Microsoft has unveiled the Xbox One S at the recent E3 event, thus confirming rumors that it is indeed coming out with an upgraded Xbox One. Now that gamers have seen the unit, which was presented as a slimmer but more powerful console, how exactly does it match up to the current Xbox One?
Apart from the design and appearance, is the Xbox One S worth buying or should gamers hold off for the more powerful console, Xbox One Scorpio that Microsoft also announced? Should Xbox One users even replace their units? Here's a comparison of the consoles to help you decide before purchasing.
Xbox One vs. Xbox One S vs. Xbox One Scorpio: Design
As it was revealed, the Xbox One S is 40 percent thinner and smaller than the current console. This unit now sits on your shelf vertically, which couldn't be done with the previous Xbox One. The slimmer Xbox also has a better ventilation system so that it doesn't overheat. Gone is the bulky power adapter, which has been replaced by a power supply that's much more compact.
Meanwhile, the design of the Xbox One Scorpio is still not yet known as Microsoft only announced its intended development and potential 2017 release. So, comparing its appearance between the other two consoles isn't possible at this point.
Additionally, the Xbox One S has a redesigned controller with better grip and handle, as well as a better range for Bluetooth gaming. The controller also comes with changeable covers, per Game Pur.
"Today marks the beginning of a future [...] where we can all play without boundaries" - @XboxP3 #XboxE3 pic.twitter.com/EvU1Wvlubt
— Xbox (@Xbox) June 13, 2016
Xbox One vs. Xbox One S vs. Xbox One Scorpio: Performance & Features
Xbox One S has better processing power than the original Xbox One and it can support High Dynamic Range (HDR) gaming. However, the console doesn't have 4K gaming just yet. Although it has 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player for watching 4K videos or movies, per BGR.
If you're springing for better gaming output, then the upcoming Xbox One Scorpio is the console that can play 4K games effortlessly. It will be 450 percent more powerful than the original Xbox One in terms of game rendering, per Value Walk. It's also pegged to 150 percent more powerful than Sony's upcoming PS4 Neo, its direct competition.
One thing that has is missing from the Xbox One S is the Kinect Sensors, which is present in the current Xbox. Instead, the slimmer console has an IR blaster, or Kinect users can use a USB adapter.
The most powerful console ever. Holiday 2017. https://t.co/OdNWVEomf8 #XboxE3https://t.co/I9TjkQADhR
— Xbox (@Xbox) June 14, 2016
Xbox One vs. Xbox One S vs. Xbox One Scorpio: Price, Release Date
The Xbox One S is coming in August 2016, while Scorpio is set for holiday 2017. The Xbox One S is going for $299 500 GB upon its release, which makes it a more affordable UHD player. There's also another model with 2 TB of space and this cost $399, much like the price of the original Xbox One. Price for the Xbox Scorpio is not yet determined.
In conclusion, the Xbox One S offers only minor upgrades for the current Xbox One. It's the Xbox One Scorpio that is considered a total game changer in console gaming, but it's speculated to cost a lot more.
