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The Xbox Series S costs less because Microsoft designed it as a digital-only console with a smaller GPU, less memory, lower internal storage options and a 1440p target instead of the Series X’s native 4K target. The consoles share an eight-core custom Zen 2 CPU, so the price gap is not simply the result of a weaker processor across the board.
What are the main differences between Xbox Series S and Series X?
Microsoft’s current specifications show the differences that matter most to the price and to how each console is used:
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| Feature | Xbox Series S | Xbox Series X |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution target | Designed for 1440p, with the ability to 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 drive | No optical drive; digital-only | Disc-drive configurations are available, as is an all-digital configuration |
| Internal storage options | 512GB or 1TB | 1TB or 2TB |
These specifications are from Microsoft’s Series S product page and Series X product page. Both consoles can reach up to 120 FPS with supported games and a compatible display; that maximum is not a promise that every game runs at that rate.
Why does the Series S cost less?
It has less graphics and memory capability
The Series S GPU is specified at 4 TFLOPS and 20 compute units, compared with 12 TFLOPS and 52 compute units for the Series X. It also has 10GB of GDDR6 memory rather than 16GB. This smaller graphics and memory configuration is consistent with the Series S’s lower resolution target. Microsoft’s specifications do not provide a component-by-component manufacturing cost, so they do not establish how much each difference saves.
#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.
It leaves out the optical disc drive
The Series S plays games digitally and cannot read physical game or movie discs. That is a practical limitation if you own discs or want to buy used physical games. Series X configurations include a disc-drive option, alongside an all-digital model in Microsoft’s current lineup.
Its base storage is smaller
Series S configurations start at 512GB, while Microsoft lists Series X configurations with 1TB or 2TB. Both support a separately sold Xbox Series X|S Storage Expansion Card. If you install many large games, compare the exact storage configuration rather than assuming the console’s headline price includes equal capacity.
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 the simple explanation
Microsoft lists an eight-core custom Zen 2 CPU for both consoles. The Series S is not cheaper because it has fewer CPU cores in the published specifications; the clearest differences are its GPU, memory, disc support, storage choices and intended resolution.
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Microsoft announced US launch prices of $299 for Series S and $499 for Series X in September 2020, a $200 difference at launch. These are historical launch prices, not current retail prices. Microsoft’s September 2020 announcement explains the original price positioning; current prices and availability vary by market, retailer and configuration.
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 fits your needs?
- Consider Series S if you want a lower upfront-cost option, use a digital game library and do not need native 4K as your console’s target.
- Consider Series X if native 4K capability, playing physical discs or choosing a larger built-in storage configuration matters to you.
- Compare local listings for the specific storage and disc-drive model you would buy. Microsoft notes that prices and availability can vary by retailer and market.
These are differences in design and published capability, not guarantees about every game’s resolution or frame rate; individual results depend on the game and its supported features.
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.
