Originally published November 5, 2020; current pricing and subscription context updated August 2026.
Microsoft’s Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S were substantial improvements over the Xbox One family, but they did not launch with the kind of exclusive software that traditionally defines a new console generation. The Series X delivered its biggest gains through dramatically faster loading, Quick Resume, smoother performance, backward compatibility, and a more responsive interface. The Series S offered the same ecosystem at a much lower historical launch price, but its smaller storage, lower performance ceiling, and digital-only design made it a compromise rather than simply a cheaper Series X.
The launch verdict was straightforward: Series X was a major quality-of-life upgrade, while both consoles represented a modest generational leap in visual and software terms.
What this review covered
This was a pre-launch review of both Microsoft consoles, not a review of one model. Microsoft supplied early retail hardware, and the article was published on November 5, 2020—five days before the consoles launched on November 10. Some expected launch-window games were not available for testing, so the conclusions were necessarily provisional.
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#1 Best Overall
- BEST VALUE IN GAMING — Experience next-gen speed and performance in the smallest XBOX ever. The XBOX Series S delivers powerful all-digital gameplay in a sleek, compact design.
- UP TO 120 FPS GAMEPLAY — Enjoy smooth, responsive gaming with frame rates up to 120 FPS, powered by XBOX Velocity Architecture, a custom NVMe SSD, and DirectX Raytracing for a heightened level of realism.
- 512GB CUSTOM SSD AND XBOX VELOCITY ARCHITECTURE — Reduce load times dramatically with the custom 512GB NVMe SSD and XBOX Velocity Architecture, enabling lightning-fast performance and seamless world streaming.
- QUICK RESUME — Seamlessly switch between multiple games and resume exactly where you left off. No more waiting through title screens and loading bars.
- FOUR GENERATIONS OF DIGITAL GAMES — Play thousands of digital games from XBOX Series X|S, XBOX One, XBOX 360, and Original XBOX with backward compatibility. Many titles are enhanced for better visuals and performance. Smart Delivery ensures you always get the best version for your console.
The Xbox Series X was the premium model: it included a disc drive, roughly 1TB of internal storage, and the highest performance available in the Xbox family. The Xbox Series S was the smaller, all-digital console, available in 512GB and later 1TB configurations, with substantially lower graphics performance and less usable storage.
| Xbox Series X | Xbox Series S | |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning | Premium console | Budget, digital-only console |
| Disc drive | Yes | No |
| Storage | Larger internal SSD | Smaller internal SSD; 512GB and 1TB variants |
| Performance | Higher performance ceiling and 4K-oriented use | Lower-resolution target and less graphics headroom |
| Best suited to | 4K televisions, physical libraries, heavy users | Digital libraries, smaller spaces, lower budgets |
| Main risk | Higher purchase price and expansion-storage cost | Storage management and performance compromises |
The historical U.S. launch prices were $499.99 for Series X and $299.99 for Series S. Those are launch figures, not current recommendations. Microsoft announced worldwide console price increases effective August 1, 2026, including increases of $100 for 512GB models and $150 for 1TB models, although the cited announcement does not clearly enumerate every resulting U.S. retail price. Check Microsoft or a retailer before buying.
The upgrade you feel every day
Loading and responsiveness
The most convincing Series X improvement was not a screenshot. It was the removal of waiting. Games launched faster, transitions were shorter, menus responded more quickly, and the system felt less sluggish than an Xbox One equipped with a mechanical hard drive.
That matters because loading is repeated constantly. A modest visual improvement may be easy to miss from the sofa, but faster startup and fewer pauses affect almost every play session. The SSD also made it practical to suspend games and move between them with Quick Resume. The review observed switching among as many as six games during launch-period testing; treat that as an observation from the review window rather than a permanent universal specification.
Higher frame rates
Compatible games could offer 60-frame-per-second performance modes, and some supported up to 120 FPS. Higher frame rates generally made camera movement and input feel smoother, particularly in action games and shooters. The exact result depended on the title, display, resolution mode, and developer implementation.
Other improvements included faster asset streaming, improved lighting, and ray tracing in compatible games. These were real technical gains, but they did not produce a uniform visual transformation across the entire launch library.
A refined controller and easier setup
The updated Xbox Wireless Controller added a textured grip, a revised D-pad, and a dedicated Share button. It remained familiar rather than radically redesigned, which was useful for existing Xbox owners.
Microsoft also made moving from Xbox One less disruptive. Cloud-based transfer could bring saves and settings across during setup, while broad compatibility with Xbox One controllers and many third-party accessories reduced the cost of changing consoles.
How big was the visual jump?
The answer depended heavily on the game. Series X supported 4K-oriented output and 4K modes in compatible titles, but it did not run every game at native 4K. Developers could choose between resolution, visual-quality, and frame-rate modes.
Rank #2
- What's in the box: Xbox Series S 512GB console, 1 Wireless Controller, High Speed HDMI cable.
- CPU: 8X Cores @ 3.6 GHz (3.4 GHz w/SMT) Custom Zen 2 CPU; GPU: 4 TFLOPS, 20 CUs @1.565 GHz Custom RDNA 2 GPU; SOC Die Size: 197.05 mm2.
- Memory: 10GB GDDR6 128 bit-wide bus; Memory Bandwidth: 8GB @ 224 GB/s, 2GB @ 56 GB/s.; Internal Storage: 512GB Custom NVME SSD
- Gaming Resolution: 1440p; Performance Target: Up to 120 FPS; HDMI Features: Auto Low Latency Mode, HDMI Variable Refresh Rate, AMD FreeSync.
Series S was positioned around a lower resolution than Series X. Launch-era descriptions referred to output as high as 1440p, while contemporary guidance sometimes described it as a 1080p-oriented machine. Those statements are not necessarily contradictory: actual resolution varies by game, and “up to” or “target” figures are not universal guarantees. Microsoft currently lists support for features such as up to 120 FPS in supported games, not every game.
The more meaningful generational change was therefore a bundle of improvements:
- SSD-based loading instead of hard-drive-era waits;
- more stable and higher frame rates where games supported them;
- faster menus, installs, and transitions;
- Quick Resume;
- better performance in many older games;
- and compatibility with a large existing Xbox library.
For many players, those changes could feel transformative without producing a dramatic difference in side-by-side screenshots.
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The hardware was ready before the software was. Several launch-window games were enhanced ports or cross-generation releases rather than experiences that could only exist on Series X|S. Gears 5 and Ori and the Will of the Wisps demonstrated improved performance, but neither was a new-generation exclusive. Halo Infinite, the expected showcase, had not arrived.
The review also could not test every important launch title before publication. That matters when evaluating a launch console: a reviewer may accurately describe the hardware while still lacking evidence about the final breadth of the software lineup.
Microsoft’s first-party strategy further blurred the traditional meaning of a console exclusive. Major Xbox games were also being released on Windows PC. That was good for consumer access, but it reduced the number of launch-only reasons to buy the console. The precise criticism is not “Xbox had no games.” It is that Xbox had few games that forced someone to buy this hardware immediately.
That contrasted with the stronger launch-software proposition associated with PlayStation coverage at the time. A buyer choosing between platforms therefore had to decide whether convenience, backward compatibility, and Game Pass mattered more than access to platform-specific first-party releases.
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Series X versus Series S
Why Series S was attractive
- Its historical $299.99 launch price was $200 below Series X.
- Its compact, lightweight design suited bedrooms, offices, children’s rooms, and secondary televisions.
- Its SSD still provided a much faster experience than Xbox One’s hard drive.
- It accessed the same broad Xbox ecosystem and digital library.
- It supported features such as Quick Resume and, in compatible games, frame rates up to 120 FPS.
- It made sense for casual players and people who bought games digitally.
Microsoft’s current Series S materials confirm its digital-only design, controller and accessory compatibility, and support for next-generation features. Digital-only means more than “no Blu-ray.” It also means that a buyer must purchase games through the Xbox digital store or access them through an applicable subscription.
Why Series X was the safer long-term purchase
Series X offered a higher performance ceiling, more storage, a disc drive, and a better fit for 4K televisions and demanding AAA games. The disc drive also mattered to owners of physical Xbox One, Xbox 360, or original Xbox games.
Rank #3
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
The review’s strongest criticism of Series S was not merely lower resolution. It was the combination of lower graphics performance, no physical-media option, limited usable storage, large modern game installations, and the likely need to buy expansion storage. A cheap console can lose much of its advantage if the owner soon needs an expensive storage card and cannot use a discounted physical game.
Choose Series X if you own physical games, use a 4K television, play large AAA releases regularly, want the best console version of multiplatform games, or plan to keep many games installed.
Choose Series S if you are entirely digital, prioritize size and entry cost, mainly play smaller games or backward-compatible titles, and accept uninstalling, reinstalling, archiving, or eventually expanding your storage.
Game Pass was the launch value argument
In 2020, the review’s main value case was Game Pass. At the time, console Game Pass cost $9.99 per month and Game Pass Ultimate cost $14.99 per month. Ultimate combined a large rotating catalog with console online benefits and other access, making a new console easier to justify for players who wanted to try many games rather than purchase each one individually.
Historical-price warning: those figures belong to the 2020 review and should not be used for a current purchase decision.
Microsoft’s April 21, 2026 update lists Game Pass Ultimate at $22.99 per month and PC Game Pass at $13.99 per month in the United States. The current Ultimate page advertises more than 500 games, but catalogs rotate and benefits differ by tier. Microsoft’s current materials also specifically say Call of Duty titles are excluded from day-one Game Pass availability. Prices, catalog size, regional availability, and release policies can change.
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Backward compatibility and ownership
Backward compatibility was one of Microsoft’s strongest launch advantages. Series X|S supported selected Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games, often with faster loading or improved performance. Microsoft’s current materials describe thousands of games across four Xbox generations, but compatibility remains title-specific rather than universal.
Digital compatible games appear in the user’s library. For a compatible disc game, the disc generally remains required as the ownership check, even though the console installs the game to storage. Series S cannot use physical discs at all.
Rank #4
- 【Necessary for Xbox Series X】---- This product integrates many functions, such as top cooling fan, dust-proof, light strip, USB interface for data transmission and USB port for charging. It helps to prevent for Xbox Series X console from over-heating and dust to extend the life of your console. (NOTE:When the console is working, the dust cover of the fan can be removed to speed up the heat dissipation effect. Alige the two holes under the dust cover first, then cover the dust cover.)
- 【Efficient Fan System】---- A high-speed large fan are built in the colorful dust-proof cooling fan，which can accelerate the hot air exhausted from the top of the console and reduce the temperature for Xbox series X console. The cooling fan stand with 3 gears and is a touch switch. The low gear is orange, the second gear is blue, and the high gear is green.The heat dissipation effect is more obvious, and the noise is very low, which you can hardly feel.
- 【Colorful Light Strip】---- The cooling bracket for Xbox seris X supports colorful lights and can change the light color with an independent touch switch. The light strip contains 6 monochromes and 1 mixed color. You can use the independent touch switch to change your favorite colors and own a more atmosphere in the process of the game. (NOTE: pressing the light switch for the 7th time will turn light off.)
- 【3.0 USB & USB Charge Port】---- There are 2 USB interfaces in total, one blue 3.0 USB interface supports 3.0 data transmission, another white 2.0 sub interfaces ONLY can charge more products, such as controller, mobile phones, small desk lamps, etc.It is convenient to provide USB interface in the process of your game.
- 【Dust Cover Filter】---- The cooling top bracket for Xbox seris X supports top dust proof,At the same time, the product contains 2 sets * dust cover compatible with Xbox Series X, 1 set * silicone dust plugs,which have accurate size and easy to install and replace without additional tools. Prevent dust from entering the USB and HDMI ports for Xbox Series X, extend the life of your console.
There are important limits. Kinect-dependent Xbox One games were a notable exception discussed in the original review, and compatibility does not guarantee that every old online service, peripheral, or feature survives. A compatible game is not necessarily a remaster; enhancements vary by title.
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Series X|S represented Microsoft’s shift from selling a console defined primarily by exclusive software to selling access to a platform. The console offered a convenient way to use Xbox services, play an existing library, and access Game Pass. Many first-party games were also available on PC, and Microsoft’s broader ecosystem reduced the need to own the console itself.
That strategy has two interpretations. Traditional console buyers could reasonably see the lack of launch-only software as a weakness. But players benefited from more ways to access the same games, while existing Xbox owners received a faster and more polished way to use the library they already had.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Common ownership problems and misunderstandings
“120 FPS” is not guaranteed
It means the console and game can support that feature in compatible circumstances. Many titles target 30 or 60 FPS, and a 120 FPS mode may require a compatible display and a trade-off in resolution or visual effects.
Resolution labels are not universal
“4K,” “1440p,” and “1080p” can describe targets, output modes, or marketing positioning. Actual internal resolution may change dynamically, and performance modes vary by title.
Series S storage fills quickly
Large optimized games can consume a significant share of the usable internal drive. External USB storage can be useful for archiving or playing older games, but it does not replace the fast internal or approved expansion storage requirement for every optimized title. A proprietary expansion card is convenient, but potentially expensive.
Physical ownership does not transfer to Series S
A physical Xbox game cannot be used on Series S. Series X can use compatible discs, but the disc normally remains inserted as the license check.
Game Pass is not permanent ownership
Access depends on an active subscription and the game remaining in the catalog, unless you purchase it separately. Online multiplayer and free-to-play access rules can also differ by game and plan, so verify the current Xbox requirements rather than relying on a blanket assumption.
Early hardware reports need perspective
Contemporary reports of noisy or defective disc drives were launch-period anecdotes, not proof that every console had a defect. Early hardware can have first-generation problems, but isolated reports should not be generalized to the entire product line.
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Best Value
- PLAY LIKE A PRO — The XBOX Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 features over 30 ways to play like a pro. Designed in collaboration with pro-level players, it puts exceptional performance, customization, and durability where it matters most.
- ADJUSTABLE-TENSION THUMBSTICKS — Fine-tune your aim with thumbsticks that let you adjust resistance for improved accuracy, consistency, and control in every match.
- SHORTER HAIR TRIGGER LOCKS — Fire faster and react quicker with three-step hair trigger locks that reduce pull distance for rapid input in competitive gameplay.
- INTERCHANGEABLE COMPONENTS — Swap thumbstick toppers, D-pads, and paddles to tailor your controller to your preferred gaming style. Includes 6 thumbsticks, 4 paddles, 2 D-pads, carrying case, and charging dock.
- SAVE AND SWITCH PROFILES — Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly with the dedicated Profile button. Even pick which color the XBOX button lights up as.
Who should buy, skip, or choose an alternative?
Buy Series X when
- You own physical Xbox games.
- You have a 4K television.
- You regularly play large AAA games.
- This will be your primary console for several years.
- You want more storage and fewer uninstall/reinstall cycles.
- You care about the strongest console performance on multiplatform releases.
Buy Series S when
- The lowest entry cost and smallest footprint matter most.
- You have an entirely digital library.
- The console is for occasional or secondary-room use.
- You mainly play smaller games, older compatible titles, or selected Game Pass games.
- You accept active storage management and possible expansion costs.
- You do not expect maximum resolution or graphics settings.
Keep your existing console, use PC, or buy refurbished when
Keeping an Xbox One X can be sensible if your preferred games remain cross-generation and faster loading is not worth the cost. A capable gaming PC may be the better route for someone already inside Microsoft’s PC ecosystem. PlayStation 5 is a stronger alternative for readers whose priority is platform-specific first-party software, while Nintendo hardware is the better fit for portability and Nintendo-exclusive games rather than comparable performance.
Price-sensitive buyers should also compare used, certified-refurbished, or previously played consoles. Microsoft announced certified-refurbished units could be up to $100 below MSRP, subject to availability, alongside its 2026 price update. Check warranty coverage, exact storage configuration, and return terms before buying.
Xbox All Access financing can reduce the upfront payment by combining a console and subscription, but the monthly figure can obscure the total 24-month cost. Eligibility, region, model, and current offer determine the actual terms; paying upfront is usually clearer if you do not expect to keep the subscription for the full term.
Final verdict
Xbox Series X was a big step forward because it made Xbox One’s everyday friction largely disappear. Loading was dramatically shorter, the interface was faster, Quick Resume changed how games were accessed, backward compatibility was unusually strong, and supported titles delivered smoother performance.
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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsIt was not a leap because the launch software did not provide enough exclusive, system-selling experiences, and the visual difference varied greatly from game to game. Series S made the ecosystem more accessible, but its storage and digital-only limitations were serious enough that heavy users were better served by Series X.
The original review’s thesis still works as historical analysis: Microsoft’s ninth-generation hardware was a major refinement of the Xbox experience, but the launch did not force every Xbox One owner to upgrade immediately. The 2026 decision is different because console prices and Game Pass economics have changed, so buyers should evaluate current cost, storage, ownership preferences, and the games they actually intend to play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Xbox Series X launch with many exclusive games?
No. Its launch lineup included enhanced and cross-generation games, but there were few launch-only reasons to buy the hardware. The absence of Halo Infinite was especially significant to the original review’s assessment.
Is Xbox Series S just a cheaper Series X?
No. It is a different ownership proposition: digital-only, lower-powered, and fitted with less storage. It is attractive for casual digital users, but less suitable for physical-game owners, 4K enthusiasts, and people with large installed libraries.
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No. Series X|S supports selected Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox titles. Compatible physical games require the disc as a license check, while Series S supports digital games only.
Is Game Pass still the same bargain it was in 2020?
The value depends on usage, but the economics changed. The original review cited $9.99 console Game Pass and $14.99 Ultimate. Microsoft’s 2026 U.S. update lists Ultimate at $22.99 per month, with multiple tiers, rotating catalogs, and different release policies.
The Bottom Line
Bottom line: Series X was the right launch choice for enthusiasts and serious Xbox owners; Series S was a clever but storage-constrained budget option. The consoles improved speed and convenience more dramatically than they changed launch visuals or software, making them a big step forward—but not a leap.
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