Xbox Series X Storage Solutions: A Comprehensive Guide
Expanding your Xbox Series X storage is crucial for gamers with extensive libraries. The console's usable storage of approximately 800GB fills up quickly. This guide explores the best SSD options, categorizing them by functionality.
TL;DR - Top Xbox Series X SSDs:
Our Top Pick: Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S (See it on Amazon!)
WD_Black 1TB C50: (See it on Amazon!)
Samsung T7 External SSD: (See it on Amazon!)
Crucial X8 External SSD: (See it on Amazon!)
WD_Black 2TB P40: (See it on Amazon!)
SSDs for Direct Game Play:
Only a select few SSDs offer the speed and compatibility to run Xbox Series X games directly. These provide the optimal gaming experience with features like Quick Resume.
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Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S: This official Xbox SSD offers seamless plug-and-play installation, fast transfer speeds comparable to the console's internal drive, and full support for Xbox Series X|S features. While pricey, it's the most reliable solution for optimal performance. Available in 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB options.
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WD_Black 1TB C50: Western Digital's official offering provides a more affordable alternative to the Seagate card. It boasts comparable speeds, though boot times might be marginally slower. Available in 512GB and 1TB capacities.
SSDs for Game Storage and Backwards Compatibility:
These external SSDs are ideal for storing games (including Xbox One and 360 titles) without the need for direct gameplay from the drive. They offer greater storage capacity for the price.
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Samsung T7 External SSD: A versatile and portable option offering substantial storage (up to 2TB) at a competitive price. Features fast read/write speeds and 256-bit AES encryption. Perfect for archiving games and other files.
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Crucial X8 External SSD: A cost-effective choice with excellent value. Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities, making it suitable for large game libraries. Compact and durable.
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WD_Black 2TB P40: A stylish external SSD with RGB lighting, offering fast transfer speeds and a robust design. While pricier than other external options, it provides ample storage and is compatible with multiple platforms.
Choosing the Right SSD:
- Plug-and-Play & Optimal Performance: Seagate Expansion Card or WD_Black C50.
- Game Storage & Budget: Samsung T7, Crucial X8, or WD_Black P40.
Consider your budget, storage needs, and whether you require direct game play from the SSD.
Xbox Series X SSD FAQ:
- Compatibility: Only licensed external SSDs (like the Seagate and WD_Black options listed above) allow direct Xbox Series X game play. External SSDs can store games for later installation.
- Speed: The internal Xbox Series X SSD boasts ~2.4GB/s IO throughput.
- Usable Storage: The 1TB advertised storage is reduced to approximately 800GB due to system software.
- Storage Needs: The size of AAA games (often exceeding 150GB) necessitates additional storage for multiple game installations.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you choose the best Xbox Series X SSD to meet your gaming needs and storage requirements.
