Xbox Series S Review: Compact Powerhouse for Digital Gaming
The next generation of gaming is here, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. Today, we’re diving deep into the Xbox Series S – All Digital Gaming Console – 1TB SSD – Includes Wireless Controller – 120FPS – Robot White, a compact and powerful console designed for the all-digital future. Offering a compelling blend of performance and affordability, the Series S promises a seamless gaming experience with impressive features. Is it the right console for you? Let’s find out.
Detailed Review
The Xbox Series S is Microsoft’s entry-level next-gen console, but don’t let the “entry-level” label fool you. This console packs a serious punch for its size and price. The 1TB SSD offers significantly faster load times compared to previous generations, meaning you’ll spend less time waiting and more time playing. Games like Minecraft, Fortnite, and Roblox load almost instantly, which is a massive improvement.
One of the standout features is the ability to play games at up to 120 FPS. While not all games support this frame rate, those that do offer an incredibly smooth and responsive gaming experience. Combined with the console’s processing power, even graphically demanding titles run remarkably well. The all-digital design means you’ll need to purchase games digitally, which may be a drawback for some, but it also allows for a sleek and compact design.
Quick Resume is another game-changer. The ability to seamlessly switch between multiple games and pick up right where you left off is incredibly convenient, eliminating the need to sit through lengthy loading screens every time you want to switch titles. Backward compatibility is also a huge plus, allowing you to play games from four generations of Xbox consoles. Many of these older titles are optimized for the Series X|S, resulting in improved visuals and performance.
The inclusion of one Xbox Wireless Controller is standard, and the high-speed HDMI cable ensures you’re getting the best possible visual output. While Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is sold separately, it’s highly recommended. The service offers access to hundreds of games, including day-one releases like The Outer Worlds 2, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, NINJA GAIDEN 4, DOOM: The Dark Ages, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, and Grounded 2, making it an incredible value for gamers.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast loading times with 1TB SSD | All-digital console (no disc drive) |
| Up to 120 FPS gameplay | Lower resolution output compared to Series X |
| Quick Resume for seamless game switching | Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is sold separately |
| Backward compatibility with four generations of Xbox games | Less powerful than the Xbox Series X |
| Compact and affordable |
Excellent Alternatives
- PlayStation 5 Digital Edition – A strong all-digital alternative offering exclusive titles and impressive performance.
- Xbox Series X – The more powerful Xbox console, offering higher resolution and more storage.
- Nintendo Switch OLED – A great option for portable gaming and exclusive Nintendo titles.
Final Verdict
The Xbox Series S is an excellent choice for gamers looking for an affordable entry point into the next generation. While it lacks a disc drive and isn’t as powerful as the Series X, its fast loading times, 120 FPS support, and access to Xbox Game Pass make it a compelling option. If you’re primarily a digital gamer and don’t need the absolute best graphical fidelity, the Series S is a fantastic value.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4.5/5
