How Much Storage Does Xbox Series X Have & How to Expand Space

How Much Storage Does Xbox Series X Have

The Xbox Series X ships with a 1TB NVMe SSD, while the Xbox Series S comes with a 512GB NVMe SSD. However, the actual available space is less than that. As 198GB is reserved for system files and the Xbox operating system, the usable storage space of the Xbox Series X is 802GB.

As for the Xbox Series S, it only has 364GB available storage space. Since next-generation games set to be pretty large, every gigabyte counts. You should also note that current games like Call of Duty, Halo, and NBA 2K exceed 100GB already. Hence, it is very likely that the space is not enough.

Fortunately, you can expand storage space for the Xbox Series X/S. How to do that? Please pay attention to the section below.

Further reading:

Xbox Series X is a flagship console for Xbox, while the Xbox Series S is an all-digital version. Both of the two versions are released on the same day. With fast load speeds and impressive graphics, Xbox Series X is beloved by millions of gamers.

Related article: Xbox Series X vs Series S: What’s the Difference | Which Is Better

Add Space to Xbox Series X and Series S

Here are two methods to increase storage space for Xbox Series X and Series S.

Way 1: Utilize the Xbox Series X Expansion Card

The Seagate Storage Expansion card for Xbox Series X/S is the best solution to storage expansion. The Xbox Series X expansion card is a compact memory card-style SSD, mimicking the internal SSD with identical performance. Besides, it also supports USB external hard drives like Xbox One consoles even if it has limitations.

Both the Series X and Series S come with three USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports and expansion ports for 1TB Seagate Expansion cards, which will match the consoles’ internal storage. In addition to the SSD embedded in Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, the Xbox Series X expansion card is a perfect storage upgrade.

The Seagate Storage Expansion Card can connect to Xbox Series X and Series S via a dedicated and proprietary connector on the console’s rear. The rectangular port locates adjacent to the HDMI output on both consoles, labelled with STORAGE EXPANSION.

These cards are slightly larger than your average USB thumb drive, with a sliding plastic cover for safekeeping. After removing the included cover, you can slide the card into the port, slightly protruding from the back I/O panel.

Step 1: Remove the protective sleeve included with the Xbox Storage Expansion Card.

Step 2: Insert the Storage Expansion Card into the Storage Expansion port.

Step 3: Press the Expansion Card until it emits a distinct click. After that, your Xbox console will automatically detect and configure the Xbox Storage Expansion Card, coupled with an on-screen notification.

Further reading:

Almost all Xbox One accessories can work with Xbox Series X and Series S extending to the existing storage ecosystem, which guarantees partial compatibility for external hard drives ranging from Xbox One era via USB connectivity. Then these portable storage devices become an ideal and budget-friendly alternative to the official Seagate Expansion Card.

The downside is that USB drives don’t match Microsoft’s custom SSD speed and even impose significant limitations on their capabilities. Due to slow transfer speeds, Xbox Series X and Series S titles won’t run on external hard drives.

Differently, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox titles all can run on an external USB hard drive with Xbox Series X and Series S. If the previous-generation software doesn’t receive Xbox Series-geared upgrades, it can run on USB storage as well.

Also read: Xbox Series X vs PC: Choose a Suitable Device for Gameplay

Way 2: Use an Xbox Series X External Hard Drive

Xbox Series X external hard drive recommendations

• Toshiba Canvio Basics Portable External Hard Drive-1TB
• Seagate Halo Game Drive for Xbox
• WD Elements Portable External Hard Drive-4TB
• WD Black P10 1-5TB Game Drive
• Samsung T7 Portable 500GB

How to expand space of Xbox Series X with an external hard drive?

You are required to format the Xbox Series X external hard drive before using it to add space for the console. Hence, it is vital to back up all stored files in the external hard drive before connecting to the Xbox Series X console.

After that, connect the external hard drive to the console. When you are prompted to format, confirm the operation and then follow the on-screen instructions to finish the process.