Gist.product intelligenceBuying guides
Buying guide

The Best Xbox Series X & S Consoles

We compared the Xbox Series X, Xbox Series X 1TB Gaming Console + 1 Wireless Controller, and Xbox Series X Digital Edition, based on owner ratings, expert reviews, and specs. The Xbox Series X leads for its performance and features.

Updated

The bottom line

The Xbox Series X (B08H75RTZ8) is our top pick for its powerful hardware, 4K gaming at up to 120 FPS, and compatibility with four generations of Xbox games. It scores 9.4/10 from 31318 owner ratings and is priced at $789.99. The closest alternative is the Xbox Series X 1TB Gaming Console + 1 Wireless Controller (B09NR21ST7), which offers similar performance but includes a controller and HDMI cable for $769.99. The Xbox Series X Digital Edition (B09Z7J8194) is a budget-friendly option at $748, but it lacks a disc drive.

Top pick
Xbox Series XXbox Series X $789.99

Best overall performance and features

The Xbox Series X offers 12 teraflops of processing power, true 4K gaming at up to 120 FPS, and a 1TB SSD for fast load times. It scores 9.4/10 from 31318 owner ratings. The tradeoff is its higher price at $789.99.

Check price on Amazon
Runner-up
Xbox Series X 1TB Gaming Console + 1 Wireless ControllerXbox Series X 1TB Gaming Console + 1 Wireless Controller $769.99

Great performance with included accessories

The Xbox Series X 1TB Gaming Console + 1 Wireless Controller offers similar performance to the Series X but includes a controller and HDMI cable. It scores 9/10 from 743 owner ratings and is priced at $769.99. Those looking for a complete package should consider this option.

Check price on Amazon
Budget pick
Xbox Series X Digital EditionXbox Series X Digital Edition $748.00

Affordable digital-only gaming

The Xbox Series X Digital Edition offers 4K gaming, Quick Resume, and up to 120 FPS gameplay for $748. It scores 9/10 from 321 owner ratings. The tradeoff is the lack of a disc drive, making it unsuitable for those who prefer physical media.

Check price on Amazon

The field, ranked

  1. Xbox Series X Best performance and features, highest price 9.4/10 $789.99 Amazon
  2. Xbox Series X 1TB Gaming Console + 1 Wireless Controller Great performance with included accessories, mid-range price 9.0/10 $769.99 Amazon
  3. Xbox Series X Digital Edition Affordable digital-only gaming, lowest price 9.0/10 $748.00 Amazon

Daily use differences

Owners report that the Xbox Series X offers the smoothest gameplay and fastest load times, thanks to its powerful hardware and 1TB SSD. The 1TB Gaming Console provides a similar experience but includes a controller and HDMI cable, making it a convenient option for those who need these accessories. The Digital Edition, while slightly less powerful, still delivers a great gaming experience at a lower price point.

Who should buy which

Gamers looking for the best performance and features should choose the Xbox Series X. Those who want a complete package with included accessories should opt for the 1TB Gaming Console. Budget-conscious gamers who prefer digital games should go for the Digital Edition.

Owner complaints

Some owners find the 'Series X' name confusing, but this does not affect the console's performance. A few users have reported minor issues with the delivery process for the 1TB Gaming Console, but these seem to be isolated incidents.

Also-rans

None of the products earned a pick, but the Xbox Series X Digital Edition is a strong contender for those who prefer digital games and want to save money.

How this was put together

This guide is based on 31318 owner ratings for the Xbox Series X, 743 ratings for the 1TB Gaming Console, and 321 ratings for the Digital Edition. We also considered expert reviews, specs, and prices. No products were tested hands-on, and the evidence is thinnest for the 1TB Gaming Console and Digital Edition.