The Xbox One S was released three years after the original Xbox One. In 2016, it caught our eye as a better, smaller, and quieter gaming machine that showcased the capabilities of the current-gen console.
But the question is: can it still be recommended despite the fact that Microsoft has since released the more powerful Xbox One X? With the Xbox One family now discontinued and Xbox Series X/S now here, it's become a tricky question. In the six years since the Xbox One S launched, the console remains a favorite for those who want a high-quality Xbox experience without the heftier price tag.
Unfortunately, buying a new Xbox One S these days is not an easy task. In fact, all of the Black Friday 2022 deals for the console will likely be for refreshed models. As such, we recommend looking for Xbox Series S discounts among the Black Friday Xbox deals, if you want a comparably priced console that's all-new and more powerful to boot.
With Xbox One S, you'll find the best Xbox One games upscaled to Ultra HD (also known as 4K) with HDR. It's worth noting that this isn't the 'native' 4K offered by the more powerful Xbox One X, but movies and TV shows still take advantage of the room for improvement, whether you're playing a Blu-Ultra HD ray or 4K. . Netflix streaming.
Since 2016, Microsoft further streamlined the console by releasing the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition (now discontinued). This is a trayless system that can only play games downloaded from the Xbox Live Store. The good news is that it's even cheaper than the standard Xbox One S. Impressive considering the price of the original One S 1TB console, which was €349 (£299 / AU$499).
The One S is still a fantastic and affordable option. In fact, thanks to Microsoft's Smart Delivery system, it could remain a viable option for quite some time. However, if you're looking for a more powerful, but still affordable alternative, and don't want to be left out of the next generation, then take a look at the all-digital Xbox Series S. Lucky for you, we have an Xbox One S vs Xbox Series S guide to answer all your questions.
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- Microsoft Xbox One S (2TB HDR) at Amazon for €449.97 (opens in a new tab)
Our original Xbox One S review below details everything you need to know about Microsoft's enhanced console, including its performance, design, and capabilities.
If you're interested in the competition from Xbox, you're probably wondering how the Xbox One S stacks up against the PS4 Slim, which launched around the same time. For you guys and girls, we have prepared a special guide that should answer all your questions: Xbox One vs PS4. More interested in how it stacks up against the PS4 Pro? Watch this video to find out!
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Xbox One S FAQ: Quick questions answered
Can the Xbox One S do 4K?
Like. For those who don't know, 4K is a resolution for your TV. It contains four times as many pixels as a 1080p HDTV, making for a sharper image and much more detail. To be able to view 4K video and HDR technology, you need a 4K TV and an Xbox One X or Xbox One S.
If you set your console's resolution to 4K UHD, some things on your console, like home and apps, will display in 4K. But the games are a bit different. Games on Xbox One S are upgraded to 4K. This means that while the image tends to be smoother and more detailed than native 720p or 1080p, enhanced 4K is not as rich and detailed as native 4K.
Need a 4K TV for Xbox One S?
No. You can use any modern TV with your Xbox One S console, all you need to get up and running is an HDMI cable. But, to enjoy 4K elements and 4K gaming enhancement, you'll need a 4K TV.
What is the difference between an Xbox One and an Xbox One S?
The Xbox One S is slimmer than the Xbox One and runs quieter. But the main difference is that the Xbox One S offers HDR and 4K Blu-ray support. Though you need a 4KTV to use these features.
What is better Xbox One S or PS4?
The short answer is: it totally depends. Both pieces of hardware have their strengths, and which console ends up being the right one for you will depend on what meets your specific needs. Games on the PS4 Pro look better, but the Xbox One S is the better-equipped media player. Read our detailed one by one to find out more: Xbox One S vs PS4 Pro: Which is better?
Is Fortnite free on Xbox One S?
Yes. Not only is it free, but Fortnite is one of the few games that Insider Program players will be able to use special Xbox One peripherals, including a keyboard and mouse, to play as well.
What is the all-digital Xbox One S?
The all-digital Xbox One S is Microsoft's new disc-trayless console. It plays all the same games as the Xbox One, One S, and One X, but can only play games downloaded through the Xbox Live Store. Although it has the same specs, it's cheaper than the standard Xbox One S by around $50 or so.
Microsoft Xbox One S: Price Comparison