Microsoft Xbox (360) buying guide (including how to fix common repairs). Know about Xbox’s evolution over the years, its various versions, and useful accessories required to get the best out of your gaming console.
Those who love playing games, would already be aware of this, the Xbox 360 is the successor to Xbox video game console from Microsoft. In case, you are planning to buy a used console, this information will be useful to you. It was referred to in the past as Xbox Next or Xbox or simply Project Xenon. Microsoft had scheduled its launch just before Christmas of 2005, the biggest shopping season, although it was unveiled on 12.05.2005 on MTV. Xbox 360 is Microsoft’s answer to Sony.
Xbox Over the Years
If gaming is your thing and if you are looking at buying a new gaming console, Xbox 360 would have definitely appeared in your list. Xbox 360 from Microsoft is one of the leading gaming consoles. It is the seventh generation gaming console introduced by Microsoft in 2005. It was an upgradation from the previous sixth generation version, the Xbox.
Xbox was introduced in 2001 and is now not available in the market. With the four year gap between the two versions, there has been tremendous improvements made in the Xbox 360. Xbox 360 is an all-rounder console that allows you to play DVD’s, CD’s, download music and television shows etc. along with amazing graphics and online features.
Xbox 360 is widely popular because of its features, and more importantly, graphics. It is not just a gaming console but also allows you to stream and download HD videos and movies from the 360 shop. You can also store pictures in it along with browsing through you tube and other sites.
Xbox 360 offers a complete entertainment package with internet facilities and cool gaming options. There are many versions of the Xbox, so you should check the specs and games available on each model before purchasing it.
Xbox 360 versions
Xbox 360 comes in 2 versions:
- Standard version of 4GB
- 250 GB
Needless to say the 250GB version is much more expensive than the 4GB version but given the space available in 250 GB, it seems worth the cost. If you are play a lot of games, 4GB is just not going to suffice, so it is recommended that you invest in a 250 GB at the start.
Xbox also has a version of Kinect which has motion sensing gaming. With the Kinect, you can enjoy controller free gaming. It even provides complete 3D motion capture and facial recognition apart from following voice commands and movements. You can either buy the Kinect separately or with the Xbox 360. However, buying it separately might cost you more money.
You can also purchase previous old models of Xbox provided they are not discontinued. You may get it at a cheaper rate too.
Xbox Controllers
Xbox Wireless Controller
Like many fans, if you’re also looking forward to the launch of the new wireless Xbox controller (which was unveiled recently), your wait is going to end soon. Amazon has started offering the black and white models.
Microsoft hasn’t changed the controller too much (for the newer Xbox One console), keeping its popular design mostly intact (with a few notable enhancements).
The Xbox wireless controller is currently compatible with all members of the Xbox One console family (original, S, and X) as well as Windows PC. You will likely only need one wireless dongle on PC, but each supports up to eight separate controllers.
Xbox wireless controller is PC friendly and works via Bluetooth, so no adapter is required (as for the previous gen). Bluetooth allows Microsoft’s Xbox controller to work with Windows 10 PCs and tablets. There’s also a 3.5mm stereo jack for use with compatible headsets. You can also choose from a wide range of colour schemes.
Microsoft’s consoles have always been accompanied with the highest quality gaming controllers, and the Xbox One is no different. Microsoft only made subtle changes / refinement to the Xbox 360 gamepad, which had made it the best option for of all types of games. The Xbox One controller works on Windows PC and setting it up only takes a few minutes. Microsoft’s official drivers allow any Xbox One controller to work with PC games that have controller support.
So get set to cut the cord with the Xbox One wireless controller.
Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller for Windows
This is exactly what you need for PC and Xbox gaming. Now you can play with confidence using this responsive, ergonomic controller. It works on either your PC or Xbox to give you the ultimate gaming experience
Features:
- Play in comfort – A compact, ergonomic shape lets you play comfortably for hours on your PC.
- Vibration feedback gives you a riveting gaming experience.
- Precise thumb sticks, two pressure-point triggers and an 8-way directional pad help you stay in control.
- Powered USB port
Accessories
You can buy additional items to enhance your Xbox 360 experience, such as:
- HDMI cable with which you can connect with your T.V. for a good audio visual experience.
- Wireless Network Adapter to connect to your wifi. Although, the latest models of Xbox 360 have inbuilt wifi, you may need a adapter or an Ethernet cable for your older model of Xbox360.
- USB flash drive
Also Read:
Microsoft Xbox and Sony PlayStation are among the most popular gaming consoles available today. Obviously, both claim their gaming console is the best. These have Wi-Fi, wireless controllers, backward compatibility features, upgradeable hard drive, and more. Both Sony PlayStation & Microsoft XBox gaming console system are closely matched, with both offering high definition graphics, and loads of features to enable you to experience the best gaming experience possible.
Having said that, there are many gamers who love change. So for instance, if they have been using Xbox for years, they are likely to give the PSP a try, and may even like it.
Leave a Reply