Microsoft Unveils Redesigned Xbox Series X: Discless Model and Internal Upgrades
Microsoft has launched a new iteration of its popular Xbox Series X console, featuring a discless design and a striking white exterior. This latest model introduces significant internal redesigns, including a new motherboard and a 6nm system-on-a-chip (SoC), as revealed by YouTuber Austin Evans in a recent teardown video.
The revamped motherboard showcases simplified and repositioned components, with notable changes including the removal of the SSD shield and the absence of the disc drive area. However, enthusiasts hoping to retrofit a disc drive will face challenges, as the process would require soldering connectors.
In terms of cooling, Microsoft has shifted from a vapor chamber to a copper heat pipe design. Despite these alterations, initial tests indicate that exhaust temperature and noise levels remain consistent with the original model, ensuring a familiar user experience.
One of the most significant improvements comes in the form of enhanced power efficiency. The new 6nm chip contributes to a substantial reduction in power consumption. Idle power usage has dropped from 61 watts in the original model to 51 watts in the 2TB version and an impressive 38 watts in the digital model. Gaming scenarios also benefit from reduced power requirements, potentially improving the efficiency of Xbox Cloud Gaming services.
These internal redesigns are expected to lower manufacturing costs for Microsoft, while the updated hardware may offer improved efficiency for Xbox Cloud Gaming servers. This could lead to better performance and cost-effectiveness for the company’s cloud gaming infrastructure.
The white disc-less Xbox Series X is now available for purchase at $449.99, offering a more affordable entry point for gamers who prefer digital content. For those seeking additional storage, a special-edition 2TB Xbox Series X is also available, priced at $599.99.
As Microsoft continues to evolve its gaming hardware, this latest iteration of the Xbox Series X demonstrates the company’s commitment to improving efficiency and expanding options for consumers in the competitive console market.
