Why Microsoft’s Xbox Series X Refresh Focuses on More Than Raw Power

In a year of high-tech advancements, Microsoft’s stylish new Xbox Series X consoles prove that a mid-gen refresh doesn’t have to be about power alone.

With the release of the PS5 Pro, options for jumping into the world of console gaming have expanded, offering gamers new ways to get the most out of their living room experience. However, it’s the new Xbox Series X 2 TB Galaxy Black Special Edition and white Xbox Series X 1TB Digital Edition, which launched a few weeks ago, that me most excited. Yes, that may sound a bit strange, but bear with me—it will all make sense.

I have been a PlayStation gamer for years and have owned every Sony console since the launch of the PS3. There have been plenty of ups and downs over that time, with some of the core franchises Sony introduced in that console generation fading since that system hit store shelves. But even with the excitement about what Sony was doing in the console space, I couldn’t ignore Xbox. It was the 900-lb gorilla that everyone knew was gaining traction and dominated gaming until the Xbox One.

At that point, the tide turned back toward Sony with the PS4, and even as new systems entered the market, Sony relatively maintained its lead with the PS5. With the launch of the PS5 Pro, we’re once again seeing Sony cater to tech-loving players, even though there’s still plenty of life in the PS5. This is where I’m excited about the Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black, an update of the original Xbox Series X that addresses some issues—minor CPU changes, cooling, and storage—without being a full mid-generation refresh.

“For new Xbox adopters or those looking to upgrade from older hardware, the Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Edition presents a compelling package.”

While the PS5 Pro aims to enhance power under the hood, pushing toward a more PC-like experience, Microsoft has expanded the ways gamers can jump into 4K gaming. With many of its exclusives already on PC, it makes sense that Microsoft isn’t rushing to release another console to compete at the high end. The new versions of the Xbox Series X serve as entry points or upgrades for those looking to get into gaming. While the PS5 Pro is designed to be future-proofed for the upcoming 8K wave of TVs, Xbox remains focused on games, offering various ways to explore what living room gaming can deliver.

On the surface, the Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Edition maintains the familiar monolithic structure of the standard Series X while introducing a striking cosmic aesthetic. The console features an artistically rendered galaxy pattern, with white and green stars scattered across three sides of its black surface in a design that manages to be both spontaneous and carefully composed—all for $599. If you want to go disc-less, the new white Xbox Series X includes the slightly refreshed internals but offers an option without the disc drive at a more attractive price of $449.99.

Microsoft has made these new editions feel special, with design elements that stand out from the standard versions. The Galaxy Black console now features a Velocity Green base, which contrasts beautifully with the celestial theme, giving the console a unique feel. This colour scheme extends to the included controller, which sports several unique features of its own. The same goes for the white Series X, offering a look previously available only with the Series S console, giving gamers more choice and a fresh design that looks great under a TV setup.

In reality, the most significant upgrade in this Xbox Series X mid-gen launch is the new storage options with the Galaxy Black Edition’s 2TB SSD. The white Xbox Series X does little to change up the core of the console, but the removal of a disc drive that many do not use gives the option to make things cheaper, something very welcome when everything feels they are getting more expensive. 

“In reality, the most significant upgrade in this Xbox Series X mid-gen launch is the new storage options with the Galaxy Black Edition’s 2TB SSD.”

Personally, I like what the Galaxy Black Edition brings to the table with its doubled storage. While it doesn’t introduce any fundamental changes to the console’s processing capabilities, the increased storage capacity represents a significant quality-of-life improvement. Modern games frequently exceed 100GB in size, making the original 1TB drive increasingly restrictive for players with extensive digital libraries.

For new Xbox adopters or those looking to upgrade from older hardware, the Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Edition presents a compelling package. The combination of increased storage capacity and distinctive aesthetics offers tangible benefits over the standard model. There are now plenty of ways to jump into the Xbox ecosystem, not to mention options for enjoying many features on PC. Since most gamers don’t have 8K TVs or simply don’t notice minor graphical changes due to their display or the types of games they play, it doesn’t make sense to spend nearly the price of a Nintendo Switch on top of a standard console cost for that slight boost.

“Microsoft has taken a different approach—at least for now—to the question of how to tackle this mid-generation refresh, and with people still loving gaming and console prices being a major issue, it makes sense.”

Microsoft has taken a different approach—at least for now—to the question of how to tackle this mid-generation refresh, and with people still loving gaming and console prices being a major issue, it makes sense. The release of the Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Edition and the new White Series X 1TB Digital Edition demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment to evolving its hardware offerings while maintaining the core strengths of the Series X platform. The thoughtful design touches and practical storage upgrade suggest a deep understanding of both aesthetic and functional consumer needs.

I am almost certain we will see a refreshed Xbox Series X console before the end of 2025 with comparable specs to the PS5 Pro, but for now, that isn’t necessary. There is plenty of room for these consoles to showcase their capabilities, and with new storage options and lower price points, Microsoft is making it easier to jump over to Xbox.

While it lacks the powerful specs to thrill tech enthusiasts, the Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition successfully balances form and function. Especially with the imminent release of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, the new Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, plus the extensive Xbox Game Pass library available the minute you turn on the console, there’s a lot to be excited about. While it may not represent a revolutionary upgrade, the doubled storage capacity addresses a genuine need, and the striking design offers a fresh take on the console’s appearance. For gamers seeking both expanded storage and distinctive aesthetics, this special edition delivers on both fronts.

The refreshed Xbox Series X consoles demonstrate Microsoft’s agility in meaningfully updating its hardware lineup without sacrificing the core strengths that have made the Series X successful. For current Series X owners, deciding whether the special edition or white variant is worth an upgrade will likely come down to storage needs and aesthetic preferences. However, for new buyers, these refreshed consoles offer the most complete and compelling version of Microsoft’s flagship to date, making Xbox an attractive choice for those exploring the platform. Just in time for the holidays, too.

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