For a new Xbox Series X or Series S, the useful accessories depend on what you want to do: add a second player, use private audio and chat, or make room for more games. Before buying, check what came in the box and whether an Xbox One controller or other accessory you already own will work.
What comes with a new Xbox, and what might you already own?
Microsoft says an Xbox Series X package includes one controller, an HDMI cable, and a power cord. If you need a second player, you may want another controller; if you are replacing the included one, you may not need an extra. Microsoft also says most Xbox One controllers and gaming accessories are compatible with Series X|S, so check your existing gear before buying duplicates. Microsoft’s Xbox Series X compatibility and storage guidance covers the console’s included items and compatibility.
Which controller should you get?
For a second player or a straightforward replacement
The standard Xbox Wireless Controller is the practical starting point if you need another controller or a replacement. Xbox lists it in its accessories catalog, but the available information does not establish a comparative performance or value ranking. Check the bundle contents first, and consider whether a compatible Xbox One controller you already have can fill the role. Xbox’s accessories catalog lists its controller options.
When to consider a premium controller
Xbox also lists the Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. Consider it when you specifically want a premium-feature option rather than assuming it is the right choice for everyone. The catalog listing alone does not establish that it is better for every player or quantify how it compares in performance.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →#1 Best Overall
- IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE GAME — Game loud and clear with the XBOX Wireless Headset, featuring enhanced auto-mute and voice isolation for crystal-clear chat, intuitive design, plus direct pairing to your console, PC, or phone.
- BEST-IN-CLASS SPATIAL AUDIO — Surround yourself with spatial audio technologies including Dolby Atmos (included at no extra cost), Windows Sonic, and DTS Headphone:X. Revealing depth, clarity, and details like never before.
- COMFORTABLE AND INTUITIVE DESIGN — Experience the flexible, lightweight design with an adjustable headband and plush earcups for extended play sessions. Rotate the earcup dials for a quick, intuitive way to adjust volume and game/chat balance.
- CRYSTAL-CLEAR CHAT — Be heard clearly with enhanced auto-mute and voice isolation powered by dual boom mics with illuminated LED indicator. Background noise is reduced so your voice comes through loud and clear.
- UP TO 20 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Enjoy up to 20 hours of battery life from the internal rechargeable battery so you can focus on gaming without frequent recharges.
How should you choose a headset?
Xbox lists both the wireless Xbox Headset and the wired Xbox Stereo Headset, as well as compatible headsets from other manufacturers. Start with whether you prefer a wireless or wired setup, then consider whether you need a microphone for chat, the devices you want to use it with, comfort, and your budget. The catalog identifies product choices, not a verified ranking for sound quality or comfort.
For a simple wired option, look at the Xbox Stereo Headset in the accessories catalog; for a wireless option, check the Xbox Headset listed there. Confirm the specific model’s compatibility and current availability before purchasing, particularly if you want to use it with devices beyond your console. Xbox’s catalog also lists third-party products, but the listing itself is not a comparative listening test. The US accessories catalog with third-party products shows additional options.
Rank #2
- Low-Latency 2.4GHz Wireless plus Bluetooth 5.2 Connectivity
- Best-in-Class Battery Life of up to 40 Hours Plus Quick Charge
- QuickSwitch Button for Seamless Wireless to Bluetooth switching
- Ultra-Lightweight, Floating Headband and Memory Foam Cushions
- Amplified 40mm Drivers for Powerful Spatial Audio
Expansion card or USB hard drive: what is the difference?
If you want added storage at internal-SSD performance, Xbox and Seagate describe the Xbox Series X|S Storage Expansion Card as the route for that purpose. The Seagate product page lists 1 TB, 2 TB, and 4 TB capacities and says the card is compatible with Xbox Series X and Series S. It states that the card maintains the same peak speed and performance as the console’s internal SSD. Those are manufacturer claims, not an independent performance test. See the Xbox/Seagate Storage Expansion Card specifications and capacity options.
Xbox also says Series X supports USB 3.1 external HDD storage. That is a separate storage option; the cited guidance does not describe an external HDD as matching the console’s internal SSD performance. Choose an expansion card if matching internal-SSD performance is your priority. Consider a USB 3.1 HDD as a distinct option if you want external storage and do not need that stated performance match. The cited product and console pages do not establish more detailed game-storage or transfer behavior, so check current Xbox guidance for the specific games and use case you have in mind.
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Memory Foam Cushions with Glasses-Friendly Technology
- Powerful, 50mm Nanoclear Drivers for Vibrant Spatial Audio
- Mappable Wheel and Mode Button for Customizable Functions
- QuickSwitch Button for Seamless Wireless to Bluetooth switching
- Flip-to-Mute Mic with A.I.-Based Noise Reduction
Rank #4
- Made for Wireless Xbox Gaming: Captain 560 xbox headset wireless is designed for Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One using the included 2.4GHz dongle. Whether you're teaming up with friends in call of duty, battling through halo infinite, racing in forza horizon, or exploring epic open-world adventures, enjoy stable 20ms ultra-low-latency wireless audio for smooth gameplay, Xbox Party Chat, and immersive entertainment at home or in your dorm
- Clear Team Chat & Flip-to-Mute Mic: This xbox gaming headset features a built-in noise-reducing microphone that helps capture your voice clearly while minimizing background noise. Whether you're coordinating in xbox party chat, making quick callouts in competitive FPS games, or chatting with friends during co-op adventures, your teammates can hear you clearly. Simply flip the microphone up to mute instantly in 2.4GHz wireless mode when you need to answer someone nearby, take a quick break, or step away from the game
- Up to 70 Hours of Battery: Built for long gaming sessions, weekend gaming marathons, late-night matches, and everyday entertainment, these xbox gaming headphones keep you focused with fewer charging interruptions. Enjoy up to 45 hours with RGB lighting on or over 70 hours with lighting off at 50% volume. A full recharge takes about 3 hours, and play-while-charging keeps your game going when the battery runs low
- Stable Wireless for Xbox & Triple-Mode Connectivity: Captain 560 is a wireless gaming headset for xbox with a dual-lock 2.4GHz USB dongle designed for official xbox controllers. Insert the dongle fully before play to help keep the controller connection secure during intense gameplay. Use 2.4GHz wireless for Xbox, PS5, compatible consoles, and PC gaming, switch to Bluetooth 6.0 for mobile devices, music, and everyday listening, or plug in with 3.5mm wired mode when needed
- Immersive Audio, Easy Controls & Long-Lasting Comfort: Powerful 50mm dynamic drivers deliver clear game audio, helping you hear enemy footsteps in FPS games, realistic engine sounds in racing games, and subtle details in open-world or story-driven adventures. On-ear buttons and a quick-switch slider let you adjust volume, lighting, or modes without pausing your game. Breathable fabric memory-foam ear cushions and a foldable design make this wireless gaming headset comfortable for long sessions, weekend gaming nights, college dorms, and travel
Rank #3
- 【Upgraded Wireless Connected to The Official xbox Controller】The Captain 200 for xbox headset wireless offers Dual-Lock Dongle for xbox Wireless connectivity for official xbox controllers (compatible with xbox Series X/S and xbox One). It is also compatible with PC, PS5/4, Mac, and Nintendo Switch (mic not supported on Switch). Enjoy low-latency gameplay (≤20ms) and clear sound with wide compatibility for popular games.
- 【Ergonomic Rotatable Earmuffs】The Captain 200 xbox headset wireless features rotatable ear cups that rest comfortably around your neck, easing pressure during long sessions. Its ergonomic design and adjustable headband offer a perfect fit, reducing fatigue and ensuring you stay comfortable and focused—making it your go-to choice for immersive gaming.
- 【Excellent Sound Quality】The Captain 200 wireless xbox headset features a 50MM audio dynamic driver with PET biological diaphragm technology, delivering enhanced sound quality with a wide frequency response range (20Hz-20kHz). It captures every footstep and explosion with precision and ensures ultra-low latency (≤20ms) for a seamless and immersive gaming experience.
- 【ENC Microphone】The Captain 200 xbox headset wireless features a detachable, flexible, and omnidirectional microphone with high-end ENC noise cancellation. This mic adjusts to your preferred angle, ensuring clear voice transmission for enhanced teamwork.
- 【Long Battery Life】The Captain 200 xbox headset wireless fully charges in just 2.5 hours and offers up to 45+ hours of gameplay, ensuring you stay in the action from day to night. Say goodbye to frequent charging and enjoy uninterrupted gaming or calls. With intuitive function buttons for volume, lights, and microphone, you can easily take control of your gaming experience with just a glance.
Quick picks by priority
- More than one player: Consider a second standard Xbox Wireless Controller after checking whether you already have a compatible Xbox One controller.
- Private audio or chat: Choose between a wireless Xbox Headset and wired Xbox Stereo Headset based on setup and microphone needs; confirm compatibility and fit for your use.
- More room at internal-SSD performance: Look at the Xbox Series X|S Storage Expansion Card and its listed 1 TB, 2 TB, and 4 TB capacities.
- External storage without the stated SSD-performance match: Xbox identifies USB 3.1 external HDDs as supported; treat this as a different route from the expansion card.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
