Xbox Series X vs Xbox Series S comparison

With Microsoft offering up both the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S this holiday season, buyers have a bit of choice on their hands. Anyone who wants to get involved with the Xbox ecosystem (and a taste of that delicious Game Pass pie) will need to decide which console is for them. To help you make up your mind, we’ve broken down the key differences between the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S for you. 

Xbox Series X vs Xbox Series S comparison

The Xbox Series X is Microsoft’s powerhouse, aiming to be the most powerful console available in the next generation. The Series S, on the other hand, is a far more affordable model. Want to know how each stacks up? Below you’ll find a full Xbox Series X vs Xbox Series S comparison in terms of specs. Underneath we’ll talk you through the pros and cons of each model

Related: Xbox Series X|S launch games

Xbox Series X or S: Which console is right for you?

Now that you’ve seen the specs for both machines, it’s easy to see just how much more powerful the Series X is than the series S. With a much beefier GPU and CPU, the Series X is the console of choice for tho9se who want the most powerful device. Both devices will run the same games, so the biggest difference this will make over the Series S is in terms of resolution and framerate. 

The Xbox Series X promises to deliver native 4K at a steady 60 fps. It’ll also support 8K and up to 120 fps where possible. The Series S, however, only promises 1440p resolutions, with up to 120 fps where possible. It will, however, support upscaling for 4K-capable TVs. Put simply, if you have a 4K TV, the Series X will provide the best output. If you’re using something smaller, the Series S will likely suffice when it comes to resolution. 

Another big consideration is the internal storage and lack of optical drive on the Series S. While the Series X has 1TB of internal storage and supports games on disc, the Series S is an all-digital device with only 512GB of storage. If you don’t mind buying digital only and picking up external storage devices, the Series S should be fine. But anyone who wants to buy physical games will need to grab a Series X.

Hopefully this Xbox Series X vs Series S comparison guide has helped you decide which console is right for you. If one’s particularly taken your fancy, why not let us know why in the comments below? If you’re interested in the games on offer, you can click here to read our full list of confirmed games for the Xbox Series S and X. Head over to our Xbox Series X hub by clicking here to keep yourself up to date with all the biggest information regarding Microsoft's next-gen consoles.

Henry Stenhouse

Associate Editor

Henry Stenhouse serves an eternal punishment as the Associate Editor of AllGamers. He spent his younger life studying the laws of physics, even going so far as to complete a PhD in the subject before video games stole his soul. Confess your love of Super Smash Bros. via email at henry@moonrock.agency, or catch him on Twitter.