Xbox Series X
Truly current-gen
The Xbox Series X is Microsoft’s premier current-gen gaming console. It can deliver 4K resolution consistently, which can go up to 8K. It features 12 Teraflops processing power.
Xbox Series S
The perfect Game Pass machine
Also launched in 2020, the Xbox Series S is the full-digital, mid-range edition of Microsoft’s latest gaming platform. It is not as powerful as Series X. It delivers 1440p with 4 Teraflops od processing power.
Microsoft launched the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S at the same time in 2020. While the two consoles came out together and almost have the same name, thy are catered to two very separate audiences. The Series X is the true current-gen version of the Xbox line of consoles, with the latest technology to enhance player experience.
That’s not to say that the Xbox Series S is not a good console. It doesn’t deliver all the punches that the Series X does, but it still gives you enough to enjoy most modern games. Ultimately, the choice really depends on your gaming preferences and your budget. If you want to play the latest triple-A titles with all the latest bells and whistles, go with the Series X. But if you’re more of a casual gamer who prefers FIFA and the odd indie title, the Series S is your best choice. But, let’s get into the details before you make a decision.
Updated on June 05, 2025 by Vaspaan Dastoor:We’ve updated this guide to better suit out style guide, as well as add a bit more information to help you make the right decision.
Gaming Preference
It’s evident that the Xbox Series X is the more powerful console of the two. It easily delivers 4K resolution, which can even go up to 8K; and features three times the processing power of the Series S. So, if you want to play big-budget triple-A games that focus on fidelity, the Series X is the console you’ll want to go with. It has the specs to deal with high demand of current-gen games.
But that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to play them on the Series S - but you’ll have to settle for 1440p. Most games will run just fine, but not with the same performance as on the Series X. Now, if you’re the kind of gamer who sticks to FIFA, Fortnite, Minecraft, a bit of Call of Duty, and whatever is on GamePass, then the Series S is the better investment, as the Series X would just be overkill for the kind of games you play.
Disc Drive
This is one of the main dividing factors when it comes to choosing between the two consoles - especially since game preservation has become such a debated topic. If you’re of the opinion that you only want to purchase game discs, you’re not left with much of a choice, as the Series S does not feature a disc drive at all.
This was one of the decisions taken by Microsoft in order to lower the overall cost of the Series S. Unfortunately, it means you’re going to have to fully download any game that you want to play, with the size of many current-gen ones going up to 100GB. This is a deal-breaker for many prospective buyers, so make sure you weigh the not only the pros and cons, but also the aftereffects of purchasing a console without a disc drive.
Cost
In the end, however, no matter what your preferences and thoughts on disc drives are, your budget will be the biggest deciding factor. Based on the new technology and sheer power that Microsoft has put into the Xbox Series X, it’s not surprising that it costs $200 more than the Series S. These prices may fluctuate a bit, but the difference between the two price points won’t change all that much.
So, if your budget doesn’t allow you to go above $299, then it appears that the Series S is your only option. Which, again, is not to say that it’s a bad option - you’ll still have access to Xbox’s vast library of original and third-party games. You’ll just be missing that performance power that the Series X brings to triple-A games.
Size
While this may not be the most important parameter, the Xbox Series X is much larger than the Series S. The latter is much slimmer and more versatile when it comes to storage and shelf placement, while the Series X has a much broader build and can only be placed standing. If shelf space is a major concern, you might want to opt for the Series X.
Bottom Line
There are several factors to consider when it comes to choosing between the Xbox Series X and Series S. However, what matters most is what you want out of your console. If you want a console just to play online games with friends, some FIFA, and maybe the next big farming sim, the Series S is the perfect choice.
But if you truly want to experience current-gen gaming, with all the fancy new features and fidelity that modern games offer, then the Series X is the ideal choice. Just make sure it’s what you want, and don’t invest more money into something just because it’s more powerful.
FAQ
Is the Xbox Series X better than Xbox Series S?
As explained above, the Series X is more powerful than the Series S, but the latter can play any game the former can.
Is Xbox Series S worth it?
In terms of sheer value for money and ability to play games, the Xbox Series S is definitely worth its price.
Can the Xbox Series S do 4K?
The Xbox Series S cannot deliver 4K resolution. It is capped at 1440p.
