Xbox Series X (2TB) Review: Raw Power Unleashed, But at What Cost?
The Xbox Series X. It’s more than just a game console; it’s a statement. A declaration that Microsoft is serious about delivering uncompromising gaming experiences. This 2TB iteration takes that promise even further, doubling down on the internal storage that has been a major pain point. But does this upgraded model justify the price premium, and does it solidify the Series X as the ultimate gaming powerhouse? Let’s dive in.
Performance is, unsurprisingly, the Series X’s strongest suit. The custom AMD Zen 2 processor and RDNA 2 graphics architecture tear through demanding titles with ease. Expect silky smooth frame rates, even at 4K resolution and with ray tracing enabled. Games like Forza Horizon 5 and Cyberpunk 2077 (post-patches, of course) showcase the console’s visual prowess, delivering levels of detail previously unimaginable on console hardware. Loading times are a relic of the past, thanks to the NVMe SSD. Jumping into games is almost instantaneous, and quick resume functionality allows seamless switching between multiple titles.
Aesthetically, the Series X remains… divisive. Its monolithic, minimalist design resembles a mini-fridge more than a sleek gaming machine. However, the build quality is undeniably premium. The console feels solid and well-constructed, radiating an aura of understated power. The included controller is comfortable and familiar, although the textured grips and hybrid D-pad are welcome refinements. It remains a reliable and intuitive input device.
Beyond raw power, the Series X boasts a range of impressive features. Xbox Game Pass remains a game-changer, offering access to a vast library of titles for a monthly subscription fee. Backward compatibility ensures that your existing Xbox One games (and even some Xbox 360 and original Xbox titles) are playable, often with enhanced performance. The expanded 2TB of internal storage is a godsend for gamers with extensive digital libraries, alleviating the storage anxiety that plagued the original model. However, the proprietary storage expansion cards remain the only option for expanding storage without sacrificing performance, and they come at a premium price.
Ultimately, the Xbox Series X (2TB) is a premium console for gamers who demand the best. Its raw power, combined with features like Xbox Game Pass and backward compatibility, make it a compelling choice. However, the somewhat bulky design, the continued reliance on expensive proprietary storage, and the comparatively higher price tag compared to the standard version, may give some potential buyers pause.
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Xbox Series X (2TB) Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 93%
- Design: 92%
- Performance: 94%
- Quality: 93%
- Popularity: 94%
Top Pros
- ✅ Loading times are blazing fast thanks to the NVMe SSD.
- ✅ The increased 2TB storage capacity eases digital library management.
- ✅ Visuals are stunning, particularly with ray tracing enabled in optimized games.
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Key Cons
- ❌ The monolithic, fridge-like design may not appeal to everyone.
- ❌ Proprietary storage expansion cards remain expensive, limiting affordable storage upgrades.
- ❌ The price makes the value proposition complex for casual gamers.
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