Microsoft has officially unveiled new versions of its Xbox Series X and Series S consoles, with all-digital options and expanded storage capacities. These new models are now available for pre-order, with the official release set for October 15th in most regions, and October 29th in other territories. Let's break down what’s new and how these updated consoles compare to the original models released in 2020.
Image Credit: Xbox Wire
The New Xbox Models:
Xbox Series S in Robot White with 1 TB SSD
- Price: $348.99
- What’s New: This model is essentially the same as the original Xbox Series S, which launched in 2020, but with double the storage capacity. The original model came with 512 GB of storage, while this new version offers 1 TB. If you prefer a different color, a 1 TB all-digital Xbox Series S is also available in Carbon Black for $349.99.
Xbox Series X 1TB Digital Edition
- Price: $449.99
- What’s New: This is the first Xbox Series X model without a disc drive, making it an all-digital edition. It comes with 1 TB of storage and is available in Robot White. This option is ideal for gamers who prefer digital downloads over physical game discs.
Xbox Series X 2TB Special Edition
- Price: $599.99
- What’s New: This model is an upgraded version of the original Xbox Series X, featuring a disc drive and doubling the internal storage to 2 TB. It’s available in Galaxy Black, giving it a sleek, modern look.
Comparing the New Models with the Original Launch Versions
These new consoles are the first significant variations on the Xbox Series X and Series S models that were initially released in November 2020. Despite the changes in storage capacity and the addition of a disc-less Series X, the processing power and overall performance of these new models remain identical to the original versions.
- Processing Power: All new models retain the same powerful hardware as the launch versions, ensuring the same high-quality gaming experience.
- Storage: The primary difference is in the internal storage capacities. The Series S now offers 1 TB (up from 512 GB), and the Series X is available in two new versions: a 1 TB Digital Edition and a 2 TB Special Edition.
- Disc Drive: The introduction of the Xbox Series X 1TB Digital Edition marks the first time a Series X console is available without a Blu-Ray drive, catering to gamers who have fully embraced digital gaming.
Pricing Breakdown
- The standard Xbox Series X with a 1 TB SSD and a disc drive still retails at $499. The new Digital Edition, with the same storage but without the disc drive, is priced slightly lower at $449.99, offering a modest $50 savings.
- The Xbox Series S with 512 GB of storage is priced at $299. For an additional $50, you can upgrade to the new 1 TB version.
- For those interested in the 2 TB Special Edition of the Xbox Series X, the price is $599.99, which is $100 more than the standard 1 TB model with a disc drive.
Conclusion
These new Xbox Series X and Series S models provide more options for gamers, whether you’re looking for more storage or an all-digital experience. With similar processing power across all models, your choice will primarily depend on your storage needs and whether you prefer physical or digital games.