Is the Xbox One X Worth Buying Over the Xbox One S or Other Consoles?

Deciding between the Xbox One S and Xbox One X can be quite the dilemma, especially if you're not already part of the Xbox family. This article explores the decision-making process, weighing the pros and cons of each console, and providing an objective analysis of their capabilities.

Seeding for the Gold

As we approach a new generation of consoles, the only compelling reason to opt for the Xbox One X would be if you own a 4K TV and prioritize playing games at a resolution close to 4K. However, given the rise of more powerful consoles like the PS4 Pro and the Xbox One S's overall performance, the Xbox One X might not be the best choice for many gamers.

The Nintendo of Consoles

If you're familiar with the gaming landscape, you might find that even the Nintendo Switch, which consumes minimal power, delivers impressive visuals. This highlights the importance of hardware when it comes to gaming, as even systems with modest specs can offer excellent graphical fidelity.

Power Rankings

Below is a comparison of the different consoles in terms of power and performance. This ranking is based on a combination of hardware specifications and real-world performance, as put to the test across various titles and games.

Least Powerful to Most Powerful:

Although all these consoles are from the same manufacturer (AMD), the differences in their architectures and components make them distinct in terms of performance and capabilities.

The Great RAM Debate

The decision between the Xbox One S and Xbox One X ultimately hinges on the type of RAM used in each console. The key difference lies in the type of RAM: the Xbox One S and Xbox One use DDR3 RAM, while the Xbox One X uses a combination of shared DDR3 and GDDR5.

Shared DDR3 RAM in the Xbox One and One S is considerably slower, as it is commonly found in integrated graphics or some cheaper graphics cards. This slower memory significantly affects the console's performance, particularly when it comes to running games at higher resolutions.

In contrast, the Xbox One X utilizes both DDR3 and GDDR5 RAM, giving it a significant performance boost. This difference truly sets the Xbox One X apart, especially when it comes to maintaining high frame rates and running games at 4K resolution.

Performance Comparison

The Xbox One S and Xbox One share the same CPU and GPU, both running on a slow 8GB DDR3 RAM. This RAM type is a significant bottleneck, as it limits the consoles' ability to render higher resolutions and maintain high frame rates. For instance, most AAA titles struggle to run at 1080p 60fps, and 1080p 1921080 becomes a luxury on the Xbox One.

The Xbox One X, on the other hand, offers much faster GDDR5 RAM, allowing it to achieve 1921080 at 60fps in many AAA titles. It also supports 4K resolution, albeit limited to certain titles, and runs many games at higher frame rates at 1080p.

Choosing the Right Console

Given the choices, it becomes clear that the Xbox One X is the clear winner in terms of raw power and performance. However, if you're concerned about the steep increase in price, the Xbox One S might still be a suitable option, especially if your primary concern is a balance between performance and cost.

The PS4 Pro lies in between, offering better performance than the Xbox One S but not quite reaching the level of the Xbox One X. For most gamers, the difference between the Xbox One S and Xbox One X isn't as drastic as the gap between the Xbox One S and other consoles.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you have a 4K TV and don't mind the higher cost, the Xbox One X is the ultimate choice for a gaming experience. However, if you're looking for a balance of performance and affordability, the Xbox One S or even the PS4 Pro could be the better fit.

Remember, the landscape of gaming is always evolving, and new consoles will eventually render the current generation obsolete. So, if you're on the fence, you might want to weigh how long you plan to use your console before upgrading to the next generation.