Xbox Series X visual output: Do you need a 4K TV for Xbox Series X, or is 1080p enough? Does the Xbox Series X support 8K


The next generation of consoles is now here, following the Xbox Series X's launch alongside the PS5 earlier this month.

It's a time to rejoice, a time to wonder, and a time to try and figure out if your TV is even going to be able to handle all of those polygons and pixels, or if they'll spill out of it like some cyberpunk nightmare, flooding your room with half-built character models and scenery.

Alright, that probably won't happen, but you really should find out if you're going to need a new TV to handle the power of the Xbox Series X.

BUY NOW:Xbox Series X product page is live on Amazon

So, will you need to get a 4K TV for the Xbox Series X? Keep reading to find out.

Will I need a 4K TV for Xbox Series X?

As with the PS5, the main thing you need to pay attention to is the HDMI connection type. The Xbox Series X has been confirmed as using HDMI 2.1, which is mainly found on expensive TVs.

The good news is that HDMI 2.1 is backwards compatible with HDMI 2.0b, which is way more common - you'll find it on most reasonably priced TVs.

That's good news because it means you won't have to buy a 4K TV to use the Xbox Series X - your current will probably be fine. Likewise, you don't need to fork out on a futuristic 8K TV if you don't want to. Just make sure your TV has an HDMI 2.0b connection and can manage 1080p (aka 'Full HD') and you should be good to go.

However, just because you don't need a 4K TV doesn't mean you shouldn't ever get one...

READ MORE:Xbox Series X restock date and availability tracker

Should I get a 4k TV for Xbox Series X?

It really is up to you. We're not going to force your hand, take you down to the shop and make you buy a snazzy new TV. That being said, if you want to get the most out of the Xbox Series X, then you should probably consider investing in one.

There's going to be a fairly noticeable improvement in how games look just because of the console, so it's just a matter of whether or not you want to be able to show off your new TV and console, or if you're happy to wait until the technology is a little more affordable.

If you want to play your games in 4K, of course, you'll need to have a telly that is capable of 4K. But if you're happy with good old-fashioned Full HD, there's no shame in sticking with that for the time being.

READ MORE:Best Xbox One controllers to buy

Does the Xbox Series X support 8K?

The Xbox Series X doesn't currently output in 8K, but this doesn't mean it isn't capable of doing so in the future.

When asked about 8K by WhatHiFi, Microsoft clarified that the "Xbox Series X is fully capable of 8K output. However, as there is not media content or games that currently support 8K resolution, we have not enabled the option within the system settings at this time."

"The Xbox Series X was designed with the next 8 to 10 years of advancements in mind, and as 8K becomes a more widely adopted format, the console will support it.”

Much like with the PS5, it seems that those with 8K TVs will have to wait until the resolution becomes more mainstream among consumers and developers.

Xbox Series X orders are now LIVE

Whatever you decide to do with your TV, it's worth noting that Xbox Series X is now available, and selling like hot cakes, meaning you'll need to be quick in snapping one up.

Right now, we are seeing live product pages on Argos for the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X consoles - you can click either of those links to see them, although stock levels may have dwindled!

There is also a live product page for the Xbox Series X on Amazon - you can click here to check it out. And you'll find Amazon's Xbox Series S product page by clicking right here.

You could also check out the pre-order listing on the official Microsoft Store in the US here, or here if you're in the UK.

BUY NOW:Xbox Series X product page is live on Amazon

For more articles like this, take a look at our Next-Gen page.