Microsoft · platform · 2020
Xbox Series X (Disc, 1TB)
Microsoft's 4K120 disc-drive console and the only way to run Forza/Assetto-style sims on Xbox wheels.
Microsoft's full-power console: the best place on console for Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon 5, and it also runs ACC, F1 25, EA WRC and NASCAR 25. Repeated price increases have made it the most expensive way to race on console.
AI rating
- Sim catalog
- 6
- Wheel support
- 7
- Performance
- 7
- Value
- 3
Who it suits
- First rig
- 7
- Console racing
- 9
- Competitive racing
- 5
- Small rooms
- 7
- Tight budgets
- 2
- Enthusiasts
- 3
Scores are AI analysis of public information (specs, manuals, published reviews and owner reports), not a hands-on test. How we rate
Pros and cons
- Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon 5 at their best on console, both on Game Pass
- Also runs ACC, F1 25, EA WRC and NASCAR 25
- Wheel support from Logitech, Thrustmaster and Fanatec (with an Xbox-licensed rim)
- No Gran Turismo 7, iRacing, LMU or Automobilista 2
- $799.99 after the August 2026 increase, $150 more than a disc PS5
- Forza Motorsport's content updates have wound down
Watch out: Wheels must be Xbox-licensed: a PlayStation-version Logitech or Thrustmaster won't work, and Fanatec bases need an Xbox-licensed rim.
What it feels like
- Noise
- Load times
The SSD makes games load in seconds and Quick Resume returns you to a session fast.
The fan is quiet in normal play, but it is audible in a silent room.
The console is a big tower that needs ventilation space beside your TV or rig.
About the size and shape of a small desktop PC tower.
What the Xbox Series X (1TB, disc drive) works with
- 19 of the 38 wheel bases we track work on Xbox Series.
Wheel bases that work on Xbox Series
- Moza R12 V2 (12 Nm) · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim84
- Fanatec ClubSport DD+ (15 Nm) · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim83
- Moza R21 Ultra (21 Nm) · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim83
- Moza R9 V3 (9 Nm) · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim82
- Fanatec CSL DD (8 Nm) · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim81
- Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Pro (5 Nm bundle) · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim81
- Fanatec ClubSport DD (12 Nm) · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim79
- Logitech G RS50 System (PlayStation/PC) · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim79
- Logitech G RS50 System (Xbox/PC) · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim78
- Moza R5 Racing Bundle · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim77
- Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel (Xbox/PC)76
- Fanatec CSL DD (5 Nm) · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim74
- Moza R3 Racing Bundle (Xbox & PC) · Needs an Xbox-licensed rim72
- Thrustmaster T598-X (Xbox/PC)71
- Thrustmaster T248 (Xbox/PC)68
- Thrustmaster TX Racing Wheel Leather Edition (Xbox/PC)64
- Logitech G920 Driving Force (Xbox/PC)62
- Logitech G923 TRUEFORCE (Xbox/PC)62
- Thrustmaster T128 (Xbox/PC)58
Racing games on Xbox Series
- Assetto Corsa Competizione
- Assetto Corsa
- DiRT Rally 2.0
- EA Sports WRC
- Forza Motorsport
- F1 25
- NASCAR 25
- Forza Horizon 5
Tech facts
| Storage | 1 TB |
|---|---|
| Disc drive | Yes |
| Video out | HDMI 2.1, up to 4K120, 1440p supported |
| VR | None |
| Power supply | Internal, 100-240V |
| Wall plug | NEMA 5-15 (US grounded cord) |
| Outlets needed | 1 |
| Connection | HDMI 2.1 out (4K up to 120Hz); USB-A for wheelbases; Wi-Fi/Ethernet |
| Software | Xbox OS |
| Size (W × D × H) | 6 × 6 × 12 in (15 × 15 × 30 cm) |
| Weight | 10 lb (4.45 kg) |
| Materials | Plastic |
| Released | 2020 |
| Platforms | PS5XboxPC |
Our take
AI analysis of public information, not a hands-on review.
The Xbox Series X is the platform pick for anyone whose sim-racing rig will plug into an Xbox rather than a PC. It has a 4K UHD Blu-ray drive, 1TB SSD, 12 TFLOPS GPU, 16GB RAM and HDMI 2.1 output up to 4K at 120Hz, and it is backward compatible with older Xbox titles. The catch is price: after the August 1, 2026 increase, press reports put the disc model at $799.99. That is far above its launch price and well above a budget wheel. It also means the console may cost more than a first wheel and pedal set. Check that any wheelbase you buy carries Xbox licensing, because many popular bases are PC-only or need a specific Xbox-compatible bundle or mode. Setup is simple: plug in power, HDMI to a TV or monitor, and connect the base by USB. There is no VR support. If you already own a decent PC, a PC-based rig usually gives you more wheel choice and mod support. If you play on a couch with a console, this is the straightforward option.
Questions buyers ask
Will my wheel work with Xbox Series X?
Only if it is Xbox-licensed, so check the exact product or bundle. Many bases are PC-only, and some Xbox-compatible bases need a specific mode or the Xbox version of the bundle.
Do I need the disc-drive model for sim racing?
No. The disc drive only matters if you buy physical games. Wheel support works the same on the all-digital Series X, which is cheaper.
Can I use a 1440p monitor or VR?
Series X supports 1440p output over HDMI, and 4K at up to 120Hz on HDMI 2.1 displays. It has no VR support.