Gaming > Consoles & PCs 47 47 people found this article helpful How to Pick the Best Xbox One Console For You Choose between Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X By Jeremy Laukkonen Jeremy Laukkonen Facebook Twitter Writer Shoreline Community College Jeremy Laukkonen is automotive and tech writer for numerous major trade publications. When not researching and testing computers, game consoles or smartphones, he stays up-to-date on the myriad complex systems that power battery electric vehicles . lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on December 3, 2020 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Overall Findings Graphics and Performance Hardware and Accessories Price and Availability Final Verdict If you want to buy an Xbox One console, you can choose between the original model, the Xbox One S, and the Xbox One X. We tested each system to help you choose the best Xbox One model for you. Overall Findings The Xbox One X is the most recent revision of the Xbox One console. So, if you want to game on the latest and greatest system available, your choice is easy. However, the older models can be found used for cheaper and provide most of the same features. All three Xbox consoles play the same games, including backward-compatible Xbox 360 games. Still, there some significant technical differences between the systems. Every version of the Xbox One plays regular Blu-ray movies, but not all can handle ultra high-definition (UHD) Blu-ray or true 4K resolution. Model 4K Resolution Regular Blu-ray UHD Blu-ray Xbox One No, doesn't play Blu-ray or games in 4K. Yes, plays regular Blu-ray movies. No, doesn't play UHD Blu-ray. Xbox One S Yes, but games are upscaled to 4K. Yes, plays regular Blu-ray movies. Yes, plays UHD Blu-ray in 4K. Xbox One X Yes, plays games in 4K when available. Yes, plays regular Blu-ray movies. Yes, plays UHD Blu-ray in 4K. Graphics and Performance: Only the Xbox One X Plays Games in 4K With Graphical Enhancements Model Plays Enhanced Games Frame Rate Refresh Rate Xbox One Yes, but without enhancements. 60 FPS 60 Hz Xbox One S Yes, but without enhancements. 60 FPS 120 Hz Xbox One X Yes, with full enhancements. 60 FPS 120 Hz The Xbox One X is technically an Xbox One, and it plays the entire library of Xbox One games. However, the hardware inside the case is more powerful than either the Xbox One or the Xbox One S. The biggest difference between the Xbox One X and its predecessors is that it can output Blu-ray movies and games in true 4K. That said, you'll need a 4K TV that supports high dynamic range (HDR) to take advantage of these features. Buy the Xbox One X if you want the best graphics, flawless frame rates, and improved game performance. Hardware and Accessories: Xbox One S Sacrifices the Kinect Port for a Slimmer Design Model Controller Kinect Port Dimensions Xbox One Xbox One controller Yes 13.1 x 10.8 x 3.1 inches Xbox One S Xbox One S controller No 11.6 x 8.9 x 2.5 inches Xbox One X Xbox One S controller No 11.8 x 9.4 x 2.4 inches The Xbox One S was released almost three years after the original Xbox One, and it includes several improvements. The bulky external power supply was removed, the overall size of the console was reduced, and support for 4K video output was included. The major downside of the Xbox One S compared to the Xbox One X is that it doesn't support true 4K gaming. While it supports all original Xbox One accessories, Microsoft removed the Kinect port from the Xbox One S. You'll need an adapter to play Kinect games. This version of the hardware is also smaller than the original, so it's good if you have limited space. Price and Availability: The Original Xbox One Is Cheap if You Can Find It Model Availability Price Xbox One No longer being made. About $200 used or refurbished. Xbox One S Still being made in 2021. About $300 new. Xbox One X No longer being made. About $369 used or refurbished. The main benefit of the original Xbox One over its newer models is that it's cheaper. If you have a tight budget, and you want to play the entire Xbox One library of games (including Xbox Game Pass), the original model is perfect. The original Xbox One is tough to find these days if you're looking for a new unit. However, finding a used or refurbished one is easier. Final Verdict: Get the Xbox One X if You Can Afford It Since the Xbox One X is four times more powerful than the original Xbox One, it's the preferred choice. It plays the same games while offering improved graphics and gameplay for select titles (look for games with 4K Ultra HD, HDR, or Xbox One X Enhanced badges). Even some Xbox 360 games, including Halo 3 and Fallout 3, receive graphical enhancements when played on an Xbox One X. An Xbox Kinect port isn't included, so you need an adapter to play Kinect games. The Xbox One S is less expensive than the Xbox One X, but the visual upgrades are worth the extra cost, providing your TV can support them. Game Console Reviews Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies