Xbox Series X boasts a number of impressive specs and functionality, but does it support ultrawide?
Ultrawide monitors are fast gaining popularity as amazing working and gaming displays, which are real statement pieces when it comes to home setups.
They allow far more visual real-estate to work on and when paired with some games they can add a whole new level of immersion unique to their 21:9 aspect ratio, despite some minor performance trade-offs.
So for those of you out there who either have an ultrawide setup or maybe looking for your next monitor upgrade, read on. Here's what you should consider if you're planning on using it for Xbox Series X.
Does Xbox Series X Support Ultrawide?
At this time, no, not in the way that you'd expect. Unfortunately, the Xbox Series X does not support ultrawide monitors and a 21:9 aspect ratio.
The main reason for this is that when the Series X was designed, it was expected to be used on 4K TVs with a standard aspect ratio of 16:9. The number of gamers using an ultrawide display was likely considered not to be large enough to warrant the feature being included.
But if you've got an ultrawide monitor, what are your options?
Well, first off you could play with black side-bars, which even on the best ultra-wide curved monitors won't look 'amazing' in our opinion.
You can also stretch the image, but again, this would be doing a bit of a disservice in some ways.
We'd say the best approach, is to consider upgrading your display.
click to enlargeWhat Monitors Work With Xbox Series X
So you'll find that many of the best gaming monitors work with Xbox Series X, including a number of awesome 1440p monitors too.
If you want to ensure you're getting the absolute most bang for your buck, browse some of the best HDMI 2.1 monitors so you'll be able to play in 4K and 120fps.
But if you want something that'll work just as well with your PC setup as it will your Xbox Series X or S, then we'd say go for a quality 1440p display, of which there are many amazing ones to choose from.
Brands like BenQ, Gigabyte, LG, Samsung, and many more have great QHD options to check out...and they're actually pretty affordable compared to their respective 4K displays.
When Will Xbox Series X Support Ultrawide?
We haven't heard anything yet, and we think it may be unlikely to happen, but not impossible if you look at the other side of the coin.
The PS5 has seen an internal SSD upgrade, and we think a 1440p mode may be on the cards in the future too.
But with ultrawide support certainly being more of a niche demand than the ability to play in QHD, we'll just have to wait and see.
For now, if you want to experience ultra-wide, you may have to opt for a PC, which could be more than worth it considering AAA titles like Horizon Zero Dawn, Red Dead Redemption II, and Death Stranding are all available in ultra-wide.