To set up a new Xbox Series X or Series S, connect it to power and an HDMI-compatible TV or monitor, turn it on, connect to broadband, sign in with a Microsoft account, and complete the initial update. You can follow the prompts on the console or use the Xbox app as a supported convenience; the app is not established as a requirement.
What you need before setup
Xbox identifies four basic setup needs: an Xbox console, an HDMI-capable TV, broadband internet, and a Microsoft account. Have your Wi-Fi details ready if you plan to connect wirelessly.
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- Xbox Series X or Series S: Check the contents of your specific box, since bundles can vary by region and model revision.
- HDMI-capable display: A TV or monitor with an available HDMI input.
- Broadband internet: The initial setup includes connecting to the internet and updating the console.
- Microsoft account: You will need one to complete the basic setup flow.
Xbox’s November 2020 setup video lists a power cord and Xbox Wireless Controller with both consoles. It describes an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable in the Series X package and a High Speed HDMI cable in the Series S package. Treat those bundle details as a guide, not a guarantee for every current retail package. See Xbox Support’s setup video.
Set up the console step by step
1. Choose a suitable spot and connect the display
Place the console so its vents are not obstructed, then connect it to an HDMI-compatible TV or monitor. Xbox’s setup video includes preparing the space as an early step but does not specify a measured clearance distance, so avoid relying on a made-up spacing rule.
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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.
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2. Connect power and HDMI
Connect the console’s power cord and HDMI cable, then select the corresponding HDMI input on the display if needed. The official setup video lists these cables as included with the respective consoles; check your own box before buying replacements.
3. Turn on the console and start setup
Turn on the console. Xbox Wire’s Getting Started with Xbox Series X|S, published November 15, 2024, says to plug it into an HDMI-compatible TV and turn it on to start the updating process.
Rank #2
- 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.
4. Connect to broadband and sign in
Follow the on-screen setup prompts to connect the console to your broadband network and use your Microsoft account. The exact screens and labels may change, so use the instructions currently shown on your console rather than relying on an older menu path.
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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →5. Choose how to complete setup
Xbox’s setup video walks through using the Xbox app to guide setup. That is a supported option, not a stated requirement: you can follow the console’s prompts at the TV instead. The app route is useful if you prefer to handle setup with a phone; the console route keeps the process on the display.
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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.
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- 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.
6. Let the initial update finish
Allow the console’s initial software update to complete before attaching optional accessories such as an external hard drive or charging station. Xbox Wire recommends finishing the update first. Keep the console connected to power and internet while the update runs.
7. Connect the controller and reach the home screen
Connect or pair the controller as directed by the console. Controller setup is part of Xbox Support’s video sequence, but current button and menu instructions are not established here; follow the prompts shown on your screen. Once setup finishes and the home screen appears, the console is ready for you to install or launch games.
Rank #4
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- 【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.
Do you need extra storage or accessories?
No extra storage is needed to complete first-time setup. If you later need more room for games, Xbox lists three approaches: uninstall games you are no longer using, connect an external hard drive, or add a Series X|S Storage Expansion Card. Microsoft’s U.S. product listing for the Series S 1 TB (White) recommends an expansion card as a best-experience option, not as a setup prerequisite. See Microsoft Store’s Series S 1 TB product page.
An Xbox Rechargeable Battery + USB-C Cable is another optional accessory for controller power; it is not required to set up the console. Xbox’s getting-started page lists it alongside setup information.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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.
Quick comparison: setup and storage choices
| Choice | What it means |
|---|---|
| Xbox app or console prompts | The Xbox app provides phone-assisted setup guidance; following the prompts on the console is also an option. The app is not established as mandatory. Xbox Support setup video |
| Uninstall unused games | Free space by removing games you are not currently using. Xbox lists this as a storage-management option. Xbox console experience page |
| External hard drive | Connect an external drive as an added-storage option. Compatibility details for individual games are not established here. Xbox console experience page |
| Series X|S Storage Expansion Card | Add dedicated console storage; it is optional rather than necessary for first startup. Xbox console experience page |
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