Xbox Series S vs Xbox Series X - Helping you Choose
- Raymond van Wyk
- Jul 3
- 4 min read
Microsoft released two incredibly powerful gaming consoles with its Xbox Series range. On the surface, it seems like the only difference is that the Series X can take discs while the Series S is an all-digital system. However, there's a lot more to it, so how do you choose the right one for you?
Let's compare the Series S and Series X consoles to see which one is better for your gaming needs and budget.
In this Comparison:
🧠 Performance & Power Compared
In the table below, it's quite clear that the Xbox Series X has more processing power (CPU), and it's the winner for graphics (GPU). You'll also find it has more RAM and provides 4K resolution.
Feature | Xbox Series X | Xbox Series S |
CPU | 8-Core AMD Zen 2 @ 3.8 GHz | 8-Core AMD Zen 2 @ 3.6 GHz |
GPU Power | 12 Teraflops (RDNA 2) | 4 Teraflops (RDNA 2) |
RAM | 16 GB GDDR6 | 10 GB GDDR6 |
Target Resolution | 4K (up to 120 FPS) | 1440p (upscaled to 4K, up to 120 FPS) |
Things to Consider: While 4K gaming is brilliant, there aren't many games that truly run at 4K. Also, unless you have one of the latest and greatest monitors, there won't be a major difference in graphics.
💾 Storage Compared
The Xbox Series S comes in a 512GB and a 1TB model, while the Xbox Series X is only available in a 1TB model. You can also buy an expansion drive later on, adding another 1TB or more to your storage. However, they are quite expensive.
Series X: 1 TB Custom NVMe SSD (usable: ~802 GB)
Series S 512 GB: 512 GB Custom NVMe SSD (usable: ~364 GB)
Series S 1TB: 1 TB Custom NVMe SSD (usable: ~802 GB)
The hard drive speeds are identical for both the Series S and Series X.
Things to Consider: Games are getting bigger, so if you're planning to have a couple of games on the console at the same time, it might be worth looking at a 1TB model. However, you can also manage your storage by removing games you've played already or adding an expansion drive later, if you need it.
📦 Physical Sizes
Unlike the massive PlayStation 5, both Microsoft consoles are quite small and easy to add to any media system. The consoles look good and can be placed vertically or horizontally.
Console | Size (mm) | Weight |
Series X | 301 × 151 × 151 mm | 4.45 kg |
Series S | 275 × 151 × 63.5 mm | 1.93 kg |
The Xbox Series S is the smaller of the two, but it's not like the Series X is that much bigger. Unless you're working with a very tight space, this shouldn't play a role in determining which Xbox Series is better for you.
💰 Xbox Series S vs. Series X Prices
Here's where the big deciding factor comes in: the price. While everyone would want the mighty Series X, it's double the price of the Series S, which will only be worth the effort to serious gamers.
Series X: R15,999 (R9,999 pre-woned at MobiTraderSA)
Series S 512GB: R8,999 (R5,999 pre-owned at MobiTraderSA)
Series S 1TB: R10,999 (R7,999 pre-owned at MobiTraderSA)
Things to Consider: If you buy the Series S 512GB and add a 1TB expansion drive, it will cost around R14,000. This would give you 1.5TB of space, but you won't be able to play Xbox disc games or have the added performance of the Series X.
Buying a Pre-owned Xbox Series
Buying a pre-owned gaming console is a great way to save money. However, be careful of consoles on the Marketplace, as there's no way of knowing the internal condition.
MobiTraderSA provides excellent prices on reconditioned Xbox Series consoles, ensuring they're in excellent working order, serviced, and cleaned. It's a win-win, you get the best prices, a warranty, and the latest gaming consoles.
Budget-conscious buyers will love the Series S—it offers incredible value for a next-gen machine. But if you're aiming for long-term investment and 4K gaming, the Series X may be worth the extra spend.
🔌 Should you buy the Series S or Series X
The main differences come in with the graphics power and the ability to read discs. Therefore, it's important to consider both those options and what they mean to you.
One great benefit of playing disc games is the ability to resell them once you're done. Digital games are on your account and cannot be sold.
Choose If You Want... | Go With... |
Native 4K gaming and future-proof performance | 🎯 Series X |
Physical disc support for movies and games | 🎯 Series X |
Lower cost and a compact form factor | 🌟 Series S |
Digital gaming only, with no physical media | 🌟 Series S |
Casual or Game Pass-focused play at 1080p/1440p | 🌟 Series S |
🔚 Xbox Series S vs. Xbox Series X Final Thoughts
It's important to be realistic with yourself when comparing the Xbox Series S vs. Xbox Series X and really consider whether you'll actually be using disc games. In our experience, most gamers prefer the convenience of buying online and being able to play immediately.
Sure, you can sell disc games again, and if that's something you want to do, then the Series X is well worth it.
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