Original Xbox FAQ
What is the best original Xbox version?
The Hardware
First of all, you need to know what, how, and why the original Xbox differs by version. There are multiple versions that were released and they are labeled as versions 1.0, 1.1, 1.2-1.3, 1.4-1.5, 1.6, and 1.6b. Versions 1.2 and 1.3 are nearly identical and are treated as the same thing for our purposes. The same applies to versions 1.4 and 1.5. Version 1.6 had a slight revision which is called 1.6b, when it comes to modding and repairs, these can and do need to be differentiated from each other. However, the 1.6 differences matter very little when deciding which version is the best.
One quick thing you may want to consider is learning how to identify what version you have or are buying. There are a lot of tutorials out there trying to use the MFG dates and serial numbers but this is highly inaccurate. For that reason you may want to check out another frequently asked question I get, How to find your Original Xbox version.
Something to keep in mind, this is a subjective list, depending on what you want to do with your original Xbox console. Some features and needs may be more important to you based on what your goal is. This is merely a collection of information to help you understand the different features and limitations of each version. I will start with the worst version and end with what I feel is the best. So let's get started.
Versions 1.6 - 1.6b
Personally, I don't mind the 1.6 when I'm softmodding or using the console for a stock gaming system. Many people installing hard mods and working with advanced features HATE the original Xbox 1.6 versions. This is for good reason, the 1.6 did add some small adjustments that make modding a pain and all around more annoying. In some cases mods can be applied and installed correctly just to have random issues anyways. If you want to get hardcore, go ahead and avoid the 1.6 and 1.6b. Even though the 1.6 original Xbox versions are far from the best, there are a few benefits as well. Typically a 1.6 will have the best disc drives and are also the last version of the console. This means they have less wear and tear than the older versions. Lastly, the 1.6 versions do not have a clock cap, this is going to make working with the console a little easier. There are no clock caps waiting to burst, leak, and ruin your console.
Versions 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3
I've clumped these versions together as they are generally a bit similar when it comes to the best original Xbox version. While the 1.1 is much different than the 1.2 and 1.3, they are similar in how good they are. These versions are slightly better than the 1.6 because they are easier to mod and can have fewer headaches. They don't stand out for any reason either. They are the early to mid versions, so they will have more wear and tear. They come with slightly inferior parts. This includes the disc drives and power supply units. They don't have features giving them an advantage other than not having the downsides of the 1.6. If you own or buy any of these versions, there is nothing wrong with them. They are great to use. They just aren't the BEST version of the original Xbox console.
Version 1.0
While I don't feel the 1.0 is the best original Xbox version, it is a VERY close second. Only a few small
details hold it back from being the best. The 1.0 has some cool features you won't find in others that can make it a fun
console to modify and tinker with. The first being the extra fan. All original Xbox versions have an exhaust fan that work the
exact same. However, only the 1.0 has an extra fan that is attached to the GPU heatsink. This can add some interesting options
for modders. Some believe this keeps the console GPU chip cooler. I disagree with this, as the other revisions have a larger
and beefier heatsink on the GPU that provide ample cooling. What's cool, is the potential for using that power plug to install and
run a second cooling fan somewhere else in the console, such as a dedicated HDD cooling fan or a second exhaust fan. You could even
use it as a quick power source for other modifications.
Oddly enough, this fan is also why this isn't the best original Xbox
version. Having the second fan means the 1.0 runs louder, which is annoying for some. This GPU fan is also quite
feeble. Prolonged dust build up can break that fan down and cause issues. This includes loud noises, and total lack of cooling to the
GPU chip all together. This means performing regular cleanings is a must.
Lastly, what makes this one of the best
original Xbox versions is it's reliability. Rarely have I run into issues modifying a 1.0 original Xbox console. It was one
of the first cracked versions and is very easy to work with when it comes to soft and hard modding. For that reason this is pushed
a little higher up the list. I also find a lot fewer "catastrophic" failures on these motherboards. They just hold up better than
previously mentioned versions.
Versions 1.4 - 1.5
By far the best original Xbox version goes to the 1.4 - 1.5 revision. Surprisingly there are no fancy extras or features, it's just a more reliable version than the others. Being a newer version, you will typically have one of the better disc drives versions in the console. The PSU is one of the most reliable they ever made. I rarely see a version 1.4-1.5 that won't power on due to a bad power supply. Most importantly it has zero pitfalls. There are no issues with an extra fan. There are no differences in the hardware like the 1.0 and 1.6 versions. This is the highest tuned revision in my opinion. This uses the most efficient components. The only real issue is the clock cap remaining in this revision. I would still say this version is the best package both for modders as well as reliability. In simple terms, what makes this the best original Xbox version? It's the total package. Regardless of your goals and what you want to use the console for, it will benefit you better than the others. So modders, gamers, and collectors alike will get what they want with a 1.4-1.5 version.
In conclusion
Well there we have it, the 1.4 to 1.5 version is the all around better package. I wanted to break it down further as some of you may prefer a 1.6 due to its lack of a clock cap and new more reliable parts. Modders may want a 1.0 due to some of the unique features. Whatever you want to do I hope this breakdown can help you decide to what to get. Also, don't forget, if you aren't sure how to do so you can check this FAQ on How to find your Original Xbox version.
