Microsoft announces the disc-less Xbox Series X

Microsoft has announced an all-digital white version of the Xbox Series X, without a disc drive. The disc drive will only be available in a special edition console in limited quantities.

After making the cheaper Xbox Series S disc-less, Microsoft is taking another big step towards removing the disc drive in its consoles. Later this year, the standard version of the more powerful Xbox Series X will also be disc-less, the company announced on Sunday.

- "This holiday, three new Xbox Series X|S console options will join our current lineup, featuring the same speed and performance with more design, storage, and price options to fit your needs," said Roanne Sones, Head of Xbox Devices.


Three Xbox consoles
The three refreshed Xbox consoles are the white Xbox Series S with a 1TB SSD, the white Xbox Series X with a 1TB SSD, and a special edition black Xbox Series X with a 2TB SSD.



They will feature the same graphics hardware as the current versions, including up to 4K 120Hz, VRR and HDR, made possible by HDMI 2.1. Your TV must also support HDMI 2.1. See the TV Database.

All three will launch by late 2024 for $350/€350, $450/€500 and $600/€650, respectively.


The disc-less console future
Sony recently introduced the PlayStation 5 Slim with a detachable disc drive. The cheapest version comes without the disc drive, while the more expensive version already has the optional disc drive installed.

Microsoft, on the other hand, is taking steps towards a disc-less console, and it is difficult not to view this announcement as one of the final steps towards that goal.

Yes, there is still the 2TB Xbox Series X with a built-in disc drive, but Microsoft says it "will be available in limited quantities in select markets" only.

Removing the disc drive from the standard versions of PlayStation and Xbox means that many buyers will no longer have the option to play not only game discs but also DVD, Blu-ray and UHD Blu-ray discs at home. Instead, you will have to buy a standalone UHD Blu-ray player, which is becoming harder to find.

 Also read: The State of Ultra HD Blu-ray in 2024