Introduction
The Xbox Series X launched in late 2020 as Microsoft’s most powerful console to date. In 2024, the hardware remains top-tier, Game Pass is stronger than ever, and new exclusives are finally arriving. But with PlayStation 5 still dominating the conversation and Nintendo doing its own thing, the big question remains:
Is the Xbox Series X the best console for you—four years in?
Here’s a breakdown of what it does right, where it still lags, and whether it’s worth picking up in 2024.
⸻
Section 1: Core Specs and Features•CPU: 8-core AMD Zen 2 @ 3.8 GHz
•GPU: AMD RDNA 2 with 12 teraflops
•RAM: 16GB GDDR6
•Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD (expandable)
•Resolution: Up to 4K @ 120Hz
•Optical Drive: 4K UHD Blu-ray
•Backwards Compatibility: All Xbox One games + many Xbox 360/OG titles
The Series X is still the most technically capable console on the market, especially when it comes to 4K and performance headroom.
⸻
Section 2: Design and Build
•Form factor: Matte black tower
•Dimensions: Compact but dense (8.4 lbs)
•Noise: Whisper-quiet under load
•Thermals: Excellent airflow—no overheating issues
It’s understated and modern, though not flashy. It fits horizontally or vertically, but it’s chunky compared to the Xbox Series S or PS5 Slim.
⸻
Section 3: Performance and Load Times
Loading and Quick Resume•Games load fast—5–10 seconds in most titles
•Quick Resume allows you to swap between 3–5 suspended games with zero load time
•Performance in cross-gen and new-gen games is smooth and consistent
Resolution and Framerates
•4K/60 is standard for most games
•Some support 120Hz (e.g., Halo Infinite, Fortnite, Forza Horizon 5)
•VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and Auto Low Latency Mode supported
This console is built for performance—and it delivers, especially with optimized titles.
⸻
Section 4: Game Library (2024)
Exclusives (Current Highlights)
•Starfield (massive RPG, mixed reception but technically impressive)
•Hi-Fi Rush (surprise hit, rhythmic action)
•Forza Motorsport (2023) – clean, deep racing sim
•Halo Infinite – multiplayer has legs, campaign is just OK
•Redfall – underwhelmed, even after patches
•Upcoming: Avowed, Fable, Hellblade II, Clockwork Revolution
Backwards Compatibility
•Every Xbox One game works
•360 and OG Xbox games run better with FPS Boost and Auto HDR
The library is wide, but still waiting for that massive God of War-level exclusive.
⸻
Section 5: Xbox Game Pass
Still the best value in gaming.•Game Pass Ultimate: $16.99/month
•Includes cloud gaming, EA Play, Xbox Live Gold
•New first-party releases launch day one
•Dozens of indies, third-party titles, and rotating big-name games
Whether you’re on console, PC, or cloud—Game Pass is Xbox’s killer app.
⸻
Section 6: User Interface and Ecosystem
UI
•Fast and familiar—essentially an evolved Xbox One dashboard
•Easy to navigate, customizable
•Not flashy, but stable and clean
Cloud Gaming (xCloud)
•Stream Xbox games to phones, tablets, and browsers
•Great for Game Pass users with solid Wi-Fi
Smart Delivery
•Automatically downloads the best version of a game for your console
•No confusion about editions
Xbox also shines in cross-save, cross-play, and controller compatibility across generations.
⸻
Section 7: Controller and AccessoriesController
•Nearly identical to Xbox One controller with textured grip and better D-pad
•Still takes AA batteries (or rechargeable pack sold separately)
•Responsive, comfortable, familiar
Storage Expansion
•1TB Expansion Card by Seagate ($120–$150)
•USB external drives for old-gen games only
Storage fills up fast—1TB goes quicker than you think with big 4K games.
⸻
Section 8: Pros and Cons
Pros:
•Best performance and graphics in console gaming
•Fast load times, Quick Resume is a game changer
•Game Pass is unmatched in value
•Great backwards compatibility
•Quiet, cool-running design
Cons:
•Lacks blockbuster exclusives (compared to PS5)
•Game Pass rotates out games, not all are permanent
•No built-in battery in controller
•Still behind Sony in global brand buzz and narrative
⸻
Section 9: Who Should Buy the Xbox Series X in 2024?
Buy it if:
•You want top-tier console power for 4K/120Hz gaming
•You’re a Game Pass subscriber or planning to be
•You care about performance, not just exclusives
•You want a future-proof console for the next 4–5 years
Skip or reconsider if:
•You only want exclusives—Sony still has the better narrative lineup
•You don’t have a 4K TV or care about performance (Series S is cheaper)
•You already game on PC with Game Pass
⸻
Conclusion: Final Verdict
The Xbox Series X is the most powerful console available, with unmatched value through Game Pass and future-ready hardware. It’s not the most exciting console in terms of design or exclusives—but it’s rock solid, deeply integrated, and technically elite.
If you value performance, flexibility, and service, Xbox Series X is a no-brainer. If you value story-driven exclusives and prestige titles, Sony might still edge it out—for now.
Final Score: 9/10