While users do not have the ability to upgrade the internal storage of their XB1 consoles, the device is compatible with a myriad of external hard drives. They can be used for unused file storage, though when properly formatted, games can be played directly from the external drive.

In some cases, this can help cut down on loading times as the USB 3.0 connection is able to transmit data at a faster rate than the internal HD.

Selecting a Storage Upgrade

In order to successfully upgrade the storage capacity of the Xbox One, there are several requirements that need to be met:

USB 3.0 connection
256GB minimum storage space.
5400RPM drive speed.
We tested a number of supported hard drives. See: our selection of the best performing Xbox One hard drive.

Installing the External Storage Unit

. Once an acceptable hard drive has been selected, the installation / setup process is fairly simple.

STEP ONE
Power on the Xbox One and plug the external storage device into one of the three USB 3.0 ports located on the console.

STEP TWO
Once the drive is connected, a notification should appear on the Xbox screen. Press the Menu button to proceed to the setup screen, or select it manually by navigating to:

Settings > System > Manage Storage

STEP THREE
Select the external drive and scroll down to the Format for Games & Apps option and press A.

After the storage device is successfully formatted, power off and restart the Xbox One. This is not a required step, but it is recommended.

Once the XB1 restarts, the total sum of available space (between both the internal and external drives) should be displayed on the Games and Apps screen. You can now install games, apps and all of your other content to either the internal or external storage devices on your Xbox One.