October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsSlow PC?RecommendedPC slow today? Run a repair scan before it gets worseResolve common Windows issues and optimize system performance.Scan NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
VGSources
backward compatibility

Xbox Series X vs Xbox One X: What’s the Difference?

Xbox Series X brings newer CPU and GPU hardware plus NVMe SSD storage. Here’s how it differs from Xbox One X, including game compatibility and disc models.

By VGSources Team 4 min read

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Xbox Series X is a newer console generation, not just a faster Xbox One X. It has a newer CPU and GPU architecture and much faster NVMe SSD storage; the One X uses a hard drive. Both support 4K-era gaming, but Series X can target higher frame rates in supported games, and not every Series X model has a disc drive. Whether it is a worthwhile upgrade depends on the games and media you use, your display, and whether you want the benefits of newer hardware.

Xbox Series X vs Xbox One X at a glance

Specification Xbox One X Xbox Series X
CPU Custom 8-core CPU at 2.3 GHz Custom 8-core Zen 2 CPU at 3.8 GHz, or 3.6 GHz with SMT
GPU Custom Polaris GPU, 6.0 TFLOPS Custom RDNA 2 GPU, 12 TFLOPS
Memory 12GB GDDR5 16GB GDDR6
Internal storage 1TB HDD 1TB or 2TB custom NVMe SSD, depending on model
Video capability listed 2160p at 60Hz True 4K; performance target up to 120 FPS
Disc drive 4K UHD Blu-ray 4K UHD Blu-ray on disc-equipped models; a digital model is also offered

The One X figures come from Microsoft’s Xbox One family specification sheet; Series X figures and model options are listed on Microsoft’s Xbox Series X product page. The specs are manufacturer claims, not a direct measure of how every game performs.

What the hardware differences mean in games

CPU and GPU

Series X moves from the One X’s custom 8-core 2.3 GHz CPU and Polaris GPU to a Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU. Microsoft lists twice the GPU compute figure—12 TFLOPS versus 6.0 TFLOPS—and higher CPU clock figures for Series X. Those numbers describe hardware capability; they do not mean every game will render at twice the frame rate or resolution. Game design, settings, and title-specific support determine the result.

Memory and storage

Series X has 16GB of GDDR6 memory, compared with the One X’s 12GB of GDDR5. Not all console memory is necessarily available to a game, so capacity alone does not predict its performance.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

The more immediately noticeable difference for many players is storage: the One X has a 1TB hard drive, while Series X models listed by Microsoft use a 1TB or 2TB custom NVMe SSD. SSD storage can reduce loading time in games designed to use it, but loading improvements vary by title and are not a guarantee of a particular time.

For more space on Series X, Microsoft says its separately sold Xbox Series X|S Storage Expansion Card uses the dedicated port and matches internal storage performance. A standard USB external drive is another option for storage, but Microsoft identifies the expansion card as the option that replicates the internal SSD’s performance.

Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

4K and 120 FPS: capability, not a promise for every game

Microsoft lists the One X’s video output as 2160p at 60Hz. For Series X, it advertises true 4K and a performance target of up to 120 FPS. These are different kinds of specifications: 2160p at 60Hz describes the One X output listed on the spec sheet, while 120 FPS is a Series X capability target. Neither figure means every game runs at that setting.

A Series X game must support the relevant resolution or frame-rate mode, and your television or monitor must support the output you want. Check the individual game’s supported modes and your display’s capabilities before buying a console for 4K or high-refresh-rate play.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Can you play Xbox One X games on Series X?

Series X supports thousands of games across four Xbox generations, including supported Xbox One titles and select Xbox 360 and original Xbox games. Compatibility is not universal: confirm that a particular older title is supported. Microsoft’s backward-compatibility guidance explains how to access compatible games.

  • Owned digital games: Supported digital titles in the Back Compat catalog appear in the Ready to Install section on Series X.
  • Disc games: For a supported disc game, use a Series X model with a disc drive. The disc is needed to download the game and must remain in the drive to play it.

Compatibility does not by itself promise a visual upgrade or a particular performance improvement for each title. Check the game’s own details for any Series X-specific enhancements.

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Disc drive and accessory differences

The One X specification sheet lists a 4K UHD Blu-ray drive. Series X is available in disc-equipped and digital variants; Microsoft lists a 4K UHD Blu-ray drive for disc models. If you own physical Xbox games or UHD Blu-rays, check the exact Series X model before buying: a digital model cannot use those discs.

Microsoft says most Xbox One controllers and gaming accessories work with Series X|S. “Most” does not mean every peripheral, especially third-party or unusual devices, so verify the exact accessory with its maker or product listing before relying on it.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Should you upgrade from Xbox One X?

Series X is the stronger fit if you want newer hardware, SSD-based storage, or access to supported games and modes that take advantage of higher frame rates. It is also a practical move if the supported Xbox One games you own are part of a library you want to keep playing on a current-generation console.

Keeping the One X can make sense if the games and media you use already meet your needs and you do not value the newer console’s storage or supported performance options enough to switch. For a physical-game collection, include the Series X model’s disc drive in the decision; for high-refresh-rate play, check both the games you care about and your screen. There is no single upgrade answer for every One X owner.

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from Patch Notes

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.