iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
The Xbox Series S costs less because Microsoft designed it as a digital-only console with a lower graphics target, less GPU and memory capacity, and smaller storage options than the Series X. The consoles share an eight-core custom Zen 2 CPU, so the price gap is not simply a matter of the Series S having a weaker processor across the board.
What makes the Xbox Series S cheaper?
Microsoft’s trade-offs focus on graphics hardware, physical media and storage. The Series S has no optical disc drive, is designed for 1440p gaming with the ability to upscale to 4K, and has a smaller GPU and memory configuration. It is also offered with less internal storage than the Series X’s largest configuration. Together, those choices position it as the lower-cost, digital-first console in the generation.
Microsoft has not published a component-by-component manufacturing cost breakdown, so there is no reliable figure for how many dollars each design choice saves. The price difference is best understood as the result of the consoles’ overall configurations, not assigned to any single part.
How do the Series S and Series X compare?
| Feature | Xbox Series S | Xbox Series X |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming resolution target | Designed for 1440p, with 4K upscaling | Native 4K target |
| GPU | 4 TFLOPS; 20 compute units | 12 TFLOPS; 52 compute units |
| Memory | 10GB GDDR6 | 16GB GDDR6 |
| CPU | Eight-core custom Zen 2 | Eight-core custom Zen 2 |
| Disc support | Digital-only; does not play physical discs | Disc-drive configurations are available, as is an all-digital configuration |
| Listed internal storage options | 512GB or 1TB | 1TB or 2TB |
| Maximum frame rate | Up to 120 FPS with supported content and display | Up to 120 FPS with supported content and display |
Specifications and configurations are based on Microsoft’s current Series S and Series X product pages. A console’s target resolution or maximum frame rate does not guarantee that every game will run at that resolution or frame rate; results depend on the game and display.
#1 Best Overall
- BEST VALUE IN GAMING — Experience next-gen speed and performance in the smallest XBOX ever. The XBOX Series S delivers powerful all-digital gameplay in a sleek, compact design.
- UP TO 120 FPS GAMEPLAY — Enjoy smooth, responsive gaming with frame rates up to 120 FPS, powered by XBOX Velocity Architecture, a custom NVMe SSD, and DirectX Raytracing for a heightened level of realism.
- 512GB CUSTOM SSD AND XBOX VELOCITY ARCHITECTURE — Reduce load times dramatically with the custom 512GB NVMe SSD and XBOX Velocity Architecture, enabling lightning-fast performance and seamless world streaming.
- QUICK RESUME — Seamlessly switch between multiple games and resume exactly where you left off. No more waiting through title screens and loading bars.
- FOUR GENERATIONS OF DIGITAL GAMES — Play thousands of digital games from XBOX Series X|S, XBOX One, XBOX 360, and Original XBOX with backward compatibility. Many titles are enhanced for better visuals and performance. Smart Delivery ensures you always get the best version for your console.
What do the differences mean in practice?
Graphics and resolution
The Series X has three times the listed GPU compute performance of the Series S (12 versus 4 TFLOPS) and more compute units (52 versus 20), alongside more memory. Microsoft positions the Series X for native 4K and the Series S for 1440p with 4K upscaling. That makes the Series X the more appropriate choice if native 4K capability is a priority, while the Series S is aimed at a lower-resolution target. These specifications alone do not establish how a particular game will perform.
Discs and game libraries
The Series S is digital-only, so it cannot play physical game discs or serve as a disc player. The Series X lineup includes disc-drive models as well as an all-digital model. If you own physical Xbox games or want a console with an optical drive, check the exact Series X configuration before buying.
Rank #2
- What's in the box: Xbox Series S 512GB console, 1 Xbox Wireless Controller, High Speed HDMI cable.
- CPU: 8X Cores @ 3.6 GHz (3.4 GHz w/SMT) Custom Zen 2 CPU; GPU: 4 TFLOPS, 20 CUs @1.565 GHz Custom RDNA 2 GPU; SOC Die Size: 197.05 mm2.
- Memory: 10GB GDDR6 128 bit-wide bus; Memory Bandwidth: 8GB @ 224 GB/s, 2GB @ 56 GB/s.; Internal Storage: 512GB Custom NVME SSD
- Gaming Resolution: 1440p; Performance Target: Up to 120 FP.
- HDMI Features: Auto Low Latency Mode, HDMI Variable Refresh Rate, AMD FreeSync.
Storage
The Series S options listed by Microsoft are 512GB and 1TB; the Series X page lists 1TB and 2TB configurations. Both consoles accept a separately sold Xbox Series X|S Storage Expansion Card. Compare the capacity of the exact model you are considering, especially if you expect to keep many games installed.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteWhich console should you choose?
- Consider the Series S if you buy games digitally, do not need a disc drive, use a 1440p display or prioritize lower upfront cost.
- Consider a disc-drive Series X if you want native 4K capability and physical-disc support.
- Compare the exact storage configuration if capacity matters; the Series X lineup also includes a 2TB option.
- Check local retailer listings for the current price of each exact configuration. Microsoft says prices, availability and options can vary by retailer and market.
What were the original launch prices?
Microsoft announced US launch prices of $299 for the Series S and $499 for the Series X in September 2020, a $200 difference at launch. Those are historical US prices, not current retail prices. Current prices vary by market, configuration, retailer and availability; use local listings to compare what the consoles cost now.
Rank #3
- Access your favorite entertainment through apps like YouTube, Netflix, and more
- Enjoy over 100 games right out of the box with a 1 month Xbox Game Pass trial
- Watch 4K Blu-ray movies and stream 4K video on Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Microsoft Movies & TV, and more
- Play with friends and family near and farsitting together on the sofa or around the world on Xbox Live, the fastest, most reliable gaming network
- Xbox One games and accessories work together
Microsoft’s official September 2020 announcement gives the launch pricing. Its current product pages describe the specifications and configuration options.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- What's in the box: Xbox Series S 512GB console, 1 Wireless Controller, High Speed HDMI cable.
- CPU: 8X Cores @ 3.6 GHz (3.4 GHz w/SMT) Custom Zen 2 CPU; GPU: 4 TFLOPS, 20 CUs @1.565 GHz Custom RDNA 2 GPU; SOC Die Size: 197.05 mm2.
- Memory: 10GB GDDR6 128 bit-wide bus; Memory Bandwidth: 8GB @ 224 GB/s, 2GB @ 56 GB/s.; Internal Storage: 512GB Custom NVME SSD
- Gaming Resolution: 1440p; Performance Target: Up to 120 FPS; HDMI Features: Auto Low Latency Mode, HDMI Variable Refresh Rate, AMD FreeSync.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
