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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The Xbox Series S costs less because Microsoft built it as a digital-only, lower-cost console: it has no disc drive, a smaller GPU and memory configuration, a 1440p gaming target with 4K upscaling, and less internal storage in its base model. The Series X targets native 4K and offers substantially stronger graphics hardware. Both consoles share an eight-core custom Zen 2 CPU, so the price gap is not simply a difference in every component.
What are the main differences between the Xbox Series S and Series X?
Microsoft’s specifications show where the consoles diverge—and where they do not:
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| Feature | Xbox Series S | Xbox Series X |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming resolution target | Designed for 1440p; can upscale to 4K | Designed for native 4K |
| GPU | 4 TFLOPS; 20 compute units | 12 TFLOPS; 52 compute units |
| Memory | 10GB GDDR6 | 16GB GDDR6 |
| CPU | Eight-core custom Zen 2 | Eight-core custom Zen 2 |
| Disc support | Digital-only; does not play physical discs | Disc-drive configurations are available, as well as an all-digital configuration |
| Internal storage configurations | 512GB or 1TB SSD | 1TB or 2TB SSD |
These are published hardware and feature specifications, not a promise that every game will run at a particular resolution or frame rate. Both consoles can reach up to 120 FPS with supported content and a compatible display. See Microsoft’s console comparison and Series S specifications for configuration and feature details.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesWhy does the Series S cost less?
It has no optical disc drive
The Series S is built for digital games and other digital content. It cannot play physical game discs, so buyers who own disc-based Xbox games or want to buy and play physical copies need a disc-drive console. The Series X lineup includes disc-drive configurations, alongside an all-digital version.
#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.
Its graphics hardware and memory are smaller
The Series S GPU is rated at 4 TFLOPS with 20 compute units and pairs with 10GB of GDDR6 memory. The Series X is rated at 12 TFLOPS with 52 compute units and 16GB of GDDR6. That difference underpins the consoles’ different graphics targets: Microsoft positions the S for 1440p gaming with 4K upscaling, and the X for native 4K.
Its base storage is smaller
The Series S is offered with either a 512GB or 1TB SSD, while Series X configurations listed by Microsoft include 1TB and 2TB. Both consoles support a separately sold Xbox Series X|S Storage Expansion Card. A smaller starting capacity can mean less room for installed games, so storage needs are worth weighing alongside the initial price.
Rank #2
- What's in the box: Xbox Series S 512GB console, 1 Xbox 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 FP.
- HDMI Features: Auto Low Latency Mode, HDMI Variable Refresh Rate, AMD FreeSync.
The CPU is not a simple downgrade
Both consoles list an eight-core custom Zen 2 CPU. The Series S is not cheaper because it has fewer CPU cores according to Microsoft’s specifications; the key published differences are its GPU, memory, resolution target, disc support, and available storage capacities.
What did the consoles cost at launch?
Microsoft’s September 2020 US launch announcement set the Series S at $299 and the Series X at $499. Those historical launch prices explain the original price positioning; they are not current retail prices. Microsoft says prices and availability can vary by retailer, and configurations vary by market. Check local listings for the exact model and bundle you are considering rather than using the 2020 figures as today’s price comparison. See Microsoft’s September 2020 launch announcement.
Rank #3
- Access your favorite entertainment through apps like YouTube, Netflix, and more
- Enjoy over 100 games right out of the box with a 1 month Xbox Game Pass trial
- Watch 4K Blu-ray movies and stream 4K video on Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Microsoft Movies & TV, and more
- Play with friends and family near and farsitting together on the sofa or around the world on Xbox Live, the fastest, most reliable gaming network
- Xbox One games and accessories work together
Which console makes more sense for you?
- Consider the Series S if you use a digital game library, are comfortable with its 1440p target and 4K upscaling, and want the lower upfront-cost option. Check whether the specific storage configuration suits your library.
- Consider a disc-drive Series X if playing physical discs matters to you, or if native 4K capability and the larger storage configurations better fit your needs.
- Compare all-digital models carefully if you do not need a disc drive. The Series X also has an all-digital configuration, so compare the exact models available in your market rather than assuming every Series X includes a drive.
The specifications describe design targets and hardware capability, not guaranteed results for every title. Actual resolution and frame rate depend on the game and its supported modes.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 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.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
