The problem is that, unlike consoles from earlier generations, the Xbox 360 underwent two major revisions and also had a number of different models within each revision. It was confusing enough at the time, so it’s easy to understand how the sheer number of options could become overwhelming if all you want to do is pick up a used Xbox 360 off eBay or Craigslist. If you are looking to buy an Xbox 360, here are the three major hardware revisions, including some of the most important facts about each. Following this brief rundown, you’ll find some more in-depth information about each type of Xbox 360. Xbox 360
Available in Arcade, Core, Premium and Elite configurations. Earlier models don’t have HDMI outputs. Arcade model includes no hard drive.
Xbox 360 S
Comes with built-in Wi-Fi.Features either 4 or 250 GB of storage.Improved cooling to avoid overheating issues.
Xbox 360 E
No AV port for component video or digital optical connection for audio (HDMI only). Runs more quietly than previous versions. Redesigned to match the visual style of the Xbox One.
A/V cable (component, composite), HDMI (limited models) Kinect port - No, requires an adapter. Discontinued in 2010. The original Xbox 360 is the most complicated of the bunch because it was available in so many different configurations. The original options were the Core and Premium versions, and the main differences were that the Premium edition had more storage, an additional A/V cable, a wireless controller, and one free year of Xbox Live Gold. The Pro and Elite versions came later, and the sure way to find an Xbox 360 with an HDMI port is to buy an Elite. Other versions of the console may or may not include the HDMI port. While all versions of the original Xbox 360 are capable of playing all Xbox 360 games, older units are less reliable than newer ones. Later revisions of the hardware are less prone to the widespread red ring of death that can render an Xbox useless. The best way to find an Xbox 360 with the revised hardware is to look for one with a lot number higher than 0734.
A/V cable (component, composite), S/PDIF, HDMI Kinect port - Yes Discontinued in 2016. The Xbox 360 S is commonly referred to as the Xbox 360 Slim because it’s smaller, and thinner, than the original design. It also features improved cooling, with better air flow and more fans, to avoid the kind of overheating issues that plagued the original. Aside from the visual retooling, the Xbox 360 S also has some other important differences. It includes a built-in Kinect port, so you don’t need an adapter to use a Kinect. It also has an S/PDIF digital audio output in addition to the same A/V and HDMI connections as the original model. Unlike the many confusing configurations of the original model, the Xbox 360 S is only available in 4 GB and 250 GB versions. HDMI, 3.5mm Kinect port - Yes Discontinued in 2016, but the platform is still supported by Microsoft. The Xbox 360 E is an even more pared-down version of the Xbox 360 hardware. It’s slightly smaller than the Xbox 360 S, and it runs a little more quietly, but you can still play all the same games. In addition to a visual redesign, the Xbox 360 E also omits some connectors. The A/V connector found on the original Xbox 360 and Xbox 360 S is gone, as is the S/PDIF connector.
