Xbox Series S vs X: Which Xbox Should You Buy?
Choosing the right gaming console can be a tough decision, especially when you’re faced with two powerhouses like the Xbox Series S and the Xbox Series X. Both offer access to the vast Xbox ecosystem, including Game Pass, but they come with significant differences that could sway your purchase.
This comparison aims to break down everything you need to know about the Xbox Series S vs X. We’ll delve into their performance, graphics capabilities, storage options, and overall value proposition. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which console best suits your gaming needs and budget.
Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for an affordable entry point or a hardcore enthusiast seeking the ultimate gaming experience, this guide will help you navigate the Xbox landscape. Prepare to discover the key distinctions between the Xbox Series S and the Xbox Series X and make an informed decision.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | xbox s | x |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 1440p | 4K |
| CPU | Custom 8-core AMD Zen 2 | Custom 8-core AMD Zen 2 |
| GPU | 4 teraflops | 12 teraflops |
| RAM | 10GB GDDR6 | 16GB GDDR6 |
| Storage | 512GB NVMe SSD | 1TB NVMe SSD |
| Optical Drive | No | 4K UHD Blu-ray |
| Frame Rate | Up to 120fps | Up to 120fps |
| HDR Support | Yes | Yes |
| Quick Resume | Yes | Yes |
| Audio | Dolby Digital 5.1 | Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby TrueHD with Atmos |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac |
| Dimensions | Compact | Larger |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processing Power
- Xbox S: Features a custom Zen 2 CPU and a custom RDNA 2 GPU, offering a solid 1440p gaming experience. The S is the more affordable option, but its lower processing power can result in lower frame rates and visual fidelity compared to the X.
- X: Boasts a more powerful custom Zen 2 CPU and a more robust custom RDNA 2 GPU, enabling native 4K gaming at up to 120fps. This provides a significantly smoother and visually richer experience, but comes at a higher price point.
- Winner: X
Graphics Performance
- Xbox S: Designed for 1440p gaming at up to 120fps. It’s capable of handling modern games but may require compromises in settings or resolution for demanding titles.
- X: Optimized for native 4K gaming at up to 120fps, with support for features like ray tracing. Delivers a superior visual experience with higher resolution, smoother frame rates, and more detailed textures.
- Winner: X
Storage
- Xbox S: Includes a 512GB custom NVMe SSD, providing fast loading times. Storage expansion is available through the Xbox Storage Expansion Card.
- X: Comes with a 1TB custom NVMe SSD, offering more storage capacity for games and faster loading times. Also supports the Xbox Storage Expansion Card.
- Winner: X
Disc Drive
- Xbox S: Does not have a disc drive and is a digital-only console. Requires games to be purchased and downloaded digitally.
- X: Includes a 4K UHD Blu-ray disc drive, allowing for physical game purchases and movie playback.
- Winner: X
Price
- Xbox S: The more affordable option, making it an excellent entry point for new gamers or those on a budget.
- X: Significantly more expensive, reflecting its superior hardware and performance.
- Winner: S
Resolution & Frame Rate
- Xbox S: Primarily targets 1440p resolution with frame rates up to 120fps, depending on the game.
- X: Designed for native 4K gaming at up to 120fps, providing a clearer and smoother visual experience.
- Winner: X
Ray Tracing
- Xbox S: Supports ray tracing, but the effects are generally less pronounced due to the lower GPU power.
- X: Offers more robust ray tracing capabilities, resulting in more realistic lighting and reflections in supported games.
- Winner: X
Dimensions and Design
- Xbox S: Compact and sleek design, making it ideal for smaller spaces.
- X: Larger and more substantial design, reflecting its more powerful hardware.
- Winner: S
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Xbox Series X |
| Graphics Performance | Xbox Series X |
| Storage | Xbox Series X |
| Optical Drive | Xbox Series X |
| Value | Xbox Series S |
| Overall Performance | Xbox Series X |
What They Have in Common
- Game Pass: Both consoles fully support Xbox Game Pass, providing access to a vast library of games for a monthly subscription.
- Controller Compatibility: Both consoles use the same Xbox Wireless Controller, ensuring a consistent gaming experience across both platforms.
- Quick Resume: Both consoles feature Quick Resume, allowing players to instantly switch between multiple games.
- Backward Compatibility: Both consoles support backward compatibility with games from previous Xbox generations.
- Online Services: Both consoles require an Xbox Live Gold (or Game Pass Ultimate) subscription for online multiplayer gaming.
Xbox S Vs X Buying Guide
Performance and Graphics
The Xbox Series X boasts significantly superior performance and graphics capabilities compared to the Series S. It features a more powerful GPU and CPU, enabling native 4K gaming at up to 120 frames per second, along with ray tracing support for enhanced visual fidelity. The Series S, on the other hand, targets 1440p gaming at up to 120fps, with some games achieving 4K through upscaling. This difference is noticeable, especially on larger displays, where the Series X delivers sharper images and smoother gameplay. Both consoles offer fast loading times thanks to their SSDs, but the Series X’s storage is also larger.
Storage Capacity
Storage is another key differentiator. The Xbox Series X comes with a 1TB custom NVMe SSD, providing ample space for numerous games and applications. The Series S, however, has a 512GB custom NVMe SSD. This smaller storage capacity can fill up quickly, particularly with the large file sizes of modern games. While both consoles support storage expansion via proprietary expansion cards, the cards are more expensive than traditional external hard drives. Consider your gaming library and download habits when deciding which console’s storage best suits your needs.
Price and Value
The Xbox Series S is considerably more affordable than the Series X, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers or those new to the Xbox ecosystem. The price difference reflects the reduced performance capabilities and smaller storage. However, considering the features offered by the Series S, it still delivers excellent value for its price point. It provides access to the same game library and services as the Series X, including Xbox Game Pass. The Series X, while pricier, offers a premium gaming experience that justifies the investment for those prioritizing top-tier performance.
Game Library and Services
Both the Xbox Series S and Series X share the same extensive game library and access to services such as Xbox Game Pass. This means you can play the same games on either console. Xbox Game Pass provides a vast catalog of games available for download and play at no additional cost. Furthermore, both consoles are compatible with previous-generation Xbox games, allowing you to enjoy your existing library. The differences lie in how these games are experienced, with the Series X offering enhanced visuals and performance for many titles compared to the Series S.
Design and Size
The Xbox Series X adopts a tall, rectangular design, while the Series S is more compact and sleek. The Series S is significantly smaller and easier to fit into entertainment setups with limited space. The Series X, due to its powerful components, is larger and may require more space for adequate ventilation. The design choice is largely a matter of personal preference and available space. Both consoles have a modern aesthetic, but the Series S’s size makes it particularly appealing for portability or discreet placement.
Target Audience
The Xbox Series S caters to gamers who prioritize affordability, portability, and are content with 1440p gaming. It’s an excellent choice for those new to Xbox, families, or individuals with limited budgets. The Xbox Series X is aimed at gamers seeking the ultimate gaming experience, with 4K resolution, superior performance, and the best possible visuals. It’s for those who want to maximize their gaming experience and are willing to invest more for top-of-the-line performance. Consider which console fits your needs and budget when making your selection.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Xbox Series S If…
- You’re on a budget.
- You primarily play on a 1080p or 1440p display.
- You want a smaller, more compact console.
- You are new to console gaming
Buy Xbox Series X If…
- You want the best possible visual fidelity and performance.
- You own a 4K TV and want to take full advantage of it.
- You want a console with a built-in 4K Blu-ray drive.
- You plan to invest in the future of gaming with the highest-end console.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Xbox Series S and Series X?
The primary difference lies in their performance and graphics capabilities. The Xbox Series X offers significantly more powerful hardware, enabling native 4K gaming at higher frame rates and enhanced visual features like ray tracing. The Series S targets 1440p gaming and offers a more budget-friendly option. This includes differences in CPU and GPU power, and storage capacity. The Series X has a larger storage, important for today’s huge game sizes.
Does the Xbox Series S support 4K gaming?
The Xbox Series S does not natively support 4K gaming, but it can upscale games to 4K. It is designed to target 1440p resolution at up to 120 frames per second. While some games may achieve 4K through upscaling, the visual quality is generally not as high as on the Xbox Series X, which offers native 4K gaming with greater detail and visual fidelity. This will depend on the game.
Can I play the same games on both consoles?
Yes, both the Xbox Series S and Series X share the same game library. You can play all the same games on either console. This includes access to Xbox Game Pass and backward compatibility with previous-generation Xbox games. The difference lies in the visual quality and performance, with the Series X providing enhanced graphics and faster loading times for many titles. This ensures that you can play all the games on both consoles.
What is the storage capacity of each console?
The Xbox Series X comes with a 1TB custom NVMe SSD, providing ample storage for games and applications. The Xbox Series S, on the other hand, has a 512GB custom NVMe SSD. This smaller storage can fill up more quickly, so consider your download habits. Both consoles support storage expansion via proprietary expansion cards, which are more expensive than traditional external hard drives.
Which console is better for budget-conscious gamers?
The Xbox Series S is the better choice for budget-conscious gamers. It is significantly more affordable than the Series X, making it an excellent option for those looking for a cost-effective way to enter the next generation of gaming. It provides access to the same game library and services as the Series X, including Xbox Game Pass, at a lower price point. This allows for excellent value.
Does the Xbox Series X have a disc drive?
Yes, the Xbox Series X includes a 4K UHD Blu-ray disc drive, allowing you to play physical game discs and watch 4K Blu-ray movies. The Xbox Series S, however, is a digital-only console and does not have a disc drive. This means you must purchase games digitally through the Xbox Store. This makes the Series X a more versatile and flexible option for gamers.
How do the loading times compare between the consoles?
Both the Xbox Series S and Series X feature custom NVMe SSDs, resulting in significantly faster loading times compared to older Xbox consoles. However, the Xbox Series X might have slightly faster loading times in some games due to its more powerful hardware. Overall, both consoles provide a substantial improvement in loading speed, enhancing the gaming experience by reducing wait times. This makes both consoles better.
Final Verdict
The Xbox Series X offers the ultimate gaming experience with superior performance, stunning 4K visuals, and a larger storage capacity. While the Xbox Series S provides excellent value for its price and is ideal for budget-conscious gamers, the Series X’s enhanced capabilities create a noticeably superior experience. For those prioritizing top-tier performance and visual fidelity, the Xbox Series X is the clear winner.
Winner: Xbox Series X