The Xbox Series S is changing the game with its budget-friendly price. It’s light, only 4.25 pounds1, yet it’s a powerhouse with super-fast SSD storage. This makes games load quickly1. It was launched in 2020, alongside the Xbox Series X, aiming for a wider audience with its focus on ease, reach, and value2.
Key Takeaways
- The Xbox Series S retails for $299.99 at full price, but can often be found in bundles for better value1.
- The Series S is a digital-only console, eliminating the need for a disc drive and requiring all games to be purchased digitally2.
- Despite its lower price point, the Series S can play all the same games as the more powerful Xbox Series X2.
- The Series S features a custom NVMe SSD with up to 512GB capacity, offering impressive performance1.
- The Series S is the first Xbox console to contain Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) plastics, making it an eco-friendly choice3.
The Xbox Series S may not match the Series X in power, but it still offers a great gaming experience. It has a modern CPU, GPU, and supports ray tracing2. It’s made for disc-free gaming at 1440p and can go up to 4K. This makes it perfect for those who want a good gaming experience without spending a lot, or who value portability and easy access to Xbox’s content and services3.
Affordable Next-Gen Console
Price and Availability
The Xbox Series S is a great pick for gamers watching their wallets. It’s priced at $299.99 MSRP4, making it cheaper than the Xbox Series X, which costs $499.994. The Xbox Series S Starter Bundle, with 3 months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for $299.994, adds great value for new players.
You can buy the Xbox Series S from Microsoft and big stores like Walmart, Best Buy, Target, and Dell4. A 1TB version was just announced, costing $499.995, but the 512GB model is still the best deal for most6.
Microsoft’s Xbox All Access lets you pay for your console over time. For $26.99 a month, you get the Xbox Series S and 24 months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. This deal saves $59.99 compared to buying separately4.
When compared to the Xbox Series X, the Xbox Series S is cheaper. It’s available through Xbox All Access for $36.99 a month or $887.76 over 24 months4. Plus, there’s a 0% APR financing option, making it easier for gamers on a budget465.
Compact and Stylish Design
The Xbox Series S has a sleek and modern look that makes it stand out. It’s super light, weighing only 4.25 pounds (1.9kg), making it easy to move around. This is perfect for those with limited space7. Its white body and a unique black vent on the side make it look cool, even if some people thought it looked like a doorbell or toaster at first7.
This console is small and doesn’t have a disc drive, which makes it easy to place anywhere. You can put it up or down without taking up much space7. The designers looked at how people set up their consoles at home. They made the Series S flexible so it fits well in different places and looks good in modern homes7.
The Xbox Series X and S were made with a focus on both looks and function. They use Intelligent Geometry for a unique design that looks great and fits well in homes7.
The Xbox Series S looks great and fits easily into any gaming area. It can be placed in different ways, making it very versatile and liked by users7.
Hardware Specifications
Key Components
The Xbox Series S is a powerful console, even if it’s not as strong as the Xbox Series X. It has a custom AMD Zen 2 CPU that runs at 3.6 GHz. It also has an RDNA 2 GPU that gives 4 teraflops of power8. The console uses 10GB of GDDR6 RAM, which is less than the Series X’s 16GB. This has made it harder for developers to keep the two platforms even8.
The console’s custom NVMe SSD is a highlight, offering fast load times and quick system performance. It’s as fast as the Series X’s SSD8. Even though it targets 1440p resolution and can upscale to 4K, it still provides a smooth gaming experience. This is thanks to its strong internal components910.
The Xbox Series S is the first Xbox to use Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) plastics and has energy-saving modes9. It works with thousands of games from four Xbox generations and can run up to 120 FPS9. The main differences with the Series X are in resolution and storage, with the Series S focusing on 1440p and disc-free gaming910.
One great feature of the Xbox Series S is Quick Resume, which lets you switch between games easily. This is also available on the Series X9. But, the Series S doesn’t support physical discs, being a digital-only console9.
Even though it can’t match the Series X in visuals, the Xbox Series S still offers a great gaming experience. This is due to its efficient and balanced hardware setup1098.
Performance Capabilities
The Xbox Series S is a strong choice for next-gen gaming, even if it’s not the top console from Microsoft. It aims for 1080p to 1440p resolutions, not the 4K of the pricier Xbox Series X11. Yet, it still offers a great gaming experience with frame rates up to 120 FPS12. This makes fast-paced games run smoothly and feel responsive.
The Series S’s GPU, though less powerful than the Series X, supports ray tracing12. This tech makes games look more real by improving lighting and reflections in real-time12. It’s a good mix of performance and price, giving gamers a great experience without needing the highest resolutions or frame rates.
Resolution and Frame Rate
Even without true 4K, the Xbox Series S delivers stunning and smooth gameplay13. It focuses on 1080p to 1440p, but its 120 FPS frame rate keeps games running smoothly12.
| Specification | Xbox Series S | Xbox Series X |
|---|---|---|
| Max Resolution | 1440p | 4K |
| Max Frame Rate | 120 FPS | 120 FPS |
| Ray Tracing | Yes | Yes |
| GPU | 4 TFLOPS | 12 TFLOPS |
The Xbox Velocity Architecture in both consoles cuts down on load times, in and out of games12. This, along with hardware-accelerated DirectX Raytracing, makes for an immersive and beautiful gaming experience on the Series S.
The Xbox Series S is a great choice for those looking for a next-gen gaming experience that values performance and price13. It offers high frame rates, advanced graphics, and quick load times. This makes it a balanced and fun option for many players121311.
Xbox Series S Gaming Experience
The Xbox Series S offers a top-notch gaming experience, leveraging the Xbox ecosystem’s strengths14. It may not have the same specs as the Xbox Series X, but it still delivers smooth gameplay with quick load times and fast performance14.
One big plus of the Xbox Series S is its huge game library, including new next-gen titles optimized for the console14. Plus, it works great with Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass. This service lets users stream or download a huge number of games, including many top releases14.
The console’s gaming performance is top-notch, aiming for 1440p at 60 or 120 FPS for most games14. Some games like Hades and The Touryst even support 4K at 60 FPS, but most run best in 1080p14. Its super-fast NVME SSD storage means super quick load times, making for a smooth gaming experience14.
In summary, the Xbox Series S is a great choice for all types of gamers, from casual players to those looking for a budget-friendly next-gen console14. It has a huge game library, works well with Xbox Game Pass, and performs impressively. This makes it a strong contender in the next-gen gaming market14.
“The Xbox Series S is an ultimate Game Pass machine, granting players access to a vast library of games to download and stream.”
Storage and Expansion Options
The Xbox Series S has a limited internal storage, with only 512GB of fast SSD space. About 364GB is available for games15. This is less than the Xbox Series X, which has 1TB15.
Microsoft offers the Seagate Storage Expansion Card for more space. This card works as fast as the console’s SSD. It lets users add more storage without losing speed or game quality15.
Proprietary Expansion Card
The Seagate Storage Expansion Card comes in sizes from 512GB to 2TB, priced from $89.99 to $279.9915. Western Digital’s WD Black C50 has similar options for $79.99 and $149.9915.
This expansion card is a good way to increase storage, but it’s pricey. Games like Starfield and Halo: The Master Chief Collection take up a lot of space15.
For those watching their budget, the WD Black P10 Game Drive is cheaper, starting at $79.99. But, some games might not work well with it15.
Adding external storage to the Xbox Series S is easy. Just plug in a drive of at least 128GB, set it for games, and check the status in Settings1516.
Ecosystem and Compatibility
The Xbox Series S shines with its smooth fit into the Xbox ecosystem17. Even though it’s more budget-friendly, the Series S gives full access to the huge Xbox Game Pass library. This means players can dive into a vast collection of games, including the newest ones made for next-gen consoles17. Plus, it keeps backwards compatibility with many Xbox One and even Xbox 360 games. This lets players easily play their old games too18.
This deep connection with the Xbox world, along with the great value of Xbox Game Pass, makes the Series S a great choice for those wanting to join Xbox without spending a lot17.
| Feature | Xbox Series S | Xbox Series X |
|---|---|---|
| GPU | 4 TFLOPS19 | 12 TFLOPS19 |
| RAM | 10GB19 | 16GB19 |
| Backward Compatibility | Yes, with Xbox One and select Xbox 360/Xbox titles18 | Yes, with Xbox One and select Xbox 360/Xbox titles18 |
| Game Pass | Full access to the Xbox Game Pass library17 | Full access to the Xbox Game Pass library17 |
Even though the Series S and Series X differ in tech, Microsoft aims to keep features the same across both games19. This sometimes poses challenges for game makers. Yet, the Series S’s strong ecosystem and Game Pass value make it a top pick for those watching their budget but still wanting a full Xbox experience17.
“Xbox Game Pass is at the core of Xbox’s strategy to innovate and bring gaming to a broader audience worldwide, with plans for new subscription offerings and dynamic approaches to reach more players.”17
As Microsoft grows the Xbox Series S ecosystem, its price and compatibility with Xbox games make it appealing to many players17. Whether you’re deeply into Xbox or new to it, the Series S offers a strong value that’s worth exploring171918.
Comparing to Xbox Series X
The Xbox Series S is more budget-friendly but still matches the Xbox Series X in many ways. Both use the same AMD Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU, ensuring they perform similarly20. They also have fast NVMe SSD storage for quick load times and smooth performance20.
Differences and Similarities
The Series S cuts costs by aiming for a 1440p resolution and 4K upscaling, unlike the Series X’s native 4K20. It has less RAM and a less powerful GPU, making games less demanding20. Still, the Series S offers a great gaming experience for those who value price, portability, and ease of use over raw power.
| Feature | Xbox Series X | Xbox Series S |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 / £449 / AU$74920 | $299.99 / £249.99 / AU$49920, $349 for 1TB21 |
| Storage | 1TB SSD20 | 512GB SSD20, also available in 1TB21 |
| Resolution | Native 4K at 60fps, up to 120fps20 | 1440p with 4K upscaling, up to 120fps20 |
| GPU | 12 teraflops20 | 4 teraflops2021, |
| Disc Drive | 4K UHD Blu-ray20 | No disc drive20 |
The Xbox Series S and Series X have many things in common, like their CPU and GPU, fast storage, and support for up to 120fps gaming20. But, the Series S has lower resolution, less powerful GPU, and less storage to be cheaper20. The choice between them depends on what you want and how much you can spend, with the Series S being more affordable and accessible202122.
Value for Money
The Xbox Series S is a great deal in next-generation console gaming. It costs $299.99, sometimes as low as $249.991. This makes it cheaper than the Xbox Series X at $499.99 or the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition at $399.9923. Even with less powerful hardware, it still offers a good gaming experience. It supports ray tracing, fast loading, and up to 120 FPS1.
It also comes with the Xbox Game Pass, giving you access to many games for a monthly fee1. For those on a budget or looking for an affordable next-gen console, the Xbox Series S is a top choice. It gives you a full next-generation gaming experience without the high cost.
Budget-Friendly Next-Gen Gaming
The Xbox Series S is seen as the most budget-friendly next-gen console2. It may not be as powerful as the Xbox Series X, but it still plays the latest games smoothly23. At $299.99 (sometimes $249.99)1, it’s a great price for gamers wanting next-gen features without spending a lot.
This console can run up to 1440p at 120 FPS, a big jump from older consoles23. Its sleek, disc-less design fits well in any home and offers a modern gaming experience1. Plus, its fast SSD loading times make games run smoother1.
For those watching their budget, the Xbox Series S is a smart choice2. It’s affordable, performs well, and fits right into the Xbox ecosystem. This makes it a great pick for a next-gen console without the high cost1232.
Pros and Cons
The Xbox Series S has both good and bad points for buyers. It gives great performance and looks sleek and compact. But, there are things to think about when picking between Microsoft’s new consoles24.
Pros of the Xbox Series S
- It costs $299.99, making it easy to get into next-gen gaming1.
- It’s small and light, great for small spaces1.
- It has strong hardware for 1440p gaming at up to 120 FPS1.
- You can play a huge library of games from Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox24.
- It has fast load times and switching between apps with a custom NVMe SSD1.
- It supports cool graphics features like variable refresh rate and ray-traced visuals24.
Cons of the Xbox Series S
- It only has 364GB of space, which might be too little for some gamers1.
- It doesn’t have a disc drive, so you’re stuck with digital games and media25.
- Its GPU is not as strong as the Xbox Series X, which might mean missing out on some features24.
- The Seagate expansion card for more storage costs $149.99 for 1TB1.
The Xbox Series S is a good mix of performance, portability, and price. It’s perfect for those watching their budget or with limited space. But, the storage issues and no disc drive might not be what some gamers want24251.
“The Xbox Series S is a fantastic option for gamers on a budget who still want to enjoy the benefits of next-gen gaming.” – Tech Enthusiast
Verdict and Recommendations
The Xbox Series S is a great choice for gamers on a budget. It costs only $300, which is much less than the $500 Xbox Series X. This makes it perfect for those who want to save money2627. Even though it’s not the most powerful console, it still offers a fun gaming experience. It supports cool features like ray tracing and high frame rates.
The console looks good and fits well in the Xbox ecosystem. It’s known for its fast performance and the great value of the Xbox Game Pass subscription28.
Some downsides include a small 512GB SSD and a lack of new games at launch. But, the new black version with a 1TB SSD fixes the storage issue. It’s also very light and takes up less space, making it great for small spaces2827.
The Xbox Series S is a great pick for gamers who don’t want to spend a lot but still want next-gen gaming. It has great performance, a nice design, and works well with the Xbox ecosystem. This makes it a strong choice for those new to next-gen gaming.
“The Xbox Series S is a standout choice in the current console landscape, offering a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious gamers.”
Conclusion
The Xbox Series S is a big win for those looking for a budget-friendly next-generation console29. It may not match the Series X in power or resolution, but it still offers a great gaming experience. Its sleek design makes it a great choice for anyone wanting to start with the latest gaming tech without spending a lot.
Even with some trade-offs, like a 1440p resolution limit29 and a 30 fps cap for some games29, the Series S still shines. It has fast loading times30, plays older games well30, and can run games at high frame rates30. This makes it a great pick for those on a budget, casual gamers, or anyone wanting a second console for another TV.
It’s not the top choice for the best visuals or performance31. But for those who value affordability and ease of use, the Series S is a top pick30. With Xbox Game Pass30, it offers great value and a huge selection of games. This makes it an excellent option for jumping into the newest gaming trends without breaking the bank.
FAQ
What is the Xbox Series S and how does it compare to the Xbox Series X?
The Xbox Series S is a budget-friendly next-generation gaming console from Microsoft. It’s cheaper than the Xbox Series X but still offers great features like ray tracing and high frame rates.
What are the key hardware specifications of the Xbox Series S?
It has a custom AMD Zen 2 CPU and an RDNA 2 GPU with 4 teraflops of power. It also has 10GB of GDDR6 RAM and a fast NVMe SSD for quick loading times. It supports resolutions from 1080p to 1440p and frame rates up to 120 FPS.
What is the price and availability of the Xbox Series S?
It costs 9.99 but is often discounted to 9.99. You can buy it from Microsoft and big retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, Target, and Dell.
What is the design and form factor of the Xbox Series S?
It has a modern, white design with a unique black vent on the side. It’s very light, weighing just 4.25 pounds. You can place it vertically or horizontally to fit your space.
How does the Xbox Series S perform in terms of gaming experience?
It aims for a 1440p resolution with 4K upscaling for a smooth gaming experience. It supports up to 120 FPS and has ray tracing for stunning visuals.
What is the storage capacity and expansion options for the Xbox Series S?
It starts with 512GB of SSD storage, but you can add more with a Seagate expansion card. This card offers another 1TB of fast storage for 9.99.
How does the Xbox Series S integrate with the broader Xbox ecosystem?
It connects fully with the Xbox Game Pass library, giving you access to many games. It also works with Xbox One and Xbox 360 games, making it easy to play old favorites.
What are the main pros and cons of the Xbox Series S?
Its big pros are its price, design, Xbox ecosystem integration, and Xbox Game Pass. The cons are its less powerful hardware, limited storage, and the cost of expanding storage.
Is the Xbox Series S a good value for money?
Yes, it’s a great deal for next-generation gaming. At 9.99 (often 9.99), it’s cheaper than rivals but still offers a fun gaming experience.
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