Skip to main content

How to set up Xbox Series X with external storage

Running out of space on your Xbox Series X™? Between massive game installs and regular updates, it’s easy to hit that storage limit. Luckily, adding external storage can help you make room without deleting your favorite titles.   At Asurion, we help people extend the life of their tech—from speeding up consoles to upgrading game storage. Here’s how to connect and use external drives with your Xbox Series X.

What type of external drive works with Xbox Series X? 

Your Xbox supports the following external storage types:

  • USB 3.0 or later external hard drives or SSDs  
  • Minimum 128 GB capacity  
  • Formatted for Xbox use (you’ll be prompted to do this)

You can also use the Seagate Storage Expansion Card, which plugs directly into the back of the console and supports next-gen titles.

How to set up a USB external drive

Plugging in a drive is easy. Here’s how to get it working:

  1. Plug your external USB 3.0 drive into one of the USB ports on your Xbox.  
  2. A pop-up will appear asking how you want to use the drive.  
  3. Choose Format storage device to use it for games and apps.  
  4. Give your drive a name, then select Install new things here if you want it to be your default.  
  5. Select Format storage device to confirm. 

Your console will take a few seconds to format the drive, and then it’s ready to go.

What can you store on an external drive? 

You can use external drives to:

  • Store and play Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games.  
  • Store Xbox Series X|S games (you’ll need to move them back to internal storage to play).  
  • Save apps, media, screenshots, and game captures.

Only the internal SSD and the official Expansion Card can launch Series X|S games natively.

How to move games between storage devices 

Want to free up internal space or transfer games? Here’s how:

  1. Go to Settings > System > Storage devices.  
  2. Select Internal storage or your external drive.  
  3. Choose Games and apps, then highlight the game you want to move.  
  4. Press the Menu button and select Move or copy.  
  5. Choose your target drive and confirm. 

This is a great way to back up large titles or make room for new ones.

More helpful Xbox tips from our team:

FAQ

Can I play Series X games directly from an external USB drive? 

No. You can store them on external drives, but to play them, you’ll need to move them to internal storage or an official Expansion Card.

What’s the best type of external storage for Xbox Series X?

 A USB 3.0 SSD will offer the fastest speeds for older games. For Series X|S game performance, use the Seagate Expansion Card designed for Xbox.

Do I need to format my external drive? 

Yes, when you first plug it in, Xbox will prompt you to format the drive so it’s compatible with your console.

Will adding external storage slow down my Xbox? 

Not for older games or media files. However, load times may vary based on the speed of your external drive, especially if it’s a traditional HDD.


The Asurion® trademarks and logos are the property of Asurion, LLC. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Asurion is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by any of the respective owners of the other trademarks appearing herein.

Microsoft
Gaming
Home Tech
  • SHARE THIS ARTICLE