The Xbox Series X and Xbox One consoles represent different generations of Xbox gaming. With the Xbox One launched in 2013 and the Xbox Series X in 2020, there’s a stark contrast between these two consoles in terms of hardware capabilities, features, game library and overall performance.
But which Xbox console reigns supreme in 2023? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of the Xbox Series X versus the Xbox One across all factors to determine the definitive winner.
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Hardware and Performance
The Xbox Series X boasts a custom AMD Zen 2 processor with 8 cores clocked at 3.8GHz each. This is paired with a RDNA 2 GPU with 52 compute units and 3328 stream processors, delivering up to 12 TFLOPS of power.
In comparison, the Xbox One has a measly 1.75GHz AMD Jaguar 8-core CPU and integrated GPU with 768 stream processors and 1.31 TFLOPS performance.
Clearly, the Xbox Series X has a massive advantage in raw hardware capabilities. Microsoft quotes the Series X as being 8x more powerful than the base Xbox One.
This huge performance delta allows the Series X to deliver 4K gaming at a smooth 60fps. Many titles even support 120fps gameplay. The Xbox One maxes out at 1080p 30fps for most games.
Winner: Xbox Series X
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Features and Capabilities
The Xbox Series X contains a custom 1TB NVMe SSD which enables superior load times, quick resume and other next-gen features.
Comparatively, the Xbox One uses a slow 500GB HDD. Load times on the Xbox One can often be over 1 minute versus 10-15 seconds on the Series X.
Additionally, the Xbox Series X has full hardware ray tracing support for incredibly realistic lighting and reflections in compatible games. The Xbox One does not support any kind of ray tracing.
Other advantages of the Xbox Series X include variable rate shading, mesh shaders, sampler feedback and DirectX raytracing support. The Xbox One lacks all of these graphics enhancements.
Winner: Xbox Series X
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Backwards Compatibility
The Xbox Series X is fully backwards compatible with all previous Xbox One games, DLC and accessories. So you can experience enhanced performance and visuals on supported last-gen titles.
The Xbox One does not offer any form of backwards compatibility with original Xbox or Xbox 360 games. So your game library is limited only to Xbox One titles.
Winner: Xbox Series X
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Game Library
As of October 2023, there are over 3,000 games available on the Xbox One platform. However, only a fraction of these are Xbox Series X enhanced or optimized.
On the flip side, all new major game releases target the Xbox Series X/S as the primary Xbox platform. Popular examples include Starfield, Forza Motorsport, Redfall, Avowed, Fable and more.
The Xbox One is clearly in the twilight of its lifespan. Series X offers access to far more current and next-gen games.
Winner: Xbox Series X
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Controller
The Xbox Series X includes the new Xbox Wireless Controller featuring a Share button and reduced latency through Bluetooth 5.0 support.
By comparison, the Xbox One controller lacks the Share button functionality and uses older Bluetooth tech.
Both controllers are comfy and functional. But the minor enhancements give the Series X controller a slight edge.
Winner: Xbox Series X
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Media Playback
For home entertainment beyond gaming, the Xbox Series X supports video playback up to 8K resolution at 60 fps.
The Xbox One maxes out at 4K video at 60fps.
So if you have an 8K TV, the Series X is the better choice for media playback. Both consoles support the major video/music apps like Netflix, YouTube, Spotify and more.
Winner: Xbox Series X
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Online Services
Microsoft’s online platform and services are identical across both consoles. You get access to Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Microsoft Store and the Xbox Network to play online.
The key difference is that Xbox Live Gold is no longer required for free-to-play online multiplayer on Xbox Series X/S. The Xbox One still needs an active Xbox Live Gold subscription.
Winner: Xbox Series X
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Virtual Reality
The Xbox Series X offers no official support for virtual reality headsets.
However, the Xbox One does work with the Oculus Rift S to enable VR gaming.
So if you want VR on Xbox, the Xbox One is currently the only choice.
Winner: Xbox One
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Console Design
The Xbox Series X features a bold upright tower design that is quite a statement piece. It measures 15.1 x 15.1 x 30.1 cm.
By comparison, the Xbox One S has a more understated square shape at 29.9 x 23.9 x 6.5 cm.
Aesthetics are subjective, but the Series X certainly has a more next-gen look. However, the Xbox One S is more media cabinet friendly.
Draw
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Price
With the Xbox One S now discontinued, you’ll have to look at the used market to find one. Expect to pay $150-$200 for a used Xbox One S in good condition.
The Xbox Series X has an MSRP of $499. You can often find it on sale during seasonal events like Black Friday.
Given the vast differences in performance and features, the Xbox Series X easily justifies the higher price tag.
Winner: Xbox Series X
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Which Should You Buy in 2023?
Given the comprehensive comparison above, the Xbox Series X is clearly the superior Xbox console in 2023 and beyond.
The Xbox One is fading into obsolescence and cannot match the next-gen gaming experience delivered by the Series X.
With up to 8x better hardware performance, superior features like ray tracing, SSD, and full access to all the latest games, the Xbox Series X is the easy recommendation for most gamers.
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The only potential reasons to consider an Xbox One are:
- Tight budget – Used Xbox One’s can be found under $200
- VR gaming – Xbox One works with Oculus Rift S
- Media cabinet size – Xbox One S has smaller footprint
But for the average gamer who wants the best of Xbox gaming, multimedia features and future proofing, the Xbox Series X is the definitive choice that reigns supreme in 2023 and the next several years.
Xbox Series X vs Xbox One: Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some of the most common questions regarding Xbox Series X vs Xbox One.
Which Xbox has better graphics?
The Xbox Series X has vastly superior graphics with advanced capabilities like ray tracing, 4K/120fps gaming and more. The Xbox One maxes out at 1080p/30fps with no ray tracing support.
Can Xbox One play Xbox Series X games?
No, Xbox One cannot directly play Xbox Series X exclusive games. Some cross-gen games work across generations. Xbox One can play next-gen games via Xbox Cloud Gaming.
Does Xbox Series X have VR support?
Not yet. Xbox Series X currently lacks official VR support. Xbox One is the only Xbox console that works with Oculus Rift S for VR gaming.
Does Xbox Series X work with Xbox One accessories?
Yes, all Xbox One controllers, headsets and other accessories are fully compatible with Xbox Series X.
Does Xbox Series X have better exclusives than Xbox One?
Yes, Xbox Series X offers all new exclusive franchises like Starfield, Redfall and Forza Motorsport. The Xbox One lacks any major new exclusives at this stage of its lifecycle.
Is Xbox Series X backwards compatible with Xbox One?
Yes, Xbox Series X is fully backwards compatible with all Xbox One games, DLC and accessories. Enhanced visuals and performance are available on supported titles.
Final Verdict – Xbox Series X is the Clear Winner
When tallying up all the key differences between the two consoles, the Xbox Series X is the obvious winner in a head-to-head match-up.
The Xbox One is fading into obscurity while the Series X represents the future of Xbox gaming. With far superior hardware, an expanding library of exclusives, full backwards compatibility and more, the Xbox Series X is the console to own in 2023 and beyond.
