Playing CDs on Xbox: What Works, What Doesn’t
You are not the only one who has ever tried to play CD on Xbox and wondered why it doesn't work. Many people are confused about what can be played and what cannot be played on Xbox. Xbox is good for watching games and videos, but it doesn't work like an old device when it comes to CDs. This article clearly explains what formats are supported, what doesn't work, and how you can you play CD on Xbox one by converting.
Part 1: Does Xbox Support CD Playback Anymore?
Simply put, Xbox no longer supports audio CDs or CD-ROMs. Older versions like Xbox and Xbox 360 could play CDs. However, new models such as Xbox One, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X do not support CD playback by default. Microsoft is away from CD and focuses on app and file streaming. Can you play cd on Xbox with a pin like a traditional CD player or an old game machine.
In short:- Xbox One, Series X, and Series S do not support audio CDs.
- You cannot insert a music CD to play directly.
- The Xbox console is now designed for file-based and streaming entertainment.
Part 2: What Kind of Media Can You Play on Xbox?
Can you play CD on Xbox 360 even if Xbox does not support physical CDs. Let's see what works and what doesn't.

Media formats supported by Xbox
Xbox supports the following file formats:
- Video: MP4, WMV, AVI
- Audio: MP3, AAC, WMA
You can play with these formats:
- USB Flash Drive (Connect to Xbox)
- Streaming apps like Spotify, YouTube, Plex
- Media server from PC via DLNA
Here's how Xbox reads files:
- When the media file is copied to the USB drive and connected to the Xbox, the game machine scans and displays playable files in the Media Player app.
- The streaming app allows you to access content online or from your local network.
Things that cannot be used
- Physical audio CD: Xbox can no longer load.
- CD-ROM: Xbox does not recognize even if it contains MP3 or video.
- DVD-R with audio file: There is an outlier and it is not reliable.
Part 3: Best Way to Convert CD Content for Xbox Playback
The good news is that you can listen to CD music on Xbox. Just convert CD files to Xbox supported formats such as MP3 and MP4 and copy them to USB drive. Let me explain the best tool for that:
1. HitPaw Univd Converter
Many Xbox users are puzzled that CDs do not work on game consoles. New Xbox models like Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S no longer support audio CDs. However, this does not mean that music collections are wasted. With simple tools like HitPaw Univd Converter, you can easily convert CD files to formats like MP3 and MP4 that Xbox can play. This article explains what types of media Xbox supports, what doesn't work, and how HitPaw Univd can help you enjoy your CD again without any problems.
Watch this video and know moreKey Features of HitPaw Univd Converter
- 120X AI Video Converter for videos, music, and images.
- Improve video quality up to 4k easily with one click.
- Cut, combine and crop videos in the lossless video editor.
- Compress video and photos to various sizes without dropping image quality.
- Expand your creative capabilities with built-in smart AI tools.
2. VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player is a free tool that many people use to watch videos, but you can also convert CD to MP3 and other formats. Suitable for users who have no resistance to extra settings or steps. VLC supports many file types and does not cost much. However, it is not easy for beginners. If you are not used to media conversion, you may be confused in a few steps. Still, if you want a free option with many controls, VLC can do the job.

Pros
- Free and open-source
- Can convert and rip CDs
- Supports many formats
Cons
- Not beginner-friendly
- Complicated interface
- Some features require manual setup
3. Freemake Audio Converter
Freemake Audio Converter is a simple tool that allows you to convert CD music to files such as MP3 supported by Xbox. It is easy to understand with a clean layout. No professional knowledge is required. The free version covers the basics but has some limitations. You may also be required to install extra ones, so read each step carefully. Still, for quick CD conversion, it accomplishes the job.

Pros
- Easy to use
- Converts to MP3 and other Xbox-compatible formats
- Clean interface
Cons
- Limited formats in the free version
- May install extra software unless you uncheck options
4. Windows Media Player
Windows Media Player is available on most Windows computers, so you don't need to download anything extra. One of the easiest ways to convert CD to MP3 file. Simply insert the CD and click a few buttons to save the music to your computer. This tool is basic, but it works well if you just need MP3. There is not much setting to change the sound quality, sometimes it does not detect old CDs. However, it works quickly and simply without problems to rip CDs.

Pros
- Comes pre-installed on Windows
- Simple CD ripping
- Direct MP3 output
Cons
- Limited control over quality settings
- May not detect some CDs
Part 4: How to Use HitPaw Univd to Convert CD Files
Step 1: Upload VideosLaunch HitPaw Univd and upload your videos by clicking "Add Video" or dragging files directly into the interface. Once uploaded, the files will appear in a queue.

Step 2: Customize Metadata (Optional)
Enhance your videos by editing metadata. Click on the file name or use the icons to modify details such as title, artist, or description for better categorization.

Step 3: Integrate Subtitles
Add subtitles to your video if needed. Click "Add Subtitles" and choose from supported formats like SRT or VTT. Embedded subtitles cannot be removed but external ones can be added easily.

Step 4: Configure Output Settings
Select an output format by clicking the icon next to the file. For multiple files, use "Convert all to" for batch processing. You can also adjust codec and quality settings.

Step 5: Begin Conversion
Choose where to save the files and click "Convert" to start. Enable hardware acceleration for faster processing and lossless quality.

Step 6: View Final Files
After conversion, open the "Converted" tab to access your files. You can locate them in the destination folder or re-edit as needed.

Part 5: FAQs About Can You Play CD on Xbox
Q1. Can you use an external CD/DVD drive with Xbox?
A1. No, Xbox does not support external CDs or DVD drives for playing audio CDs. Even if connected, the system cannot read it.
Q2. What formats should I use to make Xbox read my files?
A2. Use MP3 for audio and common formats such as MP4 and WMV for video. These are the best Xbox Media Player apps.
Q3. Is it legal to rip and convert CDs for personal use?
A3. Yes, it is legal in most countries if you convert CDs, you own only for personal use. It is forbidden to share or sell converted files.
Conclusion
Xbox may not be able to play CD anymore, but that doesn't mean the CD collection is wasted. Can you play cd on Xbox by converting CD s to formats suitable for Xbox like MP3 and MP4. The best way to do this is to use HitPaw Univd Converter. Easy to use, get good results and work well with Xbox. If you are worried about how to enjoy old CDs again, this method is simple and effective. Just convert, copy, and play. It is very easy.
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Daniel Walker
Editor-in-Chief
My passion lies in bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and everyday creativity. With years of hands-on experience, I create content that not only informs but inspires our audience to embrace digital tools confidently.
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