Is the Original 2013 Xbox One Still Useful? 5 Alternate Uses
If you still have that original, bulky “VCR-style” Xbox One sitting in a box, don’t relegate it to the attic just yet. While its internal hardware struggles with native 2026 AAA titles, its HDMI-in port and surprisingly robust app ecosystem make it a Swiss Army knife for your entertainment center.
At AwesomeGaming101.com, we love squeezing every bit of life out of legacy tech. Here are five practical, high-value ways to put your original Xbox One back to work this year.
1. The Ultimate “Legacy” Media Center
Because the original Xbox One family supports apps like Kodi and Plex, you can turn it into a dedicated home theater PC (HTPC). It handles 1080p video files effortlessly and supports HEVC (x265) playback via external USB drives, making it more versatile than many modern budget streaming sticks.
2. A Dedicated Retro Emulation Box
By purchasing a Microsoft Developer License (typically around $19), you can unlock Dev Mode on your console. This allows you to install emulators like RetroArch. The 2013 Xbox One is a powerhouse for everything from the Atari 2600 to the PlayStation 1 and Nintendo 64, providing a “pixel-perfect” retro experience on your big screen.
3. The “Cloud-Only” Gaming Terminal
If you have kids or a guest room, the old Xbox One is a perfect dedicated cloud machine. Since Xbox Cloud Gaming handles the processing on external servers, your “outdated” console can suddenly play next-gen Series X exclusives without a single hardware upgrade.
4. A Smart HDMI Pass-Through Hub
The original Xbox One is one of the last consoles to feature an HDMI-in port. You can plug a Roku, Fire Stick, or even a Nintendo Switch into the back of your Xbox. This lets you switch between your media apps and other consoles without ever needing to change your TV input.
5. High-Value Trade-In or Charity
If you truly don’t need it, don’t let it sit unused. Working Xbox One consoles still fetch a decent price on local marketplaces like eBay or Facebook. Alternatively, donating to local youth centers or hospitals can give a new gamer their start with a massive library of affordable legacy games.
Repurposing Comparison: 2026 Edition
| Use Case | Setup Difficulty | Best For… |
|---|---|---|
| Media Center | Easy | Plex/Kodi Enthusiasts |
| Retro Emulation | Moderate/Hard | Classic Gaming Fans |
| Cloud Terminal | Easy | Budget Next-Gen Access |
| HDMI Hub | Very Easy | Input Organization |
❓ FAQ: Legacy Xbox One Value
Q: Does the original Xbox One support 4K? A: No. The 2013 “VCR” model is limited to 1080p output. If you want 4K Blu-ray or 4K streaming, you’ll need the Xbox One S or One X models. Q: Is it safe to leave it on as a server? A: The original Xbox One is more power-hungry than a dedicated media box like an Apple TV. If you’re using it as a server, we recommend using “Sleep” mode rather than leaving it fully powered on 24/7. Q: Can I still play new games on it natively? A: Native support for new AAA titles has mostly transitioned to the Series X|S. However, through Xbox Cloud Gaming, you can still stream almost every new release in 2026.Are you still using your OG Xbox One? Tell us your favorite “secret” use for it in the comments! If your disc drive is acting up, check out our guide on how to fix Xbox One Disc Drive issues to get it back in media player shape.