Since the launch of the latest generation of video game consoles in November 2020, consumers have been evaluating the merits of upgrading from their older machines. The scenario changed considerably recently. With games like Final Fantasy XVI and Starfield being exclusive to the new generation of consoles, and older consoles being skipped for upcoming major releases, a significant shift in consumer behavior has been noted. For instance, following the release of Starfield, Amazon reported a surge of over 1000% in orders for the Xbox Series X.
In this landscape, the Xbox Series S, a less expensive alternative to the Xbox Series X, is worth considering. This article aims to offer an in-depth review of the Xbox Series S, comparing it with its pricier sibling, the Xbox Series X, to determine its value proposition for potential buyers.
The New Revision: Addressing Storage Concerns
One of the significant drawbacks of the initial Xbox Series S was its limited storage capacity. The advertised 512GB storage actually offered only around 380GB of usable space. However, Microsoft has recently addressed this issue by launching a revision of the Series S. The updated console now advertises a 1TB storage, with more than 800GB of usable space. Priced at $550, this change adds significant value to the console, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers.
Performance Metrics: A Detailed Comparison
While the Xbox Series S may seem underpowered on paper, boasting only a third of the graphical power compared to the Xbox Series X, it shares the same processor and lightning-fast storage. In practice, most games run similarly on both consoles, albeit at a lower resolution on the Series S.
A Tale of Two Xboxes: Specs Comparison Chart
| Feature | Xbox Series X | Xbox Series S 1TB |
|---|---|---|
| Game resolution | 4K | 1440p |
| Maximum frame rate | 120fps | 120fps |
| Storage | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD |
| Disc drive | Yes | No |
| Graphical power | 12 TFLOPS | 4 TFLOPS |
| RAM | 16GB | 10GB |
| Weight | 4.5kg | 2kg |
| Price | $800 | $550 |
Having played the game Starfield on both the Series X and Series S, it is observed that the performance metrics like game smoothness and loading times are nearly identical. The main difference lies in texture detail and rendering distance, which are less impressive on the Series S but not severely so.
Additional Features and Compatibility
Despite its limitations, the Series S offers next-gen features such as Dolby Vision and Quick Resume. It also maintains compatibility with a wide range of games, from the newest releases to 20-year-old classics, which now run better on the current generation hardware.
Shortcomings and Future Implications
One notable limitation is the absence of an optical drive, which rules it out for fans of physical games or Blu-ray movies. However, the console does support 4K streaming apps. Additionally, pairing the Series S with an $11-per-month Game Pass subscription can offset the need for physical games.
Furthermore, there are concerns about future game releases. For example, the recent controversy surrounding Baldur’s Gate III’s PS5 release, which initially skipped the Xbox due to issues with the Series S, indicates potential limitations developers might face when pushing for high-performance games.
Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons
The Xbox Series S emerges as a cost-effective entry into next-gen gaming, especially after the recent update that doubled its storage capacity. While it may not replace the Series X for those who seek the highest performance and graphical capabilities, it offers an excellent gaming experience for its price point.
Therefore, for most consumers, especially those on a budget, the Xbox Series S stands as a viable option worth considering for an upgrade to the latest generation of gaming consoles.
