How to Improve Xbox Series X Performance in 2026

Perhaps your Xbox Series X is acting a bit slow? Maybe your games aren’t loading as fast as they used to, or your online matches feel like they’re running on a hamster-wheel-powered internet. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here’s how you can improve the performance of your Xbox Series X performance in 2026, and make your gaming sessions enjoyable and free of frustration.

Takeaways

• Keep your Xbox Series X cool and updated for the best performance.
• Manage storage and network settings to avoid slowdowns.
• Use Performance Mode and close background apps for smoother gameplay.
• Join Xbox beta tests if you want to try out new features early.
• Restart your console—it works wonders!

1. Keep Your Console Cool

The Xbox Series X may be impressive but even superheroes deserve breaks. Be sure that it’s ventilated and not placed on a tight space near a candle, or an old stack of Xbox 360 cases. Clean it up periodically, and your console is due fresh air, too!

2. Update, Update, Update!

Staying current with Xbox console updates ensures your system is operating optimally. Microsoft regularly releases updates that improve performance, fix bugs, and even introduce new features we didn’t realize we required. So, don’t overlook the little notification for updates–it’s not just a gimmick.

3. Manage Your Storage

Have you run out of storage space? A full HDD can make your console slower than a novice player playing a competitive game. Remove games that you do not play and move them to an external SSD and free up space for future Xbox games. Don’t be fooled, your loading times will be rewarded.

4. Optimize Network Settings

Are you letting your leggedness ruin your winning streak? Check that there’s enough internet to complete the job. Make use of a wired connection whenever you can, or remove your router from that Wi-Fi Triangle. Keep in mind Xbox Live news for any server problems.

5. Enable Performance Mode

A lot of Xbox exclusive games include an “Performance Mode” that prioritizes frames per second over visuals. If you like smooth gameplay over shiny grass, change to this mode within the game’s settings.

6. Close Background Apps

It’s true that keeping too many applications that are running could make things slower. Be sure to check your Xbox apps and shut down everything you don’t use. The Xbox isn’t a multitasking machine, it’s a gaming machine!

7. Keep an Eye on Xbox Beta Tests

Do you want early access to brand new features and improvements? Join Xbox beta testing with The Xbox Insider Program. Remember, betas are called betas because of reasons, so expect to encounter some bugs to be found during the process.

8. Use Xbox Cloud Gaming Wisely

If your storage capacity is full, Xbox Cloud Gaming might be the perfect solution. Make sure that your internet is capable of handling it. Otherwise you’ll be playing at an amazing 244 p.

9. Stay Updated on Xbox Game Pass News

Xbox Game Pass updates often feature performance improvements and optimizations. It’s also important to know when Xbox games are coming out so that you can prepare your storage space for the game accordingly.

10. Restart Your Console (Seriously!)

If all else fails, switch it off and turn it back on. This is the standard IT fix and, honestly, it’s better than other methods. You should give your computer a break, it’s working hard for you!