Six years is a long time in technology. Since launching in late 2020, the Xbox Series X has gone from Microsoft’s flagship next-generation console to a mature gaming platform competing against newer hardware, ever-more powerful gaming PCs and an evolving PlayStation ecosystem.
So, if you’ve got around £500 to spend in 2026, is the Xbox Series X still worth buying?
After owning the console for several years, the answer isn’t quite as simple as yes or no. Here’s what it’s really like to live with Microsoft’s flagship console in 2026.
A Console That Has Aged Exceptionally Well
When the Xbox Series X first launched, its tower-like design divided opinion.
Six years later, I actually think it’s one of the best-looking consoles Microsoft has ever produced.
The minimalist matte-black finish blends effortlessly into a TV cabinet without drawing attention to itself, and unlike some more aggressively styled consoles, it still looks modern years after release.
More importantly, it feels incredibly well built.
Whisper-Quiet Performance
One thing that continues to impress me is just how quiet the Series X remains.
Even when playing modern AAA games, the cooling system does an excellent job of moving heat away from the console without becoming distracting.
Unlike older Xbox generations, I’ve never experienced the fan suddenly roaring into life during demanding games.
Owner Insight
One thing you quickly discover as an owner is that the large circular exhaust vent on the top of the console becomes a dust magnet over time.
It’s worth giving the top grille a quick clean every few months, particularly if you have pets, but even after years of use the cooling system remains remarkably quiet.
Performance Still Feels Fast
Despite its age, the Xbox Series X still delivers an excellent gaming experience.
Games load in seconds thanks to the NVMe SSD, menus remain responsive and most modern titles continue targeting high resolutions alongside smooth frame rates.
Although today’s gaming PCs can significantly outperform the console, they also cost considerably more.
For most living room gamers, the Series X still offers outstanding performance without any of the maintenance that comes with PC gaming.
Quick Resume Is Still One of Xbox’s Best Features
If there’s one feature that completely changes how you use the console, it’s Quick Resume.
The ability to suspend multiple games and return exactly where you left off in just a few seconds still feels impressive.
Owner Insight
The biggest advantage isn’t switching between games. It’s how naturally Quick Resume fits into a wider Xbox Series X home entertainment setup.
It’s real life.
If the kids suddenly want to watch YouTube, or you need to head out unexpectedly, you simply turn the console off.
Days—or even weeks—later, you can power it back on and continue exactly where you stopped without searching for save points or waiting through lengthy loading screens.
Once you’ve lived with Quick Resume, it’s surprisingly difficult to go back.
Xbox Game Pass Remains Incredible Value
Game Pass continues to be one of Xbox’s biggest strengths.
Instead of spending £60–£70 every time a new game launches, the subscription gives access to a huge library covering everything from major first-party releases to indie favourites and EA Play titles.
Over the years it has easily saved me hundreds of pounds.
If you enjoy trying different genres without committing to every full-price release, Game Pass is still one of the best value subscriptions in gaming. Our Xbox & Game Pass Hub brings together more recommendations and coverage.
More Than Just a Games Console
The Xbox Series X isn’t just a gaming machine.
It has become the centre of my home entertainment setup.
Unlike many streaming devices, it also includes a built-in 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray drive, making it a genuinely capable media hub as well as a console.
Apps including Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV and YouTube all work smoothly, while support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos makes the most of a modern TV and surround sound system.
If your Xbox sits permanently beneath the television, chances are you’ll use it for much more than gaming.
The Downsides
No product is perfect, and after years of ownership a few frustrations remain.
Storage Fills Up Quickly
Modern games regularly exceed 100GB.
Although the internal SSD is fast, usable storage disappears surprisingly quickly once you have several large games installed.
Expansion Storage Is Expensive
Microsoft’s proprietary expansion cards work brilliantly but still cost considerably more than standard NVMe SSDs available for PCs and some competing consoles.
Dashboard Advertising
The Xbox dashboard is quick and responsive, but I’d still prefer to see fewer adverts and promotional tiles taking up valuable screen space.
AA Batteries Feel Outdated
The controller remains one of the most comfortable I’ve ever used.
However, relying on AA batteries in 2026 feels unnecessarily old-fashioned.
Owner Insight
If you’re buying an Xbox Series X today, I’d recommend budgeting for a rechargeable battery pack straight away. Our guide to essential Xbox Series X accessories covers other worthwhile additions.
It’s a relatively small purchase, but it makes day-to-day ownership much more enjoyable.
Should You Buy an Xbox Series X in 2026?
It depends on what you’re looking for.
Buy the Xbox Series X if:
- You want excellent value through Xbox Game Pass.
- You prefer console gaming over PC maintenance.
- You want a quiet, reliable machine beneath your TV.
- You enjoy both gaming and streaming movies in one device.
Consider Other Options if:
- You want the highest possible graphics settings regardless of cost.
- You’re committed to Sony’s exclusive games.
- You prefer upgrading hardware regularly through PC gaming
Tech Torque Verdict
The Xbox Series X may no longer be the newest console on the market, but it remains one of the easiest recommendations for anyone wanting hassle-free gaming.
It’s powerful, incredibly quiet, packed with features and backed by one of the best subscription services in gaming.
After several years of ownership, what impresses me most isn’t a single headline feature.
It’s how reliable everything has been.
Whether I’m jumping into a game using Quick Resume, streaming a film in Dolby Vision or simply relaxing after work, the Series X quietly gets on with the job.
Technology moves quickly, but good products age gracefully.
The Xbox Series X is one of them.
⭐ Tech Torque Score
Category
Rating
Performance
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Value for Money
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of Use
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Home Entertainment
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Long-Term Ownership
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Best For
✅ Families
✅ Game Pass subscribers
✅ Living room gaming
✅ Home entertainment enthusiasts
Could Be Better
❌ Storage expansion costs
❌ Dashboard advertising
❌ AA batteries in the standard controller
