Microsoft · Released · First generation introduced 2001

Original Xbox

The original Xbox is Microsoft’s 2001 disc-based home console. It is a different platform from Xbox 360, Xbox One and Xbox Series systems. Its large X-shaped upper case and front controller ports are useful visual identifiers, but the rear label is the better starting point for a purchase.

By Tulasiram Pemmadi · Research updated 25 October 2026 · Research guide, not a hands-on review
Original Xbox hardware shown in the reference photograph
Original Xbox hardware shown in the reference photograph. Xbox-Console-Set.png by Evan-Amos. Public domain. Resized and converted to WebP; no hardware features altered.

Hardware at a glance

Generation
Original Xbox, not Xbox One
Media
DVD game discs
Storage
Internal hard drive

Family-level details. Check the exact model before assuming that a feature is shared across revisions.

Identifying the first Xbox

The original Xbox is Microsoft’s 2001 disc-based home console. It is a different platform from Xbox 360, Xbox One and Xbox Series systems. Its large X-shaped upper case and front controller ports are useful visual identifiers, but the rear label is the better starting point for a purchase.

Games and controllers

Buy software intended for the original Xbox and check its regional compatibility with the console being offered. The reference photograph shows a Controller S; it does not establish that every regional launch package included that controller. Ask which controller and breakaway cable are included, and test every analogue stick, trigger and memory-unit connection relevant to your setup.

Original versus modified hardware

A larger replacement hard drive, custom dashboard or replacement shell changes the item being offered. Ask the seller to disclose modifications and to demonstrate startup and disc loading. Avoid assuming that a long installed-game list transfers any software licence. For collecting, retain photographs of the labels, seals, motherboard repair history and box before purchase.

Condition checks

An old console should be tested from cold, then while running a game. Listen for disc-drive grinding, check the tray mechanism, and ask about leaking capacitors or previous board repairs. Internal work should be handled by a competent repairer. Match the power requirement on the rear label to your country; a plug adapter alone does not change voltage.

Halo edition scope

Microsoft announced a green Halo Special Edition package for the United States in April 2004. The announcement described 200,000 boxed sets, a matching branded controller and Halo. That quantity is the announcement’s package scope, not a verified worldwide total for every green Xbox release.

Model and edition registry

Documented variants below; worldwide collector coverage remains incomplete.

Standard black Xbox

Model

Original retail hardware; regional labels and package contents differ.

Region: Check individual unitReference

Halo Special Edition

Limited edition

Green console, matching Halo-branded controller and game in the documented US package.

Region: United StatesReference

Model details and evidence

Documented Halo package scope

The quantity belongs to the stated American package, not all green Xbox systems worldwide. Controller S is shown in the family reference photograph, but controller inclusion changed across markets and packages. The original label and regional announcement are stronger evidence than colour alone.

US Halo package announcement
2 April 2004
Announced boxed quantity
200,000 for that offer
Included items
Green console, matching branded controller and Halo

Supporting documentation

GTA editions to check for this hardware

These links match the release-platform labels in our GTA catalogue. Open the game guide for its edition and sources. This is not a complete backwards-compatibility list or a guarantee of current store availability.

Buying used or imported hardware: inspection, package and region checklist →

Sources and corrections

Images identify the pictured hardware; they are not evidence for every variant listed. Missing regional SKUs and undocumented editions remain outside this guide. Send a correction with a source.

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