Microsoft Xbox One Kinect Sensor Review: Conditional Buy
Starting at a stunning 9.07/10 overall satisfaction, the Microsoft Xbox One Kinect Sensor Bar (Renewed) still manages to capture loyalty years after its discontinuation. From living rooms turned dance studios to hands-free Netflix marathons, users describe it as “so fun and keeps the kids from becoming video game zombies” (Reddit user quote). But behind the glowing praise lies a story of space-hungry setup requirements, adapter headaches, and troubling failure rates.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Motion tracking is responsive and accurate | Requires separate adapter for Xbox One S/X models |
| Voice control adds convenience for navigation and apps | Discontinued – limited new game support |
| Works well with refurbished units when properly tested | Bulky — demands significant space for setup |
| Great for multiplayer fun (up to 6 players tracked) | Failure rates reported within months by some users |
| Integrates with Skype and Twitch for HD video calls | Compatibility limitations for newer consoles |
| Versatile — gaming, media control, PC 3D scanning | Some units arrive non-functional or missing cords |
| Affordable compared to launch prices | Resale units vary widely in condition |
Claims vs Reality
Microsoft marketed the Kinect as “you are the controller,” promising seamless voice, gesture, and motion integration across Xbox games and apps. For active gamers, the claim holds weight — Reddit user feedback notes, “motion sensing is great and the mic is good for mic commands and other uses.” This especially benefits dance game fans who prefer not holding a phone for tracking, such as in Just Dance.
Another major claim is its ability to integrate with entertainment systems and Skype. Verified buyers mention using it to automatically turn on projectors and sound systems with “Xbox on” commands, a boon for home theater setups. However, several Amazon reviewers stress that it’s not plug-and-play, especially on PC, requiring driver installs and sometimes obscure legacy drivers from 2016 to function for 3D scanning.
Microsoft positioned this device as future-forward — but users found limitations for newer console generations. While marketed as compatible with every Xbox One, actual owners point out the need for a costly adapter for Xbox One S and X, creating unexpected expenses. One Walmart reviewer bluntly stated, “Would have been nice to know you have to purchase a power adapter separately.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Active households benefit most from the Kinect’s responsive motion tracking. One Amazon buyer exclaimed, “Fruit Ninja is a favorite of ours as well as river adventure game… fun for all ages.” Multiplayer capability — tracking up to six people — brings party-like excitement. A Reddit user shared, “If the coronavirus stuff ever blows over, my child can dance with friends,” highlighting its appeal for group play.
Voice control emerges as a standout convenience in universal praise. GameFAQs contributors mention how it transforms tasks like navigating Netflix, raising TV volume, or pausing a movie mid-project without lifting a controller. For physically limited users or those multitasking, it’s a hands-free gateway into the Xbox ecosystem.
The renewed units often surprise buyers with quality. Many describe them as “like brand new” despite lacking original packaging. A Trustpilot review called it “a must-have accessory… works great like brand new,” showing that refurbishment can deliver genuine value when done right.
Common Complaints
Unfortunately, not all refurbishment stories end positively. Amazon customers report DOA (dead-on-arrival) units requiring returns, sometimes twice in a row. “I was sent a unit that wouldn’t power on… another [replacement] also didn’t work,” one frustrated buyer recounted.
Space requirements prove another sore point. Hacker News users explain the necessity of rearranging furniture every time due to Kinect’s need for a wide, clear view, making it impractical for small apartments. When combined with its bulkiness, these demands disproportionately affect urban gamers.
Compatibility issues drain enthusiasm. Owners of newer Xbox S/X consoles often discover too late the need for an adapter, costing $20–$50, and sometimes additional USB/Ethernet solutions for longer cable runs. Even on PC, adapters and setup complexity challenge less tech-savvy buyers, making plug-and-play promises feel hollow.
Divisive Features
Gesture control sits at the heart of divided opinion. While some find it “the fastest and most intuitive way to jump around apps and TV channels” (Walmart review), others admit they barely use the motion features, sticking almost exclusively to voice commands.
Use cases beyond gaming spark debate. A subset uses Kinect for PC-based 3D scanning, praising the hardware’s imaging depth but criticizing limited modern software support. For them, it’s valuable niche tech — but for traditional gamers, the focus on scanning or home automation may feel irrelevant.
Trust & Reliability
Patterns emerge suggesting durability concerns. Hacker News commenters report multiple units failing within 6–8 months despite infrequent use, with Microsoft refusing replacements for second failures. One warned: “Mine failed in less than 6 months… missed opportunity because MS wasn’t committed to improving it.”
Trustpilot and Amazon both present split realities: many renewed units perform flawlessly for years, while others fail fast. Buyers stress dealing directly with sellers offering solid return policies to mitigate risk.
Long-term stories from Reddit show refurbished units lasting “like new” for active play since Christmas 2019, indicating that when refurbishment quality is high, lifespan fears diminish. But mixed resale markets mean buyers can’t assume uniform quality.
Alternatives
Direct competitors are rarely mentioned, but Kinect’s voice control and spatial tracking had early parallels with Amazon Echo-like tech — yet without Echo’s simplicity. Community voices frame Kinect as “there much earlier… MS wasn’t as committed,” underscoring its missed potential compared to today’s smart speakers and VR motion controllers. For full-body gaming, modern VR systems offer more game support but share Kinect’s space challenges.
Price & Value
Amazon listings show renewed units around $64, sometimes dipping under $40 via finance plans — a sharp drop from launch retail near $199. Ebay markets units between $14 and $30 for tested devices, with broken “parts only” units under $13. Complete bundles with games reach $69.
Resale trends suggest that while demand remains niche, buyers willing to navigate adapter needs and test functionality can secure strong value. As one Trustpilot reviewer said, “Definitely worth the money… works as advertised” when bought renewed from credible sellers.
Buying tips from community chatter:
- Verify adapter inclusion for Xbox One S/X before purchase
- Seek sellers offering returns or warranties
- Expect variance in refurbishment quality across platforms
FAQ
Q: Does the Kinect work with Xbox Series X or S?
A: Not directly — you’ll need a separate Kinect adapter to connect it, which can cost $20–$50 and isn’t always included.
Q: How many players can the Kinect track simultaneously?
A: Up to six players, making it suitable for family or party gaming sessions.
Q: Can it be used with a PC for non-gaming purposes?
A: Yes, with an adapter and drivers it can be used for 3D scanning, though software support is limited.
Q: Are refurbished units reliable?
A: Many work “like brand new,” but stories of DOA units exist — buy from sellers with strong return policies.
Q: Is setup difficult?
A: For Xbox One, it’s straightforward. PC setup may involve manual driver installs and additional software downloads.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re an Xbox One user passionate about dance games, motion-based fitness, or voice-controlled entertainment. Avoid if you lack space or console compatibility (without adapters) or want a plug-and-play PC experience without technical hurdles. Pro tip from community: verify refurbishment quality and adapter inclusion before purchase to avoid cable chaos and extra costs.
