













Kyle Orland



Kyle Orland











Kyle Orland



Sam Machkovech

Sam Machkovech

Sam Machkovech

Sam Machkovech

The Xbox One X has arrived at Ars Technica's Orbiting HQ, and we can't wait to dive in to see just how Microsoft's console looks in 4K (once all the games we're testing finish downloading, that is). For now, we're allowed to show and tell you about how the system looks, feels, and smells out of the box (it smells like plastic).

The most striking thing about the physical machine itself is just how dense it is. Despite being much smaller in volume than the 2013 edition of the Xbox One, the system is noticeably heavier: roughly eight pounds by our reckoning, compared to seven pounds for the original Xbox One and about six pounds for the One S. This isn't likely to be a major issue if the system is just sitting in your entertainment center, but it speaks to just how much hardware is being crammed into that box.

We also appreciate one design revision that hasn't gotten much play since the One X's E3 debut —namely, that the touch-sensitive power button has been replaced with a more standard, pressable spring-loaded button (which still lights up when powered on). No more accidentally turning on the system when you graze the front lightly with a finger. Yes, this is also present on the Xbox One S , but if you've been waiting for a more significant upgrade, this is a nice bonus.

We'll have more details of how the Xbox One X actually affects the gaming experience soon. For now, enjoy these shots.

Listing image by Kyle Orland