Xbox Series S
Microsoft

Xbox Series S

Compact power for next‑gen gaming

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CPUCustom AMD Zen 2, 8 cores @ 3.6 GHz
GPUCustom AMD RDNA 2, 20 CUs @ 1.565 GHz
RAM10 GB GDDR6 (8 GB @ 224 GB/s, 2 GB @ 56 GB/s)
Storage1 TB NVMe SSD (expandable via proprietary expansion card)

Why people are buying it

The Xbox Series S delivers the core next‑generation experience in a small, all‑digital form factor. It runs games at up to 144 fps with support for ray tracing, while its SSD ensures rapid load times. Though it lacks a disc drive, it offers a massive library via Xbox Game Pass and backward compatibility. Ideal for gamers who want performance without the bulk or price of a full‑size console.

What it does well

  • Small footprint fits any entertainment center
  • Lower price than full‑size consoles
  • Fast SSD eliminates long load times
  • Extensive backward compatibility
  • Great value with Game Pass

What to weigh

  • No disc drive limits physical media use
  • Native resolution capped at 1440p
  • Less powerful GPU than Series X
  • Limited internal storage for large libraries

Should you buy it?

The Xbox Series S offers next‑gen performance in a tiny, affordable package. It's perfect for gamers who don't need 4K or disc media and want fast loading with access to Game Pass. If you crave raw power or a physical disc drive, the Series X or other consoles may be a better fit.

Gamers on a budgetPlayers who prefer digital librariesThose seeking a compact console

Specifications

General
Launch Year2020
Operating SystemXbox OS
Power Consumption~100 W
Performance
CPU8‑core Zen 2 @ 3.6 GHz
GPURDNA 2, 4 TFLOPS
RAM10 GB GDDR6
Storage
Internal1 TB NVMe SSD
ExpandableSeagate Storage Expansion Card up to 2 TB
Connectivity
Wi‑FiWi‑Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Bluetooth5.0
PortsHDMI 2.1, Ethernet, USB‑C (power), 3× USB‑A
Other
Backward CompatibilityThousands of Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox titles
Game PassAccess to over 100 games

From published manufacturer information. Check the store listing for the exact variant.

How it compares

ProductCPUGPURAMStorageNative ResolutionPrice
Xbox Series S8‑core Zen 2 @ 3.6 GHzRDNA 2, 4 TFLOPS10 GB GDDR61 TB SSD1440p$250‑$300
Xbox Series X8‑core Zen 2 @ 3.8 GHzRDNA 2, 12 TFLOPS16 GB GDDR61 TB SSD4K~$500
PlayStation 5 Digital8‑core Zen 2 @ 3.5 GHzCustom GPU, 10.3 TFLOPS16 GB GDDR6825 GB SSD4K~$400

Worth a look instead

Questions buyers ask

Do I need an external hard drive for the Series S?

The 1 TB SSD handles most games, but an optional Seagate expansion card or USB external SSD can add storage.

Can I play Xbox One discs on the Series S?

No, the Series S is disc‑free; you'll need digital copies or Game Pass.

Does the Series S support ray tracing?

Yes, it supports hardware‑accelerated ray tracing, though at lower performance than the Series X.

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