Will There Be a Disc Version of the Xbox Series S?

As of my last update in August 2023, Microsoft has not announced any plans to release a disc version of the Xbox Series S. The console was designed with a focus on affordability and digital gaming, emphasizing cloud gaming and digital downloads.

The Xbox Series S Philosophy

The entire philosophy around the Xbox Series S is that it is a feature-less option at a lower price point. Microsoft believes that you should pay the premium for options like a disc drive, even though optical drives are becoming cheaper. Therefore, the Series S does not include a disc reader, making it an entirely digital console.

Design and Compromises

The Xbox Series S is designed to be as budget-friendly as possible, but does so by taking out a series of compromises that make it more affordable. One of these compromises is the absence of a disc reader. As a result, there will never be a disc-based version of the Xbox Series S.

Recommendations and Alternatives

Most console gamers would recommend the Xbox Series S as a gift for a child or someone with an extremely tight budget rather than for adults. The Xbox Series X remains the better option, offering superior performance and a disc drive for those who prefer or need it.

Market Considerations

The compelling thing about the Series S is its affordability. A 200 savings over the Series X is significant and makes it worth it for some people, especially those not overly concerned with the absolute latest and greatest in gaming. For those who just want to play games without obsessing over specs, or those who can’t afford the 500-dollar Series X but can manage the 300-dollar Series S, the savings are substantial.

The difference between the PS5 with a disc drive and the PS5 without a disc drive is 100 dollars. Microsoft would likely have to charge 100 dollars more for a disc drive version of the Series S, totalling 400 dollars. This price increase is not very compelling when compared to the more powerful Series X, which already costs only another 100 dollars.

Conclusion

Given the current market and Microsoft’s strategy, it is unlikely that a disc version of the Xbox Series S will be released. The Series S is positioned as an affordable, digital-only console, aligning with Microsoft's vision for a more accessible gaming experience. The Series X, on the other hand, offers superior performance and a disc drive for those who need it.