Xbox Series X vs Xbox Series S
Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S are both current Xbox consoles, but they target very different budgets and TV setups. Series X is the stronger choice for 4K gaming, larger storage, and disc-drive options, while Series S is the cheaper digital Xbox built for Game Pass and 1440p play. This comparison looks at performance, storage, discs, Game Pass, and value.
Last updated: August 11, 2026
Microsoft Xbox
Xbox Series X
A full-power Xbox console built for 4K gaming, storage, and premium TV setups.
Microsoft Xbox
Xbox Series S
A compact digital Xbox built for affordable Game Pass gaming and smaller setups.
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Specifications
Pros & Cons
Xbox Series X — Pros
Xbox Series X — Cons
Xbox Series S — Pros
Xbox Series S — Cons
Where it shines
Where it shines
Our Verdict
Xbox Series X is usually the better fit if you want the full Xbox experience. It gives you stronger performance, better 4K gaming headroom, larger storage options, and the choice of disc-drive models if you still buy physical games or Blu-ray discs. For a main living-room console connected to a good 4K TV, Series X makes more sense. Xbox Series S is usually the better fit if you want the cheapest practical way into modern Xbox gaming. It is small, quiet, digital-only, and works well with Game Pass. It is not built to match Series X visually, but it does not need to. Its job is to make Xbox cheaper and simpler. The real decision is not just X versus S. It is main console versus budget console. Series X is the stronger long-term machine. Series S is the smarter low-cost entry if digital gaming and Game Pass are enough for you.
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Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Xbox Series X if...
Choose Xbox Series S if...
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Xbox Series X much better than Xbox Series S?
A: Yes, if you care about 4K gaming, visual quality, storage, and disc-drive options. Series S still plays many current Xbox games, but Series X has stronger hardware and is the better match for a large 4K TV.
Q: What is the main difference between Xbox Series X and Series S?
A: The main difference is power and format. Xbox Series X targets native 4K gaming and can include a disc drive, while Xbox Series S is all-digital and designed for 1440p gaming with 4K upscaling.
Q: Can Xbox Series S play the same games as Xbox Series X?
A: Mostly, yes. Both are part of the same Xbox generation and share the same Xbox ecosystem. The difference is usually how games look and perform, not whether the game exists on the console.
Q: Does Xbox Series S have a disc drive?
A: No. Xbox Series S is all-digital. Microsoft says disc-based games are not compatible with either the 512GB or 1TB Series S consoles. If discs matter, choose a Series X disc-drive model.
Q: Is Xbox Series X worth it for a 1080p TV?
A: Sometimes, but Series S may be enough for many 1080p setups. Series X still gives better performance headroom and more storage, but its biggest advantage shows on a 4K TV or high-refresh gaming monitor.
Q: Which Xbox is better for Game Pass?
A: Both work well with Game Pass. Series S is the cheaper Game Pass machine, while Series X gives you the better Game Pass experience on a 4K TV with more power and storage.
Q: Should I buy Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S in 2026?
A: Buy Xbox Series X if you want the best Xbox performance, 4K gaming, more storage, and disc-drive options. Buy Xbox Series S if price, small size, and digital Game Pass access matter more.
Sources & References
Prices, features and specifications in this comparison were verified from official sources.
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