What Xbox series x HDMI cable type is in the box?
The Xbox Series X comes with a 2-meter Ultra High Speed HDMI cable certified for HDMI 2.1. This is the exact HDMI cable you need to unlock the console’s full next-generation capabilities, including 4K at 120Hz and 8K at 60Hz, right out of the box.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| HDMI version | 2.1 (Ultra High Speed) |
| Length | 2 meters (6.6 feet) |
| Maximum bandwidth | 48 Gbps |
| Supported resolutions | 4K@120Hz, 8K@60Hz |
| Key features | VRR, ALLM, eARC, HDR10, Dolby Vision |
| Certification | Ultra High Speed HDMI certified |
This cable is not a standard HDMI 2.0 cord.
Key features of the included Ultra High Speed HDMI cable
The included cable supports HDMI 2.1's full feature set, which is what makes the Xbox Series X's performance possible. Here's what each feature actually does for your gaming experience:
4K@120Hz is the headline feature. It delivers 120 frames per second at full 4K resolution, which makes fast-paced games like shooters and racing titles feel dramatically smoother and more responsive. The difference between 60Hz and 120Hz is immediately visible in motion clarity.
8K@60Hz is supported for future-proofing. While few games currently render at 8K internally, the cable can handle the bandwidth if you have an 8K display and the console outputs that signal for media or future titles.
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) eliminates screen tearing by dynamically syncing the display's refresh rate to the console's frame output. This means no judder or stutter when frame rates fluctuate, which is common in open-world games.
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) automatically switches your TV to its game mode when you start playing. This reduces input lag to the minimum possible value, so your button presses translate to on-screen actions almost instantly.
Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) lets you send uncompressed, object-based audio like Dolby Atmos back to a soundbar or AV receiver over the same cable. This is essential for immersive 3D audio without needing a separate optical or analog connection.
Cable length, design, and durability
The 2-meter length is a deliberate choice. It gives you enough reach to connect the console to a TV mounted on a wall or a stand placed a few feet away, without leaving excess cable that needs to be coiled and hidden. This is the sweet spot for most living room setups.
The cable uses a flexible PVC jacket that bends easily around corners and behind entertainment centers. This flexibility reduces strain on the connectors, which is a common failure point on cheaper cables. The connectors themselves are gold-plated to resist corrosion and maintain a solid electrical connection over time.
Build quality is designed for reliable signal transmission at 48 Gbps. The internal twisted pairs are individually shielded, and the outer braid provides additional protection against electromagnetic interference from other devices like routers, power strips, or speaker wires. This ensures you won't experience random signal drops or flickering during intense gaming sessions.
When you might need a different HDMI 2.1 cable
The included cable works perfectly for the vast majority of setups, but there are specific scenarios where you'll need to buy a replacement. If your TV or projector is more than 2 meters away from where the console sits, the included cable simply won't reach. This is common with ceiling-mounted projectors or wall-mounted TVs where the console is on a lower shelf.
Another scenario is if you need to route the cable through walls or conduit. A 2-meter cable is too short for in-wall installation, and you'll need a longer certified cable that can be run through the wall cavity. Some users also prefer a right-angle connector on one end to fit into a tight space behind a wall-mounted TV, which the included straight connector can't do.
When you need a replacement, look for these three things:
- Ultra High Speed certification label, This guarantees the cable has been tested to meet HDMI 2.1's 48 Gbps bandwidth. Avoid cables that only say "HDMI 2.1 compatible" without the official certification logo, as they may not actually support the full bandwidth.
- Length that matches your needs, For runs under 5 meters, most certified cables work fine. For longer runs (5-15 meters), consider an optical HDMI cable or one with a built-in signal booster, as copper cables can degrade signal quality at longer lengths.
- Reputable brand, Stick with brands that specialize in AV cables and have a track record of passing certification tests. Cheap unbranded cables often fail to deliver the promised bandwidth, causing flickering or reduced resolution.
If you're setting up a projector that's 4-5 meters away from the console, an optical Ultra High Speed HDMI cable is your best bet. It uses fiber optics to transmit the signal, which is immune to electromagnetic interference and can carry 48 Gbps over much longer distances than copper.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use an old HDMI cable with Xbox Series X?
Yes, but you'll be limited to HDMI 2.0 capabilities. This means you can still get 4K at 60Hz and HDR, but you won't be able to use 4K at 120Hz, VRR, or ALLM. The console will automatically detect the cable's capability and adjust its output accordingly. For casual gaming on a 60Hz TV, an old cable works fine, but you're leaving performance on the table.
Is the included cable good enough for 120fps gaming?
Yes, absolutely. The included Ultra High Speed cable is specifically designed to handle 4K at 120Hz with the full 48 Gbps bandwidth. It's the same spec that Microsoft recommends for the console's maximum performance. You don't need to upgrade unless you need a longer cable or a different connector type.
Does the Xbox Series X cable support Dolby Vision?
Yes, the cable supports Dolby Vision passthrough, which is a dynamic HDR format. This means games and media that use Dolby Vision will display with the full benefits of scene-by-scene brightness and color grading, provided your TV also supports Dolby Vision.
What happens if I use a non-certified HDMI 2.1 cable?
You may experience issues like screen flickering, random blackouts, or the console automatically dropping to lower resolutions or refresh rates. Non-certified cables often can't sustain the 48 Gbps bandwidth, especially at longer lengths, so the connection becomes unstable. Always look for the Ultra High Speed certification label to avoid these problems.
Can I use the included cable with a PC or other devices?
Yes, the cable is a standard HDMI 2.1 cable, so it works with any device that has an HDMI output. You can use it with a gaming PC, a PS5, a 4K Blu-ray player, or a streaming device. It's a universal cable, not locked to the Xbox.
Is the included cable compatible with older HDMI ports?
Yes, HDMI is backward compatible. The cable will work with HDMI 1.4, 2.0, or any older port, but it will only deliver the maximum capabilities that the older port supports. For example, plugging it into an HDMI 2.0 port will give you 4K at 60Hz, but not 120Hz or VRR.
The included cable is genuinely all you need for a standard TV setup. The only reason to buy another one is for a longer run, a different connector orientation, or a specific aesthetic preference like a braided exterior. For everything else, the cable Microsoft packs in the box is exactly the right tool for the job.
