Xbox Series X vs Series S in 2026: which one, and is Xbox still worth it?
The real differences between Xbox Series X and Series S — resolution, discs, storage, Game Pass — plus an honest look at Xbox after the August 2026 price increase.
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Short version. The Series S is smaller and cheaper, targets lower resolutions and has no disc drive. The Series X is the full-power model for 4K TVs, available with or without a disc drive. After the August 2026 price increase, Xbox hardware costs more than comparable PlayStation and Nintendo hardware in the US, so it makes most sense for people already invested in Xbox.
The four current models
Microsoft's US list prices since August 1, 2026:
| Model | Disc drive | Storage | US list price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox Series S 512GB | No | 512GB | $499.99 |
| Xbox Series S 1TB | No | 1TB | $599.99 |
| Xbox Series X Digital | No | 1TB | $749.99 |
| Xbox Series X | Yes | 1TB | $799.99 |
Microsoft also discontinued the 2TB Galaxy Black special edition of the Series X. Retailer prices, bundles and promotions can differ from list prices, so treat the table as a reference point.
What's actually different
Performance. The Series X has a considerably more powerful graphics chip and is designed for 4K. The Series S is designed for 1440p and lower, which looks fine on a 1080p TV but softer on a large 4K screen. Both run the same games.
Discs. Only the standard Series X plays discs. If the player wants physical games — to trade in, resell or buy pre-owned — that is the only option.
Storage. The 512GB Series S fills up quickly with modern games, some of which exceed 100GB. If you pick a Series S, the 1TB version is worth the extra. See our storage guide for Xbox expansion cards.
Size. The Series S is small and quiet, which suits bedrooms and dorms.
Game Pass, briefly
Game Pass is Xbox's subscription. It comes in tiers: the entry tier enables online multiplayer, and higher tiers add a rotating library of games, including Microsoft's own titles on launch day at the top tier. Microsoft has reshaped and repriced the tiers more than once, so compare the current tiers on Xbox's site before deciding — and include the yearly cost in your console budget.
Is Xbox still worth buying?
It depends on what the player already has.
- Already owns many Xbox digital games? Yes, staying put keeps that library — Xbox's backward compatibility covers a long list of Xbox One, Xbox 360 and original Xbox titles.
- Plays on a Windows PC too? Game Pass and many Xbox titles span both, and Xbox controllers are the default choice on PC.
- A first console with no existing library? Compare carefully. Many of Microsoft's own games now also release on PS5, and a standard PS5 currently costs less than a Series X with a disc drive.
Microsoft has said publicly that it is working on future Xbox hardware, and Xbox-branded handheld PCs (the ROG Xbox Ally range, made with Asus) already exist. That shouldn't stop anyone buying today, but it is a reason not to over-invest in accessories that only work with one console.
Good to know
- Controllers: Xbox Series controllers work on Xbox One, Xbox Series and Windows PCs. Older Xbox One controllers also work on Series consoles.
- Headsets: Xbox doesn't support Bluetooth headphones. Wireless headsets must be made for Xbox (they use Microsoft's own wireless protocol), or plug a wired headset into the controller. More in our headset guide.
- Pre-owned: Series X and S consoles are widely available pre-owned and refurbished, which can soften the 2026 prices. See buying pre-owned.
See Xbox Series X · See Xbox Series S · Refurbished Xbox consoles
Facts, prices and policies in this article were checked in November 2026. Prices, bundles and store rules change often — always confirm on the product page before you buy. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
