Both Xbox consoles have become more expensive since launch, but the Series S remains relatively affordable. The most obvious difference is that the Series S is a digital-only device with no disc drive. A Series X model without a disc drive also exists and knocks $50 off its price, but otherwise the Series X hardware stays the same. The Series S is also less powerful. Its base model offers 512GB of storage, with a 1TB version available for $100 more, while the Series X comes with 1TB. The Series X boasts 12 teraflops of processing power and targets 4K resolution, while the Series S has 4 teraflops and reaches up to 1440p in most games. Both can hit 120 fps. The Series X also has a higher-clocked CPU, 52 compute units compared with 20 on the S, and 16GB of RAM against 10GB, making its hardware more complex and expensive.
Which console fits depends on how you play. If you don't own many physical games or plan to rely on Game Pass, the Series S's lack of a disc drive may not matter. Buyers who prefer disc-based sales or like holding a game should choose the Series X. The Series S is also much more compact, about 60 percent smaller than the Series X, making it easier to fit into an entertainment center.
Performance is the other trade-off. The Series S supports 4K upscaling but not native 4K, so if you don't need top visual fidelity all the time, or mostly play less graphically demanding titles, it may be good enough. Performance purists who want the best experience should pick the Series X.
Finally, buyers willing to wait could consider Microsoft's Project Helix devices. These will likely cost more than either current console, and Microsoft plans to send alpha hardware to developers in 2027, so a final product probably won't arrive until at least a year later.
Source: Engadget · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing