Why Get a Hard Drive for Xbox 360? Benefits & Recommendation

A hard drive isn't strictly required, but it dramatically improves the experience:

Benefits

• Faster loading: Games installed to HDD load much quicker than from disc
• More storage: Save games, downloaded titles, demos, DLC, music, videos, screenshots
• Digital purchases: Buy/download full games from Xbox Live Marketplace (no disc needed)
• Required features: Some apps (Netflix, etc. historically), Kinect, and Xbox Live Marketplace need a HDD
• Disc preservation: Less wear on discs and drive laser
• Easier management: Organize content in one place vs. swapping discs

Bottom Line

Highly recommended. Even a 20 GB or 60 GB drive (older models) or 250/320/500 GB (Slim/E) makes a huge difference.