Lets get started. Xbox has done its big annual unveiling of all things new at Microsoft at E3 this year. In a bit of a bizarre move they have announced a new console arriving early August of this year. The reason it is a bizarre move is because it is pre cycle in the console world as they have already announced a much more powerful console coming next year which is code named Project Scorpio but expect that name to change to something a little different.
Back to the Xbox One S tho, it is a 40% smaller console over the current beast of a machine in the Xbox One, it has also lost the bulky and damn right annoying power brick which is a nice touch… well done Microsoft. In terms of other hardware nothing major has changed inside apart from it now supports 4k streaming, 4k Ultra HD Video Support including 4k Ultra HD Blu-ray and full HDR (high dynamic range) capability which will mean the blacks will be blacker and the colours will be more vibrant with playback and games but please bear in mind this doesn’t include 4k gaming as of yet, this is something coming in its bigger brother Xbox Scorpio along with VR and you will need a 4k TV for all of this to work.
Compared to the standard Xbox One the only other changes include the USB port being moved to the front of the case for easier access along with the Xbox One controller pairing button which makes much more sense and they have upgraded the HDMI to HDMI 2.0a which means it can output 4k at 60hz unlike HDMI 1.4 which can only do 4k 30hz. It will also include a vertical stand for those who want your Xbox to stand vertical. Microsoft has also made a slight change and upgrade to the already amazing Xbox One controller. These upgrades include a new textured grip for a more comfortable hold and the biggest upgrade is it now has Bluetooth built in which therefore improves range and it makes it easier for the PC gamer to use it with there PC without having to use an annoying USB lead or dongle.
So the conclusion and main question on everyone’s lips…Should you get one? Personally my view is if you already have an Xbox One you are better off saving your money and waiting to see what Project Scorpio brings as there should be much improved hardware as it will be able to play 4k games. Now if you were thinking of getting an Xbox I think the decision is a little harder for you guys and you have to just go with you gut feeling. If you cannot wait for Project Scorpio then go ahead and buy the Xbox S and you will not be disappointed in any way shape or form but again if you can hold out, I would save that valuable cash and wait to see what Microsoft unleashes next year.
On a final note here is the pricing and please note the first edition going on sale will be the 2tb the other configurations are going on sale at a later date:
- Xbox One S 500 GB Console Package – £249.99
- Xbox One S 1 TB Console Package – £299.99
- Xbox One S 2 TB Console Package – £349.99
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Liams Tech Guide 