The current generation of Xbox consoles present what might seem like a confusing choice: the $500 Xbox Series X and the $300 Xbox Series S. Both are based on a similar foundation, and both will play all of the same games for years to come. But the Series X and the Series S each target a different level of graphics performance, and feature different approaches to physical media—meaning the Series X supports it, and the Series S does not. With that in mind, we’re here to help you figure out which one you should buy—or, if you need to buy one at all.
Our pick
Microsoft Xbox Series X
The best Xbox
Get the Series X if you’ll use it with a 4K TV (now, or eventually), want the absolute best in graphics and performance, or you want a disc drive for games and movies.
With better graphics, more storage, and a disc drive, the Xbox Series X justifies its higher price —but whether those features are worth paying for depends on what you’re playing it on. If you have a 4K TV with high end features like 120hz and variable refresh rate, or will buy one in the next few years, you’ll likely come across games that can take advantage of Xbox Series X’s extra graphics capability compared to the Xbox Series S. Both consoles have impressively fast storage that improves boot-up and load times, but the Series X has over 800 GB available internally, nearly twice the available storage space in the Series S. Plus, if you have a collection of physical Xbox One, Xbox 360, or original-Xbox games that you want to keep playing, only the Series X has a disc drive, which also makes it the model of choice if you want a console that can also be your 4K Blu-ray player.
Also great
Microsoft Xbox Series S
Less for less
Games on the Series S are less likely to take advantage of TVs with 4K resolution, and it lacks a disc drive, a downside if you own a lot of physical games or movies, or like to buy them used. But it’s smaller, lighter, can play the new generations of games, and is a great value paired with a Game Pass Ultimate subscription.
Buying Options
*At the time of publishing, the price was $300.
On the other hand, if you don’t have a 4K TV (and won’t buy one soon), if space in your entertainment center is a concern, or if you don’t have or plan to buy many physical discs, the Xbox Series S offers a lot of value and still gives you the chance to play the new generation of games to come. And anyone who mostly plays games from Xbox Game Pass—the monthly subscription service with access to hundreds of games, including new releases—probably won’t miss the disc drive. We also think that makes the Xbox Series S an especially budget-conscious choice for younger kids, since the less expensive console and monthly membership add up to more games than a kid can play, with no need to buy new ones all the time. The Series S might also be a good option for some travelers and hosts. If you’re going somewhere for an extended stay, it can easily fit in a carry-on piece of luggage. And if you have a guest room or vacation rental, a Series S adds a lot beyond a regular media streaming box.
If the only reason you’d buy a new console is for brand-new games you can’t play on your existing Xbox One (or, for that matter, a PlayStation 4), you may not need to rush into a new console just yet—most high profile titles this year are still receiving versions on older consoles. But if you spend a lot of time with your Xbox One now and are ready for plenty of immediately noticeable quality of life improvements and conveniences, as well as performance and visual improvements in the games you already have, an Xbox Series X or Series S will provide plenty of immediate benefits.
We also have answers to the most frequently asked questions below.
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