Compare Xbox Series S and X: The Ultimate Guide for Gamers.

When Microsoft introduced its latest gaming generation with the Xbox Series S and X, gamers were given a choice: go for the affordable and compact Xbox Series S or the high-performance Xbox Series X. Released on November 10, 2020, both consoles represented a big step forward in gaming, offering faster speeds, better performance, and improved graphics. This brings in a new generation of gaming to the market: two units are now available to the gamer, ranging from the casual to the professional.

The Xbox Series S is touted as a slim next-generation gaming experience at a lower price, with features promising much faster load times, an even higher frame rate and even better visuals when compared to the Xbox Series X, which would run at a higher resolution than the latter. With Xbox Series X, it is all-powerful play – this is the most powerful of the two, running games at true 4K resolution and up to 120 frames per second. This makes it ideal for gamers who want the very best in performance and visual quality.

In this blog, we’ll explore how Microsoft’s latest gaming generation stacks up in terms of design, performance, features, and value. We’ll compare the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X in detail to help you decide which console is right for you. Whether you are looking for a great deal with good performance, or the absolute best gaming experience, this guide should help get you the better part of your way to the best gaming experience available.

With Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, the price becomes a crucial factor for most gamers, so Microsoft has positioned these two consoles in different budgets and needs in varied financial situations, which makes it a little easier for players to get one that they would fit well with within their budget.

If you’re looking for further insight into Xbox Series X console, our Xbox Series X review highlights the pros of the console.

Xbox Series S and X : Price

Xbox Series X Price: The Xbox Series X ( Buy on Amazon with $100 Gift Card) is the more expensive of the two consoles. It’s at $579 on Amazon. This one is more expensive because it has advanced technology on which one can find 4K gaming at 120 frames per second and many other high-end specifications. Its aim is for hardcore gamers willing to pay extra money for the best performance, graphics, and speed.

Xbox Series S Price: On the other hand, the Xbox Series S ( Buy on Amazon ) is designed to be more affordable. It starts at $299, making it a budget-friendly option for those who still want to experience next-gen gaming. While it costs less, the Series S still offers great performance with 1440p resolution and faster load times, though it doesn’t reach the same high resolution as the Series X. This makes it a good choice for gamers who want a taste of next-gen features without spending as much.

In short: The Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S owe their different price points to their respective performance tiers. If you want the ultimate gaming quality experience and are willing to pay a little more for the sheer privilege, Xbox Series X is quite nice. Then again, if you want some of that next-gen goodness without breaking the bank, Xbox Series S is it.

Xbox Series S vs Xbox Series X : Size and Design

The two consoles differ very much in size, weight, and even design. Let’s compare them side by side.

Dimensions and Weight

• Xbox Series X: 15.1 x 15.1 x 30.1 cm (6.1 x 6.1 x 12 inches), 4.4 kg (9.8 pounds)
• Xbox Series S: 6.5 x 15.1 x 27.5 cm (2.6 x 6.1 x 10.8 inches), 1.93 kg (4.25 pounds)

The Xbox Series S is a much smaller and lighter console, perfect for those with limited space, or someone that prefers a more portable unit. The Series X is much heavier and larger but in proportion, to accommodate more powerful components.

Ports and Connectivity

Both consoles offer similar connectivity options:

• Xbox Series X: 3 USB 3.1 ports, 1 HDMI 2.1 output, Ethernet port, expansion slot for additional storage
• Xbox Series S: 3 USB 3.1 ports, 1 HDMI 2.1 output, Ethernet port, expansion slot for additional storage

Both the Xbox Series S and X support Wi-Fi 6 for fast wireless connections, and they both have an expansion slot to add more SSD storage. The HDMI 2.1 output is essential for high refresh rates and 4K output.

Xbox S And Xbox X:Performance

The Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X are quite different from each other. Although both of the consoles can provide next-gen gaming experiences, the Xbox Series X is an awful lot more powerful. So, let’s break this down from their specs about how these compare to each other in hardware.

CPU and GPU Comparison

• Xbox Series X:
  • CPU: 8-core AMD Zen 2, 3.8 GHz
  • GPU: AMD RDNA 2, 12 teraflops
• Xbox Series S:
  • CPU: 8-core AMD Zen 2, 3.6 GHz
  • GPU: AMD RDNA 2, 4 teraflops

The new Xbox Series X has an even faster CPU and more powerful GPU, therefore, it is capable of delivering better graphics performance and the best possible gameplay experience in resolutions higher than 4K. The Series X has 12 teraflops of computing power, which means it deals with more detailed visuals, quicker load times, and the ultimate frame rates.

It comes with a more moderate price, but the experience is somewhat diminished for those who don’t want to play at lower resolutions (1440p instead of 4K). Still, it does 4 teraflops and will run all next-gen games, just not quite as nice looking as the Series X.

RAM and Storage

• Xbox Series X:
  • RAM: 16 GB GDDR6
  • Storage: 1 TB NVMe SSD
• Xbox Series S:
  • RAM: 10 GB GDDR6
  • Storage: 512 GB NVMe SSD

The Series X has more RAM, aiding in multitasking, game loading, and performance in larger open-world games. You get more space with the 1 TB SSD, and seriously, who needs less when you consider the enormous size that modern game files can have.

With 512 GB of storage on the Xbox Series S, you get half its capacity and may need to frequently manage your game library if you are in the habit of downloading large, high-end AAA games.

Resolution and Frame Rates

• Xbox Series X: Up to 4K resolution at 60 to 120 frames per second (fps)
• Xbox Series S: Up to 1440p resolution at 60 to 120 fps

If you already own 4K TV or have a lot of plans to game in Ultra HD, then the Xbox Series X is going to be a far superior experience. Of course, the Series S is built specifically for 1440p gaming, but it can upscale to 4K for streaming and some gaming situations. For those who are okay with just maybe 10% less resolution, then the Series S still provides silky-smooth gameplay at high frame rates.

Xbox S Vs Xbox X:Storage and Expandability

Storage space is a very important element in the games of today. Games have become larger; with high-resolution textures being used, they consume more storage space.

• Xbox Series S: Comes with 512 GB SSDs, but only about 364 GB are actually accessible for use once you add the system files. This will leave the sole player that uses that console scrambling for enough space to fit anything more than a couple of games. Allows you to add external storage via the Seagate Storage Expansion Card up to 1 TB.
• Xbox Series X: The Series X comes with 1TB of SSD, which translates to about 802GB of usable space – a huge deal, since the extra memory seriously saves people from all-night download sessions with massive AAA games – and it also comes with external storage through its Seagate Expansion Card, much like the Series S.

Verdict: The Xbox Series X offers double the internal storage of the Series S, making it more suitable for gamers with large libraries or those who prefer not to rely on external storage.

Xbox Series X and S:Game Library and Backward Compatibility

One of the major strengths of the Xbox platform is overall library of games and offerings in backward compatibility. Both Series S and Series X can play thousands of games from four generations of Xbox consoles.

Xbox Game Pass and Available Games

Both consoles work with Xbox Game Pass, Microsoft’s service that lets you play hundreds of games for a small monthly fee. With Xbox Game Pass, you can play new games like Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5, as well as many indie and third-party games.

Backward Compatibility

One attribute many feel both offer is terrific backward compatibility. Both the Series S and the Series X are playable with games from:

• Xbox One
• Xbox 360
• Original Xbox

The Series X, with its added power, is capable of delivering better performance for older games, often providing faster load times, higher resolutions, and smoother frame rates through techniques like Auto HDR.

The Series S is backward compatible and, even though those enhancements will not carry onto older titles for visual goodness, will still run them without a problem.

Who Should Buy the Xbox Series S or Xbox Series X?

Choosing between the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X depends on your gaming preferences, budget, and the type of hardware you own. Here is a break down that should help you make a decision about which console best for you.

Xbox Series X Is Ideal For:

• Gamers who enjoy only the very best graphics, absolute highest frame rates and resolution to 4K.
• Players looking for hardware strength to render future titles with ease, years coming.
• Gamers with large digital libraries who need more storage.

Xbox Series S Is Ideal For:

• Casual gamers or those who are new to the Xbox ecosystem.
• Players who don’t mind 1440p gaming instead of 4K but still want to experience next-gen games.
• Gamers on a budget who want access to the Game Pass library without breaking the bank.

Which Xbox Should You Buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X comes down to how much power you need and how much you’re willing to spend.

If you’re after raw power, 4K resolution, and top-tier performance, the Xbox Series X is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a next-gen gaming experience at a more affordable price and don’t mind trading off some performance for savings, the Xbox Series S is a fantastic option.

No matter which console you choose, both the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X will deliver amazing gaming experiences, with access to an extensive library of games and the excellent value provided by Xbox Game Pass.

FAQs

What are all the differences between Xbox Series X and S?

The main difference between the two consoles is that the Xbox Series X offers natively native 4K, includes a UHD Blu-ray Disc, and it comes with 1TB of custom SSD storage. Meanwhile, the Xbox Series S designed for digital-only gameplay at 1440p can upscale to 4K with the inclusion of a custom SSD.

Is the Xbox Series S worth it?

At least for many gamers, the Xbox Series S will be worthwhile. Provided, that is, that it’s a good buy if one wants access to next-gen gaming at an affordable price without giving up too much in terms of important features. It does not have the raw power of the Xbox Series X, but still fast loading, smooth performance, and the full library of Xbox, including new releases.

The Series S supports 1440p resolution (with the ability to upscale to 4K) and runs most games at 60 frames per second, making it great for casual gamers or those who don’t require 4K gaming. It’s also a good option if you prefer digital gaming and don’t need a disk drive. Overall, if you want a budget-friendly next-gen console and don’t mind a lower resolution, the Xbox Series S offers a lot of value.

Can I play the same games on both Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X?

• Yes, both consoles can play the same games. However, the Series X will generally provide better graphics and higher frame rates due to its more powerful hardware.

Does the Xbox Series S support 4K gaming?

• The Series S is designed for 1440p gaming, but it can upscale to 4K for streaming services and certain games. If native 4K is important to you, the Series X is a better choice.

Can I use external storage on both consoles?

• Yes, both consoles have expansion slots for additional storage. You can also use external hard drives to store and play Xbox One games.

Is the Xbox Series S less future-proof than the Series X?

• The Series S may not be as powerful as the Series X, but it is still part of the next-gen ecosystem and should be capable of running games for years to come, albeit at lower resolutions and settings.

How powerful is Xbox Series X compared to Pc?

The Xbox Series X is a powerful console with hardware comparable to a mid-range gaming PC. It features a custom AMD processor with 12 teraflops of GPU power, which offers excellent performance for 4K gaming. However, high-end PCs with more powerful GPUs, CPUs, and additional features can surpass the Series X in terms of raw power and flexibility.

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