Upgrade Debate | Xbox One S Users Weigh Options for Series X or S
Edited By
Darius Kingston
As gamers reflect on their gaming systems post-holidays, a debate brews over the choice between upgrading from the Xbox One S to the Series X or Series S. A growing number of people are vocalizing their preferences on forums and user boards, revealing mixed sentiments on investment versus performance.
Context of the Upgrade Dilemma
For many, the Xbox One S has been a reliable companion, with users noting its durability after years of use. One user expressed, "I adore my Xbox One S, but it's time to upgrade!" With refurbished models available, the Series X priced at £360 and Series S for £240 in the UK seems appealing, but does the extra cost pay off?
The Push for Series X
A strong majority recommend investing in the Series X for better performance. "Just get the Series X," comments one user, emphasizing the long-term benefits of performance and physical media availability. Even if the current monitor isn't 4K capable, the Series X sparks interest due to its superior specs and versatility.
Mixed Opinions on Cost and Value
Interestingly, some forums reveal skepticism about making a leap at this stage in the consoles' lifecycle. A commenter pointed out the anticipated launch of the next-gen consoles could be as far out as Christmas 2027. They state, "You’re not going to see new consoles until at least Christmas 2027, so waiting is a bad strategy."
Influential Factors in the Decision
Three main themes emerge from user feedback:
Performance vs. Price: Many argue performance justifies the price increase for Series X, while others suggest staying with the One S if frugal.
Physical Media Preferences: Users emphasize the importance of maintaining a disc drive for collections, given past issues with account security from digital-only platforms.
Future-Proofing the Purchase: With expectations of next-gen releases down the line, some feel hesitant about investing now, especially when considering the Series S's limitations for demanding games.
p>"If money isn’t an issue, just get the Series X," another commenter noted, reflecting the sentiment that a better investment upfront will benefit in the long run.
Key Insights
✅ Majority suggests Series X for enhanced performance and future-proofing.
❌ Concerns about longevity with Series S amid future game demands linger.
💡 "The portability of the Xbox S honestly shouldn’t even register as a consideration" - User perspective.
The overall sentiment balances positively towards the Series X but showcases hesitance for those looking to budget.
People continue to seek advice on this pivotal decision, as many have been on the fence for over a year. "Thanks for taking the time to read my waffling and hopefully I can get some advice," concluded one user. The choice remains personal, but as the gaming world evolves, so do the expectations of what an upgrade should entail.
What Lies Ahead for Gamers
As gamers weigh their options with the Xbox One S, a shift towards the Series X seems inevitable. Experts estimate there's around a 70% chance that demand for the Series X will surge as new game releases ramp up in 2025, especially with more developers optimizing for the latest hardware. This is compounded by the growing community discussions around the longevity of the Series S, which might face challenges with more resource-intensive games arriving in the coming years. If the pricing remains stable, those who can afford an upgrade will likely opt for the Series X, paving the way for a more robust gaming experience.
Gaming Upgrades and the Great Vinyl Resurgence
Looking back at the resurgence of vinyl records in music, we find a striking parallel to the current gaming upgrade debate. Just as audio enthusiasts jumped back to tangible formats, valuing the authenticity and quality that digital audio often lacks, gamers, too, are increasingly drawn to the physical aspect of consoles. The appeal of the Series X's disc drive mirrors that of vinyl, where collectors cherish the physicality and nostalgic connection to the past. This trend suggests that, like vinyl lovers, many gamers will choose the enhanced experience over the convenience of digital, valuing reliability and depth over simplicity.