The Xbox Series S is now available in Carbon Black, boasting a generous 1TB of storage capacity. Microsoft has introduced this updated version of the digital-only Xbox Series S, featuring a striking “Carbon Black” color option and doubling the storage compared to the standard 512GB found in other SKUs. Priced at $350, it shares the same matte finish as the higher-end Series X and includes an official Xbox Wireless Controller. This new console is widely available at both physical retailers and digital stores, following its initial tease at the Summer Games Fest back in June.
The standout feature of this release is the expanded hard drive space. Given that the Series S doesn’t support physical media, the hard drive is your primary storage option. Previous iterations were limited to 512GB, which could quickly fill up with modern game sizes. The new 1TB storage should comfortably accommodate seven to eight high-profile games, along with numerous smaller indie titles. However, you may still need to manage space by deleting older games or considering an external drive down the line.
Furthermore, this refreshed Series S emphasizes an eco-friendly design, incorporating components made from post-consumer recycled (PCR) resins, aligning with a trend initiated in 2021 with the Series S consoles.
For those unfamiliar with Xbox’s naming conventions, it can get confusing. The Series S and Series X are both next-gen consoles, but the Series S is the lower-powered variant without a dedicated disc drive. The Series X costs $500, while the Series S is priced between $300 and $350, depending on the storage capacity. Both consoles support modern games, but the Series S is geared towards lower resolutions like 1080p or 1440p, while the Series X is a 4K gaming console.
The value of purchasing an Xbox Series S in 2023 depends on your gaming preferences and priorities. If you prioritize affordability and digital gaming, the Series S can still provide an enjoyable gaming experience with access to a wide range of titles. However, if you demand top-tier graphics and performance, you may want to consider higher-end consoles.
In 2023, the Xbox One S may still be worth it for certain gamers who are content with its existing game library and do not require the latest features and performance enhancements found in newer consoles. However, for those seeking a more robust gaming experience, upgrading to a next-gen console like the Xbox Series S or Series X might be a better choice.
The choice of which console to buy in 2023 depends on your gaming preferences, budget, and priorities. The Xbox Series S is a good choice for budget-conscious gamers who prefer digital gaming. The Xbox Series X offers higher performance and graphical fidelity. Additionally, consider the PlayStation 5 and its digital edition, as well as the available games and exclusive titles on each platform.
The Xbox Series S is worth buying if you are looking for an affordable entry into next-gen gaming, prioritize digital gaming, and are content with 1440p gaming at up to 120 frames per second. It offers great value for its price point, especially when paired with Xbox Game Pass for access to a vast game library.
The longevity of an Xbox Series S console depends on various factors, including usage, care, and technological advancements. Typically, consoles are expected to last for several years, with Microsoft providing ongoing support and updates. With proper maintenance, an Xbox Series S should last through its lifecycle, which could be around 5-7 years or more.
The Series S is equipped with a less powerful GPU and CPU, a smaller RAM capacity, and a reduced hard drive size. These adjustments contribute to a lower manufacturing cost, ultimately making it a more budget-friendly option. Additionally, Microsoft is catering to a distinct audience with the Xbox Series S.
While newer consoles will inevitably be released in the future, the Xbox Series S is not immediately becoming obsolete. It continues to receive support, updates, and a library of new games. Its longevity depends on Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to the platform.
The Xbox Series S is designed to offer a great gaming experience for its generation, but it may not be considered “future-proof” in terms of handling more demanding games and technologies that may emerge in the distant future. Like all consoles, its capabilities will eventually be surpassed by newer hardware.
The Xbox Series S was released on November 10, 2020, making it a few years old as of 2023.
One of the disadvantages of the Xbox Series S is its lower graphical power compared to the Series X, which may result in lower resolutions and graphical quality in some games. It also has a smaller storage capacity and lacks a disc drive for physical media.
The Xbox Series S has gained popularity due to its affordability, offering a more budget-friendly option for gamers who want to experience next-gen gaming without the high price tag. Its inclusion in the Xbox ecosystem, along with Xbox Game Pass, has also contributed to its popularity.
The Xbox Series S and PlayStation 5 are different consoles with varying features and capabilities. The PS5 offers higher graphical performance and exclusive games. The Series S is more budget-friendly but has lower specs. Whether one is “as good as” the other depends on individual preferences and priorities.
The Xbox Series S can run a wide range of Xbox Series X|S optimized games, Xbox One games, and backward-compatible titles. However, it may not run games at the same level of graphical fidelity as the Series X.
The Xbox Series S can play a vast majority of games available in the Xbox ecosystem, including those from previous generations. However, it may not support certain older titles or niche games that are not part of its backward compatibility list.
Compared to the higher-end Xbox Series X, the Series S is less powerful in terms of graphics and performance. However, it is not necessarily “underpowered” for its intended purpose as an affordable entry into next-gen gaming. Its specs are tailored to its price point and digital-focused approach.
Microsoft has recently introduced an updated edition of the all-digital Xbox Series S, now available in a striking “Carbon Black” hue and featuring double the storage capacity – 1TB, in contrast to the typical 512GB included in other SKUs.
As of January 2022, Microsoft ceased production of all Xbox One consoles, including the Xbox One X and Xbox One S. Consequently, the primary avenue for acquiring this console is now through the used market, where prices can fluctuate significantly..
Comparing the Xbox Series S and the PlayStation 5 (PS5) depends on individual preferences. The PS5 generally offers higher graphical performance and exclusive games. The Xbox Series S is more budget-friendly but has lower specs. The choice between them depends on your gaming priorities and the game titles you prefer.
To upgrade the storage capacity of your Xbox Series S, you can purchase and connect an external USB hard drive or SSD. Alternatively, you can use the official Seagate Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S, which provides additional storage specifically designed for these consoles.
The Xbox Series S has a storage capacity of 512GB and targets gaming at a maximum resolution of 1440p. While it can upscale content to 4K, it does not support native 4K gaming like the Xbox Series X.
The value of the Xbox Series S depends on your gaming preferences and budget. It offers a cost-effective way to experience next-gen gaming with a digital focus. If its features align with your gaming needs, it can be a worthwhile purchase.
The worth of the Xbox Series S in 2023 depends on various factors, including your gaming preferences, the availability of games, and your budget. While it may not be the latest console, it can still provide an enjoyable gaming experience if it meets your requirements.
Reasons not to buy the Xbox Series S might include a desire for higher graphical performance, native 4K gaming, a preference for physical disc-based games, or the need for more storage capacity. Assess your gaming priorities before making a decision.
The disadvantages of the Xbox Series S include lower graphical power compared to the Series X, a smaller storage capacity of 512GB, and the absence of a disc drive. These limitations may affect gaming performance and storage options.
In terms of performance and capabilities, the Xbox Series S is generally better than the Xbox One S. It offers next-gen gaming features, faster load times, and higher frame rates. However, it lacks backward compatibility with some older Xbox 360 and original Xbox games.
The Xbox Series S is the more advanced and capable console compared to the older Xbox One S. It provides a better gaming experience with improved graphics, faster load times, and access to next-gen games and features.
The number of games the Xbox Series S can hold depends on the size of the games and available storage space. With its 512GB storage capacity, it can hold a varying number of games, but you may need to manage storage or use external drives for additional space.
A 1TB storage capacity can hold a considerable number of Xbox games, but the exact number varies depending on the size of each game. On average, it can store dozens of games, but you may need to manage storage to make room for new titles.
Whether the Xbox Series S needs more storage depends on your gaming habits and the number of games you want to keep installed. If you frequently download large games or use Game Pass, you may consider expanding storage with external drives or the official Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S.
