Microsoft
Xbox Series S
Best digital console for budget-conscious gamers seeking next-gen performance.
Experience next-generation gaming with the Xbox Series S, Microsoft's compact and digital-only console. It offers a powerful entry point into the latest Xbox titles, supporting a vast library of current and older generation games. Its small form factor makes it ideal for any space, while the fast SSD ensures quick load times. Enjoy stunning visuals up to 1440p, making it a perfect fit for most modern TVs. This console provides excellent value for gamers looking to dive into the expansive Xbox ecosystem without the premium price tag.
$399.99
More Xbox Series Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
24
/ 166
#24 in Video Game Consoles
Price vs Category Average
+0%
Below average
Storage
512
/ GB SSD
Who it's for
- Budget-conscious gamers seeking modern performance at a low price
- Digital collectors needing extra room for large game libraries
- Minimalists and travelers requiring a portable, space-saving console
Who should skip it
- Physical media fans who trade games or buy used discs
- Visual purists demanding native 4K resolution and maximum fidelity
- Future-focused players worried about long-term performance in demanding titles
Performance breakdown
Digital Versatility
Streamlined digital-only interface simplifies game acquisition and library management.
Load Speed
Custom SSD architecture eliminates long waits for gameplay to begin.
Form Factor
Incredibly compact design fits seamlessly into any entertainment setup.
Visual Fidelity
Crisp 1440p output delivers sharp images for most modern displays.
Ecosystem Access
Instant entry into a massive library of current and legacy titles.
Storage Capacity
Limited internal space requires frequent game management for larger libraries.
Key Specs
Storage
512 GB SSD
Max Resolution
1440p
Controller Type
Wireless
Connectivity
Wi-Fi
Media Type
Digital Only
Video Output Ports
HDMI
USB Port Types
USB-A, USB-C
Backward Compatibility
Yes
Features
- Compact, digital-only gaming console
- Access to latest Xbox games
- Fast SSD for quick loading
- Smaller game installs
- Backward compatibility with older titles
- Ideal for budget-conscious gamers
- Supports up to 1440p resolution
- Sleek, modern design
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the Xbox Series S 1TB as the premier entry point for current generation gaming. The expanded 1TB storage successfully resolves the main limitation of the previous model, greatly improving library management. Reviewers consistently highlight the console's exceptional value, delivering smooth next-gen experiences in a remarkably small and quiet design. The sleek Carbon Black finish is also a noted aesthetic improvement. Its seamless integration with Game Pass is a critical appeal factor, offering immediate access to numerous titles. While some miss physical media, most users find the Series S strikes an excellent balance, providing true next-gen features like fast loading times at a fraction of the Series X cost. It is viewed as a powerful, budget-friendly digital machine.
Know before you buy
No, the Xbox Series S is a digital-only console. It does not have a disc drive, so all games must be purchased and downloaded digitally through the Microsoft Store.
The console is designed for a target resolution of 1440p. While it can upscale content to 4K on compatible displays, it does not output native 4K resolution like the more powerful Xbox Series X.
The 512 GB SSD provides enough space for several modern titles, but because games vary in size, you may find yourself managing your library frequently. You can expand your storage using an official Seagate or Western Digital Storage Expansion Card.
Yes, the Xbox Series S features extensive backward compatibility. You can play a vast library of titles from the original Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One generations, provided they are available digitally.
Any TV or monitor with an HDMI input will work. For the best experience, look for a display that supports 1440p resolution and a high refresh rate to take full advantage of the console's performance capabilities.
The Xbox Series S includes one modern wireless controller. It uses standard AA batteries, though you can purchase a separate rechargeable battery pack if you prefer not to use disposables.
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