You’re setting up your console in a new room, but the power cord won’t quite reach the outlet. You spot the cable from your other console nearby, it looks identical. Can you just swap them? It’s a common question for anyone who owns both a PlayStation and an Xbox. The simple answer is often yes, but understanding the “why” and knowing the exceptions is crucial to keeping your hardware safe.
This guide will explain PlayStation Xbox power cable compatibility, covering which models use interchangeable cords, why this is possible and which consoles are the exceptions. We will demystify the standardized connectors that make this convenience possible and ensure you can power your consoles safely and effectively.
The Key: Internal vs. External Power Supplies
The reason many modern PlayStation and Xbox consoles can share power cables comes down to their internal design. Most recent consoles, including the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One S, Xbox One X and Xbox Series S/X, feature internal power supply units (PSUs).
This means the bulky “power brick” that converts high-voltage AC power from your wall outlet into low-voltage DC power for the console is built directly inside the machine’s chassis. As a result, the console only needs a simple cable to transfer AC power from the wall to its internal PSU. Because this is a standard electrical task, manufacturers often use standardized, off-the-shelf connectors.
Meet the Standard Connectors: IEC C7 and C13
The secret to console power cable compatibility lies in the use of standardized connectors designed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Two types are commonly found on game consoles.
The IEC C7 Power Cable (The “Figure-8”)
The most common connector on modern consoles is the IEC C7, often called a “Figure-8” cable due to its shape. This is a small, two-prong, non-polarized connector used on a wide range of consumer electronics.
You will find this type of PS power cord and Xbox cable on the following consoles:
- PlayStation 4 (all models: original, Slim, Pro)
- PlayStation 5 (both Disc and Digital editions)
- Xbox One S
- Xbox One X
- Xbox Series S
- Xbox Series X
Because all these consoles use the same C7 connector and have internal power supplies, their power cables are generally interchangeable power cords. A PS4 power cable will work perfectly fine with an Xbox Series X and an Xbox One S cable will work with a PS5.
The IEC C13 Power Cable (The “Kettle Lead”)
The IEC C13 is a larger, three-prong grounded connector that you might recognize from desktop computers, monitors and kitchen appliances. While less common on the latest consoles, it was used on some earlier models that also had internal power supplies.
Consoles that use the C13 connector include:
- The original “fat” PlayStation 3
- The original Xbox One (the large 2013 model)
While a C13 cable from a PS3 could power an original Xbox One, it would not be compatible with a PS5 or Xbox Series X, as the connector shape is completely different.
When Are PlayStation and Xbox Cables NOT Interchangeable?
While many modern consoles offer convenient compatibility, there are notable exceptions where you cannot swap cables. These exceptions almost always involve consoles with external power supplies.
The Xbox 360 and Original Xbox One Power Bricks
Microsoft’s Xbox 360 (all models) and the original 2013 Xbox One relied on massive external power bricks. These adapters were not just simple cables; they were custom-designed power supplies that converted AC to DC externally.
Each of these consoles used a proprietary connector and had specific voltage and amperage outputs. You could not use an Xbox 360 “fat” power brick on an Xbox 360 Slim, let alone on a PlayStation. In these cases, the entire power supply unit is specific to the console model and is not interchangeable in any way.
Regional Differences and Voltage
While the cables themselves might be physically interchangeable, you must still be mindful of regional voltage differences if you import a console. A console designed for North America (120V) will be damaged if you plug it into an Australian outlet (230V-240V) without a step-down transformer, even if the cable fits.
Fortunately, most modern consoles like the PS4, PS5 and recent Xbox models have universal power supplies. This means they can automatically adapt to different voltages. You would only need to swap the detachable power cord for one with the correct wall plug for your region, another benefit of using standardized interchangeable power cords.
Quality Still Matters
Just because the cables are standard, it doesn’t mean they are all created equal. A cheap, poorly made IEC C7 power cable might have thin wiring or inadequate insulation. While it may power your console, it could be a potential fire hazard or fail to deliver stable power, especially with powerful machines like the PS5 and Xbox Series X power cable requirements.
Always opt for a high-quality replacement cord that is certified for use in your region. For Australian gamers, sourcing a reliable replacement is straightforward. Campad Electronics has been supplying game console chargers and power cables to gamers throughout Australia for many years and has built a reputation for quality and value. They provide safe, compliant cables that you can trust with your expensive hardware.
Conclusion
So, do PlayStation and Xbox consoles use the same power cables? For most consoles released in the last decade, the answer is a resounding yes. Thanks to internal power supplies and the use of the standard IEC C7 “Figure-8” connector, you can safely swap the power cords between your PS4, PS5, Xbox One S/X and Xbox Series S/X.
The key is to identify whether your console has an internal power supply (and uses a simple cable) or an external power brick (which is not interchangeable). For the vast majority of modern gamers, this console power cable compatibility is a welcome convenience that simplifies managing your entertainment setup. If you ever find yourself in need of a replacement, you can confidently find a high-quality PS power cord or Xbox cable from a trusted source like Campad Electronics and get right back to gaming.