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To set up a new Xbox Series X or Series S, connect it to power and an HDMI-capable TV or monitor, turn it on, connect to broadband, sign in with a Microsoft account, and complete the initial update. You can follow the console prompts or use the Xbox app as a setup guide; Xbox does not identify the app as mandatory.
What you need before starting
- An Xbox Series X or Series S and its power cord.
- An HDMI-capable TV or monitor.
- A broadband internet connection.
- A Microsoft account for sign-in.
- The Xbox Wireless Controller included with the console.
Xbox’s setup video describes the Series X package as including an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable and the Series S package as including a High Speed HDMI cable, along with the console, power cord, and controller. The video was published in 2020, so check the contents of your current package: bundles can vary by region and model revision. See Xbox’s setup video.
How to set up an Xbox Series X or Series S for the first time
1. Choose a suitable spot
Place the console near the TV or monitor and a power outlet. Keep its vents unobstructed so air can circulate. Xbox’s setup material includes preparing the space but does not specify a measured clearance, so do not rely on an invented distance.
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Connect the console to power and use an HDMI cable to connect it to the TV or monitor. Select the display’s corresponding HDMI input if it does not show the Xbox screen automatically. The setup video lists an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable for Series X and a High Speed HDMI cable for Series S; both are described as included in the packages shown there.
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- 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.
3. Turn on the console and controller
Turn on the console and connect or pair the included controller as directed by the prompts on screen. Controller connection is part of Xbox’s setup sequence. The available official instructions do not establish current button combinations or menu labels, so follow the instructions displayed by your console.
4. Connect to broadband and sign in
Follow the on-screen setup to connect to your broadband network and sign in with a Microsoft account. Xbox identifies broadband and a Microsoft account among the basic setup needs. Xbox’s console setup information provides the basic requirements.
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- 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.
5. Choose how to complete setup
You can continue using the prompts on the TV, or use the Xbox app to guide setup from a phone. Xbox Support’s setup video demonstrates the app route, but does not make it a requirement. Choose the TV-based route if you do not want to use a phone.
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6. Let the initial update finish
The first startup includes a software update. Xbox Wire’s “Getting Started with Xbox Series X|S,” published November 15, 2024, says to connect the console to an HDMI-compatible TV and turn it on to start the updating process. Allow the update to complete before attaching extras such as an external hard drive or charging station, as Xbox Wire recommends.
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- 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.
7. Reach the home screen
When setup and the update are complete, continue through any remaining on-screen prompts until the console reaches its home screen. You can then install or launch games and connect optional accessories.
Choose a setup route: Xbox app or console prompts
| Route | What it offers | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Xbox app | Phone-assisted setup, shown in Xbox Support’s setup video. | A phone with the Xbox app; the available official material does not establish that it is required. |
| Console prompts | Complete setup at the TV by following the instructions on screen. | The console, display, broadband connection, and Microsoft account. |
Do you need extra storage or accessories?
No extra storage accessory is required to complete initial setup. If you later need room for more games, Xbox lists three options: uninstall games you no longer play, connect an external hard drive, or add an Xbox Series X|S Storage Expansion Card. The official options are described on Xbox’s console information page.
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- 【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.
- Uninstall games: A no-purchase option when you need to make room.
- External hard drive: An option Xbox lists for adding storage. The cited material does not establish compatibility details for every game.
- Series X|S Storage Expansion Card: A dedicated optional storage accessory. Microsoft’s U.S. listing for the Series S 1 TB (White) recommends a 1 TB card for the best experience, but presents it as an option rather than a setup prerequisite. View that Microsoft Store listing.
Xbox’s getting-started page also displays an Xbox Rechargeable Battery + USB-C Cable as an accessory. It is an optional controller-power choice, not something you need to start the console.
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Quick Recap
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- 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.
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