Xbox One S vs X: Which Xbox Is Right for You?
Torn between the Xbox One S and the Xbox One X? You’re not alone! Choosing the right console can be tricky, especially when you’re looking for the best gaming experience without breaking the bank. This comparison dives deep into the key differences to help you make an informed decision.
The Xbox One S offered a significant upgrade over the original Xbox One, with a slimmer design and 4K video playback. However, the Xbox One X took things to a whole new level, boasting serious power and performance enhancements. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for gamers.
We’ll explore the specifications, performance, and overall value of both consoles. From graphics capabilities to price points, we’ll break down everything you need to know. Get ready to discover which Xbox reigns supreme for your gaming needs: the Xbox One S or the Xbox One X.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Xbox One S | Xbox One X |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Custom AMD 8-core APU | Custom AMD 8-core APU |
| GPU | AMD Radeon™ with 1.4 teraflops | AMD Radeon™ with 6 teraflops |
| RAM | 8GB GDDR3 | 12GB GDDR5 |
| Storage | 500GB, 1TB, or 2TB HDD | 1TB HDD |
| Optical Drive | 4K UHD Blu-ray | 4K UHD Blu-ray |
| Native Resolution | 1080p | 4K |
| HDR Support | Yes | Yes |
| Frame Rate | Up to 60fps | Up to 60fps |
| Dimensions | Slimmer Design | Larger Design |
| HDMI | HDMI 2.0 | HDMI 2.0 |
| USB Ports | 3 USB 3.0 ports | 3 USB 3.0 ports |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac dual band | 802.11ac dual band |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processing Power
- Xbox One S: Features an AMD Jaguar CPU and a GPU with 1.4 teraflops of processing power. It’s capable of playing games at 1080p resolution and offers a decent gaming experience, but can struggle with more demanding titles. It’s a more budget-friendly option.
- X: Boasts a more powerful AMD Jaguar CPU and a GPU with 6 teraflops of processing power. This allows for native 4K gaming and smoother performance, even in graphically intensive games. The increased processing power comes at a higher price point.
- Winner: X
Graphics Resolution
- Xbox One S: Primarily designed for 1080p gaming. While it can upscale some games to 4K, it doesn’t render them natively at that resolution. The visual fidelity is good, but not as sharp as the X.
- X: Designed for native 4K gaming, providing significantly sharper and more detailed visuals on a 4K TV. Games look stunning, with improved textures, lighting, and overall visual quality.
- Winner: X
HDR Support
- Xbox One S: Supports HDR (High Dynamic Range), which enhances the color and contrast of games and movies, resulting in a more vibrant and realistic picture on compatible displays.
- X: Also supports HDR, offering the same benefits as the S in terms of color and contrast enhancement. HDR implementation is consistent across both consoles.
- Winner: Tie
Disc Drive
- Xbox One S: Includes a 4K UHD Blu-ray drive, allowing users to watch 4K movies and play games on physical discs.
- X: Also includes a 4K UHD Blu-ray drive, offering the same disc playback capabilities as the S.
- Winner: Tie
Storage
- Xbox One S: Comes with a standard hard drive, typically 1TB or smaller. Storage can fill up quickly with game installations, requiring users to manage their library or purchase an external hard drive.
- X: Offers a standard hard drive, typically 1TB or larger. Storage capacity is the same, but the larger drive helps.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Xbox One S: Generally costs less than the Xbox One X, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious gamers.
- X: Priced higher than the Xbox One S, reflecting its more advanced hardware and superior performance.
- Winner: S
Game Library
- Xbox One S: Has access to the same game library as the Xbox One X. Both consoles can play all Xbox One games.
- X: Has access to the same game library as the Xbox One S. Both consoles can play all Xbox One games, and the X often has enhanced versions of games.
- Winner: Tie
Dimensions and Design
- Xbox One S: Smaller and more compact than the original Xbox One, with a sleeker design. It’s also more energy-efficient.
- X: Slightly larger than the Xbox One S, but still relatively compact. It features a more powerful cooling system to manage the increased heat generated by its more powerful components.
- Winner: S
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Graphics Performance | Xbox One X |
| Processing Power | Xbox One X |
| Storage | Tie (depending on One S configuration) |
| Price | Xbox One S |
| 4K Blu-ray Player | Tie |
| Overall Value | Xbox One S |
What They Have in Common:
- Game Library: Both consoles share the same extensive library of Xbox One games, including backward compatibility with many Xbox 360 and original Xbox titles.
- Xbox Live Services: Both systems provide access to Xbox Live, allowing for online multiplayer gaming, access to digital content, and use of streaming services.
- Controller Compatibility: Both consoles use the same Xbox Wireless Controller, ensuring a consistent gaming experience and controller compatibility.
- Hdr Support: Both the Xbox One S and Xbox One X support High Dynamic Range (HDR) for enhanced visuals in compatible games and media.
- 4K Blu-Ray Player: Both consoles include a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray disc player for watching movies in stunning detail.
Xbox One S Vs X Buying Guide
Performance and Graphics
The Xbox One S offers a solid gaming experience with improved visuals over the original Xbox One. It supports HDR for enhanced colors and contrast, making games look more vibrant. However, the Xbox One X takes performance to another level. It boasts significantly more processing power, enabling native 4K gaming and smoother frame rates, especially in graphically demanding titles. The difference is noticeable, particularly on a 4K display, where the X offers a far superior visual experience, with more detail and clarity.
The Xbox One X’s superior processing power also leads to faster loading times and improved overall responsiveness. Games often load quicker and perform better on the X, contributing to a more seamless and immersive gaming experience. If you prioritize visual fidelity and smooth gameplay, the Xbox One X is the clear winner in this category. For those without a 4K TV, the One S still provides a good experience, with benefits like HDR.
Price and Value
The Xbox One S is generally the more affordable option, making it a great choice for budget-conscious gamers. Its lower price point makes it accessible to a wider audience, and it still offers a compelling gaming experience. The value proposition is strong, especially considering its HDR support and built-in 4K Blu-ray player. The Xbox One X, being the more powerful console, comes with a higher price tag. This reflects its advanced features and superior performance, particularly in 4K resolution.
While the initial cost is higher, the Xbox One X represents a significant investment in a premium gaming experience. When considering value, it comes down to individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for the best possible experience and have the budget for it, the Xbox One X offers excellent value for its performance. If budget is a constraint, the One S is still a solid choice that provides great value.
Game Library and Compatibility
Both the Xbox One S and Xbox One X share the same extensive game library. They are fully compatible with all Xbox One games, meaning you can play the same titles on either console. Xbox Game Pass provides access to a vast library of games for a monthly subscription fee, which is available on both consoles. This offers exceptional value for gamers looking for a wide variety of games to play.
The primary difference lies in how those games are experienced. The Xbox One X often features enhanced versions of games, with higher resolutions, improved textures, and smoother frame rates. This means that while you can play the same games, the experience will be superior on the Xbox One X. However, the Xbox One S still offers access to the entire Xbox One game library and is a great option for enjoying those games.
Storage and Features
Both consoles come with varying storage options, typically starting at 500GB or 1TB for the Xbox One S and similar options for the X. Storage can be expanded on both consoles via external hard drives, providing ample space for games and other media. The Xbox One S has a built-in 4K Blu-ray player, a feature absent from the original Xbox One, enhancing its multimedia capabilities.
The Xbox One X, with its superior processing power, offers faster loading times and improved responsiveness in general. While both consoles have the same core features, the Xbox One X offers a more refined and optimized experience. Consider your storage needs and the importance of features like a 4K Blu-ray player when making your decision.
Design and Size
The Xbox One S boasts a sleeker and more compact design compared to the original Xbox One. It’s significantly smaller and more aesthetically pleasing, making it easier to integrate into your entertainment setup. The white color scheme adds a modern touch. The Xbox One X, while powerful, is still relatively compact and well-designed, but it is larger than the One S.
The design differences are more about aesthetics and space constraints. The Xbox One S’s smaller size is a benefit for those with limited space. Both consoles have a clean, modern design. The Xbox One X is slightly larger but still fits well in most entertainment centers. The design is less of a deciding factor than the performance capabilities.
Connectivity and Accessories
Both consoles offer a similar range of connectivity options, including HDMI ports for video and audio output, USB ports for connecting accessories, and an Ethernet port for wired internet connections. Both consoles also support Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity. The Xbox One S and X are compatible with the same accessories, including controllers, headsets, and other peripherals.
The primary difference is the Xbox One X offers a slightly more advanced feature set, such as improved Wi-Fi capabilities. The Xbox One X boasts faster wireless speeds. The compatibility with accessories ensures that your existing Xbox One peripherals will work seamlessly with either console. Both consoles provide a wide range of options for connecting to your TV and other devices.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Xbox One S If…
- You’re on a budget and want an affordable entry point into the Xbox ecosystem.
- You primarily play games on a 1080p TV and don’t need the extra power of the Xbox One X.
- You want a console that is smaller and more aesthetically pleasing.
- You are looking for a console that includes a 4K Blu-ray player.
Buy Xbox One X If…
- You want the best possible gaming experience on a 4K TV with enhanced visuals and faster loading times.
- You prioritize graphical fidelity and performance, and want games to look and run at their best.
- You want access to the enhanced features and performance improvements in Xbox One X enhanced games.
- You are willing to pay a premium for the best possible Xbox console experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Xbox One S and the Xbox One X?
The Xbox One X offers superior performance, with native 4K gaming, faster processing, and improved visuals. The Xbox One S offers a more affordable entry point, supporting HDR, but at a lower resolution. The X is significantly more powerful. The main difference lies in the graphical capabilities and processing power.
Does the Xbox One S play 4K games?
No, the Xbox One S does not play games in native 4K resolution. However, it does support HDR (High Dynamic Range) for improved colors and contrast. The Xbox One S upscales games to 4K. While it doesn’t render at 4K, it can output a 4K signal.
Does the Xbox One X require a 4K TV?
While the Xbox One X benefits most from a 4K TV, it doesn’t require one. You can still play games on a 1080p TV, and the Xbox One X will downscale the image, often resulting in improved textures and smoother frame rates. The X will still provide a better experience.
Are Xbox One games compatible with both consoles?
Yes, all Xbox One games are fully compatible with both the Xbox One S and the Xbox One X. The Xbox One X often features enhanced versions of games, with higher resolutions and improved graphics. You can play your existing games on either console.
What is HDR and why is it important?
HDR (High Dynamic Range) enhances the colors and contrast in games, making them look more vibrant and realistic. It provides a wider range of colors and deeper blacks. It’s an important feature for improving the visual quality of games. Both the S and X support HDR.
Which console is better for budget gamers?
The Xbox One S is the better choice for budget-conscious gamers. It offers a more affordable price point while still providing access to the entire Xbox One game library and supporting HDR. It’s a great value for the price. The S is the more budget-friendly option.
Can I use my existing Xbox One accessories on the Xbox One X or S?
Yes, all your existing Xbox One accessories, including controllers, headsets, and other peripherals, are compatible with both the Xbox One S and the Xbox One X. This ensures a seamless transition without having to purchase new accessories. Your existing accessories will work just fine.
Final Verdict
The Xbox One X offers a significantly more powerful gaming experience with native 4K gaming and enhanced visuals, making it the superior choice for gamers prioritizing performance. The Xbox One S is a more budget-friendly option, still providing access to the full game library and supporting HDR. While both consoles are great, the Xbox One X’s superior performance sets it apart.
Winner: Xbox One X