Is the Original 2013 Xbox One Still Useful?
That bulky, “VCR-style” Xbox One sitting in your closet might look like a relic, but it hides features that even the newer Series X|S consoles don’t have. While it’s no longer a powerhouse for native 4K gaming, it has evolved into a versatile tool for your entertainment center.
At AwesomeGaming101.com, we’re all about getting the most out of your hardware. Here is why you shouldn’t get rid of your 2013 Xbox One just yet.
💡 The Hidden “Input” Gem
The original Xbox One is the only generation to feature an HDMI-In port. This allows you to plug other devices into the Xbox and pass their video signal through to your TV, saving you an extra input on your television.
1. The Ultimate HDMI Pass-Through Hub
By plugging a Roku, Chromecast, or even a Nintendo Switch into the HDMI-In port, you can consolidate your entertainment. Using the OneGuide app, you can view your external device’s screen while staying inside the Xbox ecosystem, making it a great way to simplify a bedroom TV setup.
2. A Dedicated Cloud Gaming Terminal
Thanks to Xbox Cloud Gaming, the aging internal components of the 2013 model aren’t a dealbreaker anymore. You can stream next-gen Series X|S titles directly to the old hardware. The console basically acts as a streaming box, letting you play modern hits without the need for a hardware upgrade.
3. Your Legacy Media Center (Plex & Kodi)
With support for Plex, Kodi, and VLC, the original Xbox One is a fantastic dedicated media player. It supports external hard drives, so you can plug in a massive library of movies and TV shows and use the Xbox’s interface to organize them. It also remains a reliable Blu-ray player for physical collections.
Comparison: 2013 Model vs. Modern Uses
| Use Case | Value Rank | Best For… |
|---|---|---|
| Native Gaming | Low | Older 360/XB1 Titles |
| Cloud Gaming | High | Modern Game Pass Access |
| Media Center | Excellent | DVD/Blu-ray & Streaming Apps |
| HDMI Input Hub | Unique | Multiple Devices on One TV Port |
❓ FAQ: Original Xbox One in the Modern Era
Q: Does the 2013 Xbox One support 4K? A: No. It is limited to 1080p output. While it can “pass through” a 4K signal via the HDMI-In port, it cannot render games or apps in 4K. For 4K, you need the One S, One X, or a Series console. Q: Can I still use Kinect? A: Yes! The 2013 model is the only one with a dedicated Kinect port. This is the best machine for Kinect Sports Rivals or using voice commands without an adapter. Q: Is it worth upgrading the hard drive? A: If you’re using it as a media center, an external drive is better. Opening the 2013 model is difficult, but plugging an External SSD into the USB 3.0 ports will significantly speed up loading times and dashboard navigation.Final Verdict
If you have the space, the 2013 Xbox One is a perfect “secondary” console. It’s a great fit for a guest room or a child’s playroom where 1080p is more than enough. Between the HDMI-In port and Cloud Gaming, it’s far from obsolete.
What are you doing with your old VCR Xbox? Let us know in the comments! If your console is getting a bit loud, check out our guide on How to Deep Clean Your Xbox One to keep it running for years to come.