Now let's be honest: When we talk about the current consoles, you probably think of the PS5 and the Xbox Series X, right? Almost no one pays any attention to the Xbox Series S, on the other hand – and that's a real shame. Because in my opinion, the cheapest current-gen console is the real star of the current generation.
A commentary by Robert Kohlick.
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Xbox Series S: Current-gen console at a bargain price
When it comes to current-gen consoles, everyone thinks of the PS5 or Xbox Series X. One console is criminally neglected: the Xbox Series S. And this despite the fact that the console is, in my opinion, the most interesting and promising device of the new generation. But what fascinates me so much about Microsoft’s light version of the Xbox Series X?
The greatest strength of the Xbox Series S is its fabulous value for money. While I have to shell out a whopping 550 euros for the Xbox Series X and the disc version of the PlayStation 5 according to the RRP, with the Xbox Series S I get a current-gen console at a bargain price.
Sure, the Xbox Series S can't keep up with the Series X in terms of performance – especially when it comes to graphics power. Nevertheless, Microsoft is also relying on a lightning-fast SSD, ray tracing and 120 Hz support for the “good and cheap” model. All of the other important features of the Xbox Series X can also be found in the Series S. So if you can do without your games flickering across the TV in native 4K, You can save a lot of money with the Xbox Series S.
For casual gamers who don't need to play everything as soon as it's released, the console is doubly interesting. Thanks to the Xbox Game Pass for 10.99 euros a month, you get access to over 100 different games in one go. That's probably enough to play for a while. And since the Game Pass offering is updated at regular intervals, you don't run the risk of having played through everything at some point.
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Microsoft's compact Xbox is really cool!
But in my opinion, the Xbox Series S is not completely convincing on the data sheet. The body of the console, which many have despised, also looks really goodWhile the Xbox Series X seems quite practical thanks to its angular design and fits into almost every living room cupboard in the world, the design of the PlayStation 5 is, in my opinion, completely out of touch.
The Xbox Series S is not only significantly smaller than the other two models, but thanks to the large “grille” on the side of the console, it almost looks like a stylized speaker – simple, timeless, chic!
But I admit: This is purely a matter of taste. There are probably a lot of people who hate the design of the Xbox Series S. I, on the other hand, think it's absolutely brilliant!
With the Xbox Series S, Microsoft not only offers the cheapest entry into the new console generation, but also has, in my opinion, the most beautiful console currently available. But even though I see the Xbox Series S as the most promising console of the new generation, the PlayStation 5 is currently in my living room. But perhaps the trend will shift towards a second console at some point – and if that is the case, then it will definitely be the Xbox Series S.