Many Americans have been saving their tax refunds to shell out for one of the most anticipated gaming systems of the year: the Xbox Series X. In fact, more than 119,853,012 refunds were made in 2017 alone and this year is no different. But in lieu of saving your refund for the Xbox Series X, you might want to put your money elsewhere for now. New reports have claimed that the newest console from Xbox has some serious problems with overheating.
The console has gained a big following thanks to parent company Microsoft’s transparency regarding the new product. Not only has the brand showcased its hardware in multiple previews, but they’ve also unveiled a slew of new titles and have even allowed video game journalists to try their hand at playing.
But clamor about the new console has come to a stop now that reports of overheating have made their way into the headlines. In fact, some sites are saying that it can get as hot as a fireplace.
While many early testers for the Xbox Series X have noted how hot the console can get, one journalist claims that the new gaming system burned his hand. Jeff Bakalar, the cohost for Giant Bomb, explained that the unit emitted serious levels of heat while it was in standby mode and burnt his hand live streaming when he touched the storage expansion.
The Series X has been equipped with top and rear vents to accommodate its large 130mm fan, which has gained praise from critics because it’s still able to remain quiet. But journalist, Ken Bogard, from Jeux Video had a different experience with the console.
“The Series X is hot, like really hot!” Bogard notes in a translated version of their original video. “It doesn’t make any noise, but damn it’s hot! The console is emitting heat like crazy. It’s almost like a fireplace shaft. You can heat up your flat with it.”
Think of your gaming console as a type of electronic workout. Just like people need regular rest after days of exercise, it’s important to give your console a break from near-constant playing. If your console runs hot for too long, it has the potential to fry the circuit boards and ruin your system.
That being said, it’s not uncommon for gaming consoles (and every other electronic in your life) to get hot. That’s why it’s important to clean your console regularly and station it in a safe place where it can cool properly, like on a flat, open surface.
Video Game Chronicle goes on to note that Bogard experienced the intense heat on the pre-released console while navigating the menu and playing backward compatible games. It’s worth noting that these console previews are not going to be released en masse. The hardware is associated with the pre-release technology so we’re likely going to see further changes in the Xbox Series X as the actual release date gets closer.
Whether you get the new Xbox console or not is up to you. Regardless, it’s important to continue to engage in healthy habits when you’re wrapped up in playing your new games. Taking a dip in the pool and remembering to eat healthy foods will give you the energy you need to stay up and beat your friends in Call of Duty.
