Are you ready to dive into the world of Xbox consoles? Choosing the right one can be a challenge, especially when comparing models like the original Xbox One and the sleek Xbox One S. Both consoles offer access to a vast library of games, but their features and performance levels differ significantly.
The Xbox One was Microsoft’s initial entry into the eighth generation of video game consoles. It set the stage for the Xbox ecosystem. Then came the Xbox One S, a refined and more compact version.
This comparison will break down the key differences between the Xbox One and Xbox One S, helping you make an informed decision based on your gaming needs and budget. We’ll explore design, performance, and features to give you a clear understanding of what each console offers.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Xbox One | Xbox One S |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Custom 8-core AMD Jaguar | Custom 8-core AMD Jaguar |
| GPU | AMD Radeon | AMD Radeon |
| RAM | 8GB DDR3 | 8GB DDR3 |
| Storage Options | 500GB, 1TB | 500GB, 1TB, 2TB |
| Disc Drive | Blu-ray | 4K UHD Blu-ray |
| Video Output | 1080p | 4K Video Streaming, HDR |
| HDR Support | No | Yes |
| USB Ports | 3 | 3 |
| Power Supply | Internal | Internal |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11n | 802.11ac |
| Dimensions (approx.) | 13.5 x 10.5 x 3.5 inches | 11.6 x 8.9 x 2.5 inches |
| Power Consumption | Varies | Varies |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processing Power (CPU/GPU)
- Xbox One: Features an AMD Jaguar CPU and an AMD Radeon GPU, providing a solid gaming experience for its time. However, it can struggle with newer, more demanding titles, leading to lower frame rates and graphical fidelity.
- Xbox One S: While the CPU remains the same as the original Xbox One, the GPU is slightly upgraded, offering a modest performance boost. This results in generally smoother gameplay and slightly improved visuals compared to the original, but still falls short of more powerful consoles.
- Winner: xbox one s
Video Output Resolution
- Xbox One: Outputs games at a maximum resolution of 1080p. Some games may dynamically scale down to maintain performance.
- Xbox One S: Supports 4K video playback for movies and streaming, and can upscale games to 4K. This provides a sharper picture for media consumption.
- Winner: xbox one s
HDR Support
- Xbox One: Does not support High Dynamic Range (HDR) for gaming or video.
- Xbox One S: Offers HDR support for both gaming and video playback, providing a wider range of colors and improved contrast for a more vibrant and realistic picture.
- Winner: xbox one s
Storage
- Xbox One: Typically comes with 500GB or 1TB hard drive options. Storage can fill up quickly with game installations.
- Xbox One S: Available with 500GB, 1TB, or 2TB hard drive options. Provides more storage choices compared to the original Xbox One.
- Winner: xbox one s
Physical Design and Size
- Xbox One: A larger, bulkier console design. Its prominent size can take up more space in your entertainment setup.
- Xbox One S: Significantly smaller and more streamlined than the original Xbox One. It also features a built-in power supply, eliminating the need for a large external brick.
- Winner: xbox one s
Disc Drive
- Xbox One: Equipped with a standard Blu-ray disc drive for playing games and movies.
- Xbox One S: Also includes a Blu-ray disc drive, offering the same functionality as the original Xbox One.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Xbox One: Historically, the original Xbox One is now available at a lower price point, as it is the older model.
- Xbox One S: Typically priced higher than the original Xbox One, but offers improved features and performance for the added cost.
- Winner: xbox one s
Power Supply
- Xbox One: Includes a large, external power brick, which can be cumbersome and take up additional space.
- Xbox One S: Features an internal power supply, making it more compact and easier to integrate into your entertainment setup.
- Winner: xbox one s
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Design | Xbox One S |
| 4K Streaming | Xbox One S |
| HDR Support | Xbox One S |
| Game Library | Tie |
| Price | Xbox One |
| Disc Drive | Xbox One S |
| Wi-Fi | Xbox One S |
What They Have in Common:
- Game Library: Both consoles play the same library of Xbox One games, ensuring access to a vast selection of titles.
- Xbox Live: Both require an Xbox Live Gold subscription for online multiplayer gaming, providing access to exclusive deals and free games.
- Controller Compatibility: Both consoles are compatible with the same Xbox One controllers, allowing for seamless transitions.
- Digital Store: Both consoles can access the Xbox Store to purchase and download digital games, movies, and TV shows.
- Backward Compatibility: Both consoles support backward compatibility with a selection of Xbox 360 games.
Xbox One Vs Xbox One S Vs Xbox One X Buying Guide
Performance and Graphics
The Xbox One, the original console, offers a base level of performance suitable for gaming at 1080p resolution. It’s capable of running most games, but with limitations in graphical fidelity and frame rates compared to its successors. The Xbox One S provides a slight graphical boost, supporting High Dynamic Range (HDR) for improved color and contrast, enhancing visuals on compatible TVs. The Xbox One X, however, is a powerhouse, delivering native 4K gaming and significantly improved performance. It boasts a more powerful GPU and CPU, leading to smoother gameplay, higher frame rates, and stunning visual details, making it the top choice for performance.
Storage and Memory
The Xbox One and Xbox One S generally feature a 500GB or 1TB hard drive, offering decent storage for games and media. Storage can fill up quickly, especially with modern game sizes. The Xbox One X also offers 1TB of storage, but its enhanced processing capabilities allow for faster loading times in some games. While all three consoles support external hard drives, allowing you to expand your storage capacity, the speed of your external drive will impact loading times. Consider this when picking a drive. (See Also: Nest Cam Vs Ring )
Design and Size
The original Xbox One is a larger, bulkier console, often criticized for its size and somewhat dated design. The Xbox One S addressed this with a significantly smaller and sleeker design, making it more aesthetically pleasing and easier to fit into entertainment centers. The Xbox One X, while still compact, is slightly larger than the One S, but it packs a powerful punch within its casing. The One S also introduced a built-in power supply, whereas the original Xbox One had an external power brick, which was a nice improvement for the sleekness of the console and its placement in an entertainment unit.
Price and Value
The original Xbox One is generally the most affordable option, often found at lower prices in the used market. The Xbox One S, being a mid-range console, offers a good balance of performance and price. The Xbox One X, with its superior performance, is the most expensive of the three. Considering the price-to-performance ratio, all three consoles provide good value depending on your budget and desired gaming experience. If you are budget conscious, the Xbox One S offers the best value. The Xbox One X has the best performance, but at a higher price.
Game Library and Compatibility
All three consoles share the same game library, as they are all part of the Xbox One family. This means you can play the vast majority of games on any of them. However, games will often look and perform better on the Xbox One X due to its enhanced hardware. There are differences in the game libraries available, as some games were created for the Xbox Series X and S. Backwards compatibility is a key feature, allowing you to play games from previous Xbox generations on all three consoles, although the experience is again enhanced on the Xbox One X.
Features and Connectivity
All three consoles include a Blu-ray player, allowing you to watch movies. They also support Wi-Fi and have multiple USB ports for connecting accessories. The Xbox One S and Xbox One X add 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray playback, further enhancing their multimedia capabilities. The Xbox One X also includes enhanced connectivity options. All three consoles support HDR, but the quality of the HDR experience varies depending on the console and the TV. All offer the same basic online services and access to Xbox Live. (See Also: Lose It Vs Weight Watchers )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Xbox One If…
- You’re on a tight budget and want the most affordable option.
- You’re primarily interested in playing games and aren’t concerned with 4K resolution or HDR.
- You already own an Xbox One and are looking to add a second console.
- You don’t need the latest features and are satisfied with 1080p gaming.
Buy Xbox One S If…
- You want a more compact and streamlined design.
- You want to stream 4K video from services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
- You have a 4K TV and want to experience HDR gaming.
- You want a console with a built-in 4K Blu-ray player.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Xbox One and the Xbox One S?
The Xbox One S is a slimmer, more energy-efficient console with a built-in power supply, unlike the original Xbox One’s external brick. It also supports 4K video playback (streaming and Blu-ray) and HDR for improved visuals. The One S also offers a small performance boost, including improved graphics, and a slightly faster CPU clock speed, leading to better gaming experiences and picture quality. The One S is generally a better value than the original.
Does the Xbox One X play games at 4K?
Yes, the Xbox One X is capable of playing games at native 4K resolution, providing significantly sharper and more detailed visuals compared to the Xbox One and Xbox One S. Many games are optimized for the Xbox One X to take full advantage of its powerful hardware, offering enhanced graphics, textures, and smoother frame rates. While the One S can up-scale to 4K, the One X delivers true 4K.
Can I use the same games on all three consoles?
Yes, all games purchased for the Xbox One family are compatible with the Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X. This is a key feature, as it means you can upgrade your console without losing your game library. However, the performance and visual quality of the games will vary depending on the console. Enhanced games will look and play better on the Xbox One X.
What is HDR and why is it important?
HDR (High Dynamic Range) enhances the contrast and color range of images, resulting in more vibrant and realistic visuals. It allows for brighter highlights, deeper blacks, and a wider range of colors, creating a more immersive gaming and viewing experience. HDR support is available on the Xbox One S and Xbox One X, but the benefits are most noticeable on a compatible HDR-enabled TV or display. (See Also: Bose Quiet Comfort Vs Airpods Pro )
Which console is the best for media playback?
The Xbox One S and Xbox One X are the best options for media playback, as they support 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray discs, allowing you to watch movies in stunning 4K resolution. They also support 4K streaming from various platforms. While the original Xbox One has a Blu-ray player, it lacks the 4K capabilities of its successors. The One X has enhanced audio support for the best experience.
How does the Xbox One X compare to the Xbox Series X?
The Xbox Series X is a next-generation console that offers significantly improved performance compared to the Xbox One X, including faster processing speeds, more powerful graphics, and a larger storage capacity. While the Xbox One X is still a capable console, the Xbox Series X provides faster loading times, higher frame rates, and a wider range of advanced features, making it the superior choice for the best gaming experience.
Is the Xbox One X worth the upgrade from Xbox One S?
Whether the Xbox One X is worth the upgrade from the Xbox One S depends on your priorities. If you value the best possible graphics and performance, and have a 4K TV, then yes, the upgrade is definitely worth it. The Xbox One X offers a significant visual upgrade, especially for games optimized for the console. However, if you are happy with 1080p gaming and are on a budget, the Xbox One S is still a great console.
Final Verdict
The Xbox One X emerges as the clear winner in this comparison, offering the most powerful hardware and delivering the best gaming experience. While the Xbox One S provides a good balance of performance and value, and the original Xbox One remains a budget-friendly option, the Xbox One X’s superior graphics and processing power make it the top choice for gamers seeking the ultimate Xbox One experience.
Winner: Xbox One X