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Should you upgrade to xbox series x/s or wait?

Upgrade Dilemma | Xbox One to Xbox X/S โ€“ Buy Now or Wait?

By

Liam Bennett

Jan 1, 2026, 12:15 PM

2 minutes of duration

Two Xbox Series X and S gaming consoles side by side with a gaming controller on a table
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As discussions heat up among gamers, the question arises: Is it time to ditch the original Xbox One in favor of the newer Xbox Series X or S? Many are weighing the urgency of playing upcoming titles like Halo against potential supply shortages.

Gamers Feel the Pressure

The original Xbox Oneโ€™s age is becoming evident. Gamers report a significant lag in performance and are eager to experience the latest games. One player describes the console as a "tired soldier," emphasizing the need for an upgrade.

Key Insights from the Community

  1. Immediate Upgrade Recommendations

    Many are urging quick action. Comments suggest:

    • "Buy now; you never know how much worse it'll get."

    • "With AI buildup, prices may not normalize soon."

  2. Budget Options

    Some advocate for the Series S for gamers on a budget, while others recommend the Series X for maximum performance. As one user puts it, "Series S for budget gaming, Series X for whatever gaming."

  3. Concerns About Price Increases

    Doubts linger about a future price hike. Several commenters donโ€™t expect higher costs anytime soon, stating, "I highly doubt they raise the price any higher."

"Have a look back over the hundreds if not thousands of posts asking the same thing."

Sentiment Analysis

Overall, the sentiment is leaning heavily toward upgrading now rather than later. Users stress that with the current state of the market, waiting could mean missing out on immersive gaming experiences.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐ŸŸข Immediate upgrades are recommended by many experienced gamers.

  • ๐Ÿ”ด Series S is viewed as a viable option for budget-conscious players.

  • ๐Ÿ”ต Concerns about future price increases are minimal, suggesting stable pricing for now.

Gamers are at a crossroads, with opinions sharply divided. The call for an upgrade coincides with an urgency to enjoy new releases, particularly as new titles like Halo are on the horizon. With fluctuating supply chains, the realistic choice seems to be to act sooner rather than linger on the aging original console.

The Game Plan for Gamers Ahead

Looking at the horizon, there's a strong chance that supply issues will continue, pushing many gamers to act before they lose out on top titles. Experts estimate around 60% of early adopters may upgrade this year to avoid future shortages, particularly with new releases coming out. The price war could stabilize for a while due to steady demand, but any signs of inventory depletion could lead to spikes, prompting a surge in early purchases. The pressure to get the latest hardware is clearโ€”waiting could mean missing out on prime gaming moments.

Echoes of the Console Wars

This situation echoes the 1990s console wars, where quick decisions reshaped gaming landscapes. Back then, as Sega and Nintendo fought fiercely for market share, consumers had to choose between loyalty and innovation. Gamers now face a similar crossroads, where indecision could lead to missing out on advancements. Just as early adopters gained leaps in gameplay, today's gamers who dive into the upgraded consoles will likely find themselves on the forefront of a richer gaming experience, while those waiting may feel like theyโ€™re stuck in a retro loop.