Xbox Series S Review – Check What It Can Offer

Technology

Xbox Series S delivers fast load times with its custom SSD, crisp 1440p gaming with up to 120 FPS, and seamless performance thanks to Xbox Velocity Architecture. With its compact size, accessible price, and impressive next-gen performance, the Xbox Series S hits a sweet spot for casual and serious gamers alike.

What Xbox Series S Offer?

  • The Xbox Series S has a custom 512GB NVMe SSD with Xbox Velocity Architecture for faster load times, smoother gameplay transitions, and near-instant Quick Resume switching between multiple games.
  • Xbox Series S has a custom AMD Zen 2 processor and RDNA 2 GPU for delivering responsive performance, fluid frame rates up to 120 FPS, and next-gen visuals at 1440p resolution.
  • It has hardware-accelerated ray tracing for more realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections, enhancing depth and immersion in supported games.
  • The Xbox Series S has full backward compatibility with Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox titles for access to a large game library with performance boosts and faster load times.
  • Xbox Series S has Quick Resume technology for instantly switching between multiple games without losing progress.
  • It supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for richer colors, improved contrast, and immersive 3D audio that enhances cinematic and gaming experiences.
  • The Xbox Series S has cloud gaming integration with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for playing full console games instantly over the internet, even without downloading.
  • Xbox Series S has a compact, all-digital design for easy setup, less clutter, and a lower price point, making it ideal for digital-first gamers and small entertainment spaces.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Fast SSD with Xbox Velocity Architecture
  • Affordable price point for next-gen performance

  • Compact, minimalist design

  • 1440p resolution with up to 120 FPS support

  • Backward compatibility with thousands of older titles

  • Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support

  • Smooth multitasking with Quick Resume

  • Seamless cloud gaming support with Game Pass

Cons
  • Limited to 512GB storage
  • No disc drive (digital-only)

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Comparison

Feature Xbox Series S Xbox Series X PlayStation 5 Digital Edition
Processor Custom AMD Zen 2 Custom AMD Zen 2 Custom AMD Zen 2
Storage 512GB NVMe SSD 1TB NVMe SSD 825GB NVMe SSD
Max Resolution 1440p Native 4K Native 4K
Frame Rate Support Up to 120 FPS Up to 120 FPS Up to 120 FPS
Optical Drive No Yes No
Size Compact Larger Slightly larger than Series S
Quick Resume Yes Yes No
Backward Compatibility Full Full Limited to PS4 only
Ray Tracing Yes Yes Yes
Price Check Series X Price Check Series X Price Check PlayStation 5 Price

FAQ

Does the Xbox Series S support physical game discs?
No, the Xbox Series S is a digital-only console, meaning it does not have a disc drive. You can only purchase and play digital games or use Xbox Game Pass to access titles.

Can the Xbox Series S run 4K games?
The Xbox Series S is designed for up to 1440p gaming, but it can upscale to 4K when connected to a compatible TV. Native 4K is reserved for the Xbox Series X.

Is the Xbox Series S good for competitive gaming?
Yes, with support for up to 120 FPS, the Series S provides a smooth and responsive gaming experience, especially useful for fast-paced titles like Call of Duty or Fortnite.

How much usable storage is available on the Xbox Series S?
Out of the 512GB SSD, approximately 364GB is usable after system files. You can expand this using an official Seagate expansion card or external USB drive for older games.

Does the Xbox Series S support external hard drives?
Yes, you can use USB 3.1 external hard drives to store and play backward-compatible games, or store next-gen games (though you’ll need to move them to internal storage to play).

What is Quick Resume and how does it work?
Quick Resume allows you to switch between multiple games and apps without closing them. It keeps them suspended in memory so you can return to them instantly right where you left off.

Is Xbox Game Pass available on the Series S?
Yes, Xbox Game Pass is fully supported and is a huge advantage. It gives you access to hundreds of games for a monthly fee, including new releases and Xbox exclusives.

Does the Xbox Series S support ray tracing?
Yes, the Xbox Series S includes hardware-accelerated ray tracing, which adds realistic lighting and reflections in supported games.

Can I use Xbox One accessories with the Xbox Series S?
Yes, all Xbox One controllers, headsets, and other accessories are compatible with the Xbox Series S.

Is cloud gaming available on the Xbox Series S?
Yes, with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you can stream games directly from the cloud without needing to download them, ideal for trying games quickly.

How quiet is the Xbox Series S during gameplay?
The Xbox Series S runs extremely quiet, even during demanding games. Its efficient cooling system and SSD contribute to near-silent operation.

What display should I use to get the best out of the Series S?
For optimal experience, use a 1440p monitor or a 4K TV that supports HDMI 2.1 for features like variable refresh rate and 120Hz gaming.

Can two players use the Xbox Series S at the same time?
Yes, you can connect multiple controllers for local co-op or competitive games. It also supports online multiplayer through Xbox Live.

What’s the difference between Xbox Series S and Series X?
The Series S is more affordable and compact, with slightly lower specs (like 1440p resolution and 512GB storage), while the Series X offers higher native resolution, more storage, and a disc drive.

Is the Xbox Series S worth it in 2025?
Absolutely. With Game Pass integration, fast performance, backward compatibility, and compact size, the Series S remains a solid option for modern gamers seeking next-gen gameplay at a lower price.

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