an HDMI 2.1 port does not mean that every television or monitor can show every game at that resolution and frame rate. Check your display’s specifications and settings, as well as whether the content supports the feature. (Microsoft Xbox Series X specifications)

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Do I need to buy a replacement HDMI cable?

Usually not for a standard setup: an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable is included with the console. Consider a replacement if the included cable is missing or damaged, or if you have a specific setup requirement that calls for another cable. Choose an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable for that replacement need; the cited Microsoft specifications do not establish compatibility for every cable or display configuration.

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