QUESTION
If by “X” you mean the recommendation for which Xbox Series console to buy: go with the Xbox Series X if you have a 4K TV, want the best performance, or want more storage. The Series S is the better budget pick if you mostly play digitally, do not need native 4K, and are okay with less power and storage.
Best for 4k TV owners
Maars picked this for players who want the best Xbox experience: it is the stronger choice for 4K gaming, performance, and built-in storage.
At a glance
| Xbox Series X | Xbox Series S | |
|---|---|---|
| Best choice if | You want the strongest Xbox performance, 4K gaming, and more storage | You want a cheaper digital-first Xbox for casual play or Game Pass |
| Performance | More powerful console; built for higher-end play | Less powerful, but still suitable for many current Xbox games |
| 4K TV fit | Best fit for a 4K TV | Less ideal if native 4K is a priority |
| Storage | Almost twice the storage of the base Series S | More limited storage, so you may need to manage installs more often |
| Buying advice | Best overall pick for most serious Xbox players | Best budget pick for digital-game players |
Also compared
Best for budget digital players
Maars picked this for budget-focused players who mostly buy digital games: it gets you into the Xbox ecosystem for less.
Alternatives
Choose this if you want the cheapest current Xbox entry point and mainly use Game Pass or digital games.
Xbox Series S
It is less powerful than the Series X but can still be a good value for casual or budget-focused players.
Found this helpful?
Best for 4k TV owners
Maars picked this for players who want the best Xbox experience: it is the stronger choice for 4K gaming, performance, and built-in storage.
At a glance
| Xbox Series X | Xbox Series S | |
|---|---|---|
| Best choice if | You want the strongest Xbox performance, 4K gaming, and more storage | You want a cheaper digital-first Xbox for casual play or Game Pass |
| Performance | More powerful console; built for higher-end play | Less powerful, but still suitable for many current Xbox games |
| 4K TV fit | Best fit for a 4K TV | Less ideal if native 4K is a priority |
| Storage | Almost twice the storage of the base Series S | More limited storage, so you may need to manage installs more often |
| Buying advice | Best overall pick for most serious Xbox players | Best budget pick for digital-game players |
Also compared
Best for budget digital players
Maars picked this for budget-focused players who mostly buy digital games: it gets you into the Xbox ecosystem for less.
Choose this if you want the cheapest current Xbox entry point and mainly use Game Pass or digital games.
Xbox Series S
It is less powerful than the Series X but can still be a good value for casual or budget-focused players.
Found this helpful?
Explore follow-up questions based on this answer.
