The next generation of Xbox consoles has proven to be quite powerful. With high specs and strong performance, all at a fairly good price when you compare them to similar-level consoles and computers on the market. The Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X are certainly two top options for gaming to this day, but how big is the difference between the main console and its compact counterpart? Let’s find out.
If you are still looking for one of these consoles, and have decided which you want, you may be able to find them within our console range.
Storage
The first thing we will be looking at is the storage difference between the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X. And straight away, the Xbox Series X is the better option. Packed with 1TB of storage size, which leaves you plenty of space to install your games. Compared to the Xbox Series S’ 512GB, which in this current day and with the growing storage demands of games, is quite limited.
It is also worth noting that both can be increased using one of the dedicated Seagate Storage expansions, though these are quite expensive and offer the same benefits for both consoles. Both consoles also utilise solid-state drives rather than the HDDs we have seen in previous consoles. Which instantly offers both the Xbox Series X and Series S the benefit of faster boot times and faster installations.
Verdict: When it comes to the base amount of storage, the Xbox Series X has this easily. Featuring nearly double the storage size of the Xbox Series S. But it is worth noting that other than the storage difference, both feature the same fast boot and installation times. So, if you don’t mind having a limited 512GB, you won’t find much difference between both consoles when it comes to storage.
Graphics
Just like with the greater storage capacity, the Xbox Series X excels when it comes to graphical prowess compared to the Xbox Series S. With the biggest noticeable difference is the Xbox Series X’s ability to perform with true native 4K. This is something that the Series S lacks, being capable of upscaled 4K at the very most. (The Xbox Series X is capable of 4K UHD, and the Xbox Series S is capable of 1440p at the highest).
When it comes to exact specifications, you begin to see how big the difference truly is. With the Xbox Series S packing 4 TFLOPS, 20CUs @1.565Ghz of Custom RDNA 2 graphics and the Xbox Series X boasting 12 TFLOPS, 52 CUs @1.825 GHz Custom RDNA 2 GPU. Which makes the Xbox Series X around 3x more powerful graphically. Just make sure you have the right monitor or display to get the best out of it.
Verdict: The Xbox Series X takes the cake, and very easily.
Performance
We have talked about the graphical performance, but how about the gameplay? Following the trend, the Xbox Series X is the better option here. But the difference between both consoles here is not as noticeable compared to the other components mentioned so far. Both the Xbox Series X and Series S are capable of up to 120fps, which is a big win for both consoles.
Both feature near similar processors as well, with the Xbox Series S having an 8x core @ 3.6 GHz Custom Zen 2 CPU and the Xbox Series X having an 8x core @ 3.8 GHz Custom Zen 2 CPU.
Though both have similar performance, the Xbox Series X still has the edge thanks to its greater memory. Its 16GB GDDR6 w/320 bit-wide bus means that compared to the Xbox Series S, it is going to be a lot faster at running your games and switching between games and apps. The Xbox Series S features 10GB GDDR6 with a 128-bit-wide bus, in comparison.
Verdict: The difference between the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S is still clear here, but not as significant as other components. Performance-wise, you won’t notice a massive difference between the Series X and S.
Size and Design
The one area that the Series S does have an edge in though is its super compact design. The Xbox Series S is only 6.5cm x 15.1cm x 27.5cm in size, which is quite significant when you compare it to the Xbox Series X, which sits at 15.1cm x 15.1cm x 30.1cm. Which is quite a difference as it means the Series S is around half the size of the Series X. Meaning that you hardly must worry about how much room you have.
Both consoles feature the same ports. Both have 3x USB 3.0 ports along with a single HDMI 2.1 port and a slot for the Seagate Storage expansion and an ethernet cable.
Verdict: For its particularly good specifications, all within a compact model, the Xbox Series S is getting this one. It is very compact, and the better option space-wise when compared to the Series X. Or any console for that matter.
Price
The last field we will cover is the price. And, as expected, the Xbox Series S is the better option here. Being £249.99 at retail price, though it isn’t difficult to find it new cheaper currently. And the Xbox Series X is £449.99 retail.
Both are worth the price too. The specifications are very strong, especially at the price you are paying. And both are now widely available and easy to come by in the market. If you want the cheaper option, the Xbox Series S will certainly not disappoint. But the Xbox Series X is very worth the price if you want the best.
Conclusion
Both are very strong options, and the Xbox Series X is certainly the winner. But we knew that from the start. Looking at these two consoles, there is a noticeable difference. The Xbox Series X is packed with far greater storage size and graphics. Though if you are more concerned about the base performance rather than graphics, you won’t be disappointed if you opt for the cheaper option of the Series S compared to X. But for an all-around experience, the Xbox Series X is a good few leaps ahead.
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