Xbox One S Vs Xbox Series S – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Xbox One S & Xbox Series S share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Xbox Series S rather than the Xbox One S.

Why Do I Recommend The Xbox Series S

  • The Xbox Series S features a significantly more powerful CPU (AMD Zen 2) for better performance to play modern games compared to the Xbox One S’s AMD Jaguar CPU.
  • It has a custom RDNA 2 GPU with 20 compute units delivering 4 TFLOPS of graphical processing power & offering much more immersive visual experiences compared to the 1.4 TFLOPS of the Xbox One S’s GCN GPU.
  • The Xbox S supports both ray tracing and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), which offer more dynamic and visually appealing gaming experiences. These features are absent in the Xbox One S.
  • It supports native 1440p resolution with up to 120 FPS, providing high-quality visuals & smooth motion. In contrast, the Xbox One S supports native 1080p games.
  • Xbox Series S comes with a 512GB NVMe SSD, enabling much faster load times and smoother gaming experiences. In contrast, the Xbox One S’s traditional 1TB HDD.
  • The Xbox S offers full backward compatibility for Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox titles, while the Xbox One S doesn’t support next-gen enhancements.
  • It also features Auto Low Latency Mode & Quick Resume to switch between multiple games seamlessly without losing progress. The Xbox One S lacks these modern gaming technologies.

Maybe the Xbox One S price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Xbox Series S. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureXbox Series SXbox One S
Release DateNovember 10, 2020August 2, 2016
ArchitectureAMD Zen 2, RDNA 2 AMD Jaguar, GCN 
CPU (Processor)Custom AMD Zen 2 – 8 cores @ 3.6GHzCustom AMD Jaguar – 8 cores @ 1.75GHz
GPUAMD RDNA 2 – 20 CUs @ 1.565GHz, 4 TFLOPSAMD GCN – 12 CUs @ 914MHz, 1.4 TFLOPS
RAM10GB GDDR6 8GB DDR3 
Memory Bandwidth224GB/s218GB/s 
Internal Storage512GB NVMe SSD 1TB HDD 
External StorageUSB 3.1 USB 3.0 
Resolution1440p @ 4K UpscalingNative 1080p, 4K upscaling
Frame RateUp to 120 FPS30 FPS or 60 FPS 
Ray TracingYes No
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)Yes No
Auto HDRYes No
Backwards CompatibilityXbox One, Xbox 360, original XboxXbox 360 and original Xbox
Smart DeliveryYes No
Game Load Times5-10x faster loadingSlow due to HDD
Operating SystemOptimized for Xbox Series S/X Xbox One OS, slower
User Interface (UI)Modernized UI Slower UI
Game InstallationsDigital-only Physical (discs), digital
Power SupplyIntegrated power supply External power brick
Dimensions10.8 x 5.9 x 2.6 inches 11.6 x 8.9 x 2.5 inches 
Weight4.25 lbs (lighter)6.4 lbs (heavier)
ControllerNew Xbox Wireless ControllerStandard Xbox One Controller 
HDMI VersionHDMI 2.1 HDMI 2.0
Cloud Gaming SupportFully supported Limited support
Audio OutputDolby Atmos, DTS5.1 / 7.1 surround sound
PriceCheck Series S PriceCheck One S Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Brand & Ecosystem: Both consoles are part of Microsoft’s Xbox family, meaning they share the same ecosystem. This results in a similar experience in terms of the operating system, digital store, subscriptions, and overall interface. Users can easily transition between the two consoles and continue using the same Xbox profile, games, and services.
  • Operating System: Both the Xbox Series S and Xbox One S run a version of the Xbox OS, which is based on Windows 10. This allows for a consistent user interface, similar navigation, and support for similar apps and services, like streaming, browsing, and gaming.
  • Controller Compatibility: Both consoles support the Xbox Wireless Controller with Bluetooth. This means that the same controllers can be used interchangeably between the Series S and the One S. They also support backward compatibility with older Xbox controllers and accessories.
  • Backward Compatibility: While the Xbox Series S has full backward compatibility, the Xbox One S also supports a significant library of backward-compatible games from the Xbox 360 and original Xbox libraries. This means users can play older generation games on both consoles, although the Series S has broader support and enhancements for these titles.
  • Game Pass Support: Both consoles support Xbox Game Pass, Microsoft’s game subscription service that offers access to a large library of games, including first-party and third-party titles. While the performance may differ, users on both consoles can access the same Game Pass library and enjoy new releases on day one.
  • Xbox Live Support: Both systems support Xbox Live Gold, Microsoft’s online service for multiplayer gaming, free monthly games, and discounts. Users can play multiplayer games, chat with friends, and take advantage of Xbox Live services on either console.
  • Streaming Services: The Xbox Series S and Xbox One S both function as home entertainment hubs, with access to major streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and others. Both systems support 4K media playback for streaming apps (though native 4K gaming is only on the Series X or One X).
  • Digital Store: Both consoles have access to the Microsoft Store, where users can purchase games, apps, and media content. The same store operates on both platforms, offering access to all titles digitally.
  • Cloud Saves: Both consoles support cloud saves, allowing users to store game progress in the cloud. This makes it easier to switch between consoles or access game saves on another Xbox or even on PC through Xbox Play Anywhere titles.
  • USB Ports: Both consoles come with three USB ports (USB 3.0 on Xbox One S and USB 3.1 on Xbox Series S). These ports can be used for external storage, charging controllers, or connecting other peripherals.
  • Wi-Fi and Networking: Both consoles support dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11ac) and have Ethernet ports for wired connections. This ensures consistent online performance for streaming, downloading, and online gaming.
  • HDR Support: Both the Xbox Series S and Xbox One S support HDR10 for enhanced contrast and color when playing supported games or watching HDR content. Although the Series S offers better visual fidelity in games, both support this key media feature.
  • Audio Output: Both consoles support Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1 surround sound, ensuring high-quality audio for gaming and media. This allows users to enjoy immersive audio experiences, especially when using surround sound setups.
  • Bluetooth Support: Both consoles support Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to connect wireless controllers and compatible headsets seamlessly. This is a vital feature for wireless gaming and modern gaming setups.
  • Parental Controls: Both consoles feature robust parental controls with the Xbox family settings. This allows parents to control screen time, set age-appropriate content, and manage online interactions for child accounts on both consoles.
  • Subscription Services: Both consoles support subscription services like Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Live Gold, and EA Play. This enables users to access exclusive content, new releases, multiplayer gaming, and a massive library of games.
  • Video Playback: Both consoles support 4K UHD media playback (upscaled) for streaming services and media apps. While the Series S is better at upscaling games, both consoles can deliver high-quality 4K media streaming.

Common Features

FeatureXbox Series SXbox One S
BrandMicrosoftMicrosoft
Operating SystemXbox OS Xbox OS 
Controller CompatibilityXbox Wireless ControllerXbox Wireless Controller 
Backward CompatibilityYesYes 
Game Pass SupportYes Yes 
Xbox Live SupportYes Yes 
Streaming ServicesNetflix, Hulu, Disney+Netflix, Hulu, Disney+
Digital StoreMicrosoft Store Microsoft Store
Cloud SavesSupports cloud game savesSupports cloud game saves
Wi-Fi SupportYes (802.11ac, dual-band)Yes (802.11ac, dual-band)
NetworkingEthernet and Wi-FiEthernet and Wi-Fi
HDR SupportYes (HDR10)Yes (HDR10)
Audio OutputDolby Digital, DTS 5.1Dolby Digital, DTS 5.1
Bluetooth SupportYes (for controllers, headsets)Yes (for controllers, headsets)
Parental ControlsFamily settingsFamily settings
Subscription ServicesXbox Game Pass, Xbox Live Gold, EA PlayXbox Game Pass, Xbox Live Gold, EA Play
Video PlaybackSupports 4K UHD media playbackSupports 4K UHD media playback
PriceCheck Series S PriceCheck One S Price

FAQ

Q: Are the Xbox Series S and Xbox One S compatible with the same games?

A: Yes, both consoles are compatible with many of the same games. The Xbox Series S supports all Xbox One titles, along with backward compatibility for select Xbox 360 and original Xbox games. Additionally, the Xbox Series S can play new next-gen games designed specifically for the Series consoles, while the Xbox One S cannot run next-gen-only titles. Both consoles support games from the Xbox Game Pass library.

Q: Can I use my Xbox One S controller with the Xbox Series S?

A: Yes, the Xbox One S controller is fully compatible with the Xbox Series S. Both consoles support the Xbox Wireless Controller via Bluetooth, and accessories like headsets are also cross-compatible between the two consoles.

Q: Do both consoles support 4K resolution?

A: Yes and no. The Xbox One S supports 4K upscaling for video content like movies and streaming services, but it does not support native 4K gaming. The Xbox Series S also upscales to 4K for video content, but its gaming output is primarily at 1440p (2K) resolution, which can be upscaled to 4K if needed for display purposes.

Q: Is the Xbox Series S digital-only?

A: Yes, the Xbox Series S is an all-digital console and does not come with an optical drive, meaning you cannot play physical discs like Blu-ray movies or game discs. The Xbox One S, on the other hand, has a 4K UHD Blu-ray drive, allowing users to play physical game discs and media.

Q: Does both the Xbox Series S and Xbox One S support backward compatibility?

A: Yes, both consoles support backward compatibility. The Xbox Series S offers full backward compatibility for Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games. The Xbox One S supports backward compatibility but to a lesser degree, particularly for select Xbox 360 and original Xbox titles.

Q: Can I use Xbox Game Pass on both consoles?

A: Yes, both the Xbox Series S and Xbox One S support Xbox Game Pass. However, games optimized for next-gen hardware will perform better on the Series S due to its improved processing power and faster load times.

Q: Are both consoles compatible with Xbox Live and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate?

A: Yes, both the Xbox Series S and Xbox One S are compatible with Xbox Live for online multiplayer gaming, and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which provides access to a large library of games, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Xbox Live Gold.

Q: Do both consoles support 4K UHD Blu-ray playback?

A: No. The Xbox One S supports 4K UHD Blu-ray playback via its optical drive. The Xbox Series S is digital-only and does not have a disc drive, so it cannot play physical Blu-ray discs or DVDs.

Q: Can I stream video content from services like Netflix and Disney+ on both consoles?

A: Yes, both consoles support popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and more. Both the Xbox Series S and Xbox One S can stream 4K video content through these apps, although only the Xbox One S can play physical Blu-ray discs.

Q: Are there differences in cloud save support between the Xbox Series S and Xbox One S?

A: No, both consoles offer cloud save support, allowing users to store game progress in the cloud. This feature ensures that your game saves are secure and can be accessed across multiple consoles or even on PC through Xbox Play Anywhere titles.

Q: Can I use external storage for both consoles?

A: Yes, both consoles support external storage devices, but there are differences. The Xbox Series S supports external SSDs and hard drives for storing backward-compatible games, but to store and play next-gen games, you will need to use the proprietary Seagate Storage Expansion Card. The Xbox One S supports external storage through USB 3.0, but only for last-gen game storage.

Q: Do both consoles have parental control features?

A: Yes, both consoles have robust family settings that allow parents to control screen time, set content restrictions, and manage online interactions. This is done through Xbox’s family settings, accessible via the console or the Xbox Family app.

Q: Can I use both consoles as home media centers?

A: Yes, both consoles are designed to serve as home entertainment hubs. You can use them for streaming content, playing music, and using various media apps. The Xbox One S can also play physical media via its Blu-ray drive, while the Xbox Series S relies solely on digital content.

Q: Does the Xbox Series S have the same streaming apps as the Xbox One S?

A: Yes, both consoles support the same streaming apps, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, YouTube, and more. You can stream 4K content on both consoles, although gaming resolution differs between the two.

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