Microsoft Xbox Series S vs Sony PlayStation 5

Xbox Series S Review

The Xbox Series S is a smaller and cheaper version of the Series X, sacrificing power and an optical drive. It aims for upscaled 1440p resolution instead of true 4K. The hardware is less powerful, but it still offers a good gaming experience. The controller is not as flashy as Sony's DualSense, but it has subtle improvements. The image quality is not as crisp as the Series X, but it looks better on a 1440p gaming monitor. Some games can run at 120fps, but there are minor issues with screen tearing and framerate dips. The console is quiet and has quick loading times. However, the storage space is limited, and the expansion card is expensive. Using a USB 3.0 drive is recommended for additional storage.

Xbox Series S review (2024): The best choice for gamers on a budget

The Xbox Series S is an affordable gaming console that offers good performance for its price. It has a sleek design, is portable, and fits well in modern living spaces. The console has a custom CPU, GPU, and SSD that deliver fast load times and smooth gameplay. However, it has some limitations in terms of storage capacity and performance with certain games. Overall, the Xbox Series S is a great choice for casual gamers on a budget.

Xbox Series S review

The Xbox Series S is a more affordable alternative to the Series X, offering impressive capabilities at a lower price. It has ray tracing, fast load times, and higher frame rates, but targets a 1440p resolution instead of 4K. The digital-only build and lack of a disc drive may be drawbacks for some users. The console's storage capacity is limited, but it offers features like Quick Resume and supports Xbox Game Pass. The controller has been refined and the UI can feel overcrowded. The game library initially lacked exclusives, but has since improved with optimized games and new releases. Xbox Game Pass is a great way to build up your library.

PS5

The PS5 is a powerful and well-rounded console with a refined user interface. It offers 4K resolution, ray tracing, and fast loading times. The console is bulky and lags behind the Xbox Series X in terms of loading times. The DualSense controller is a standout feature, providing haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. The console's design is customizable, but it is large and feels toy-like compared to the Xbox Series X. The PS5's specs include an AMD Zen 2 processor, 10.28 teraflops of GPU power, and a super-speedy SSD. The graphics and performance are impressive, with improved loading times and stunning visuals. The PS5's user interface is similar to previous consoles, with a dedicated screen for multimedia apps. The PS Plus subscription service offers access to a large catalog of older PlayStation games. The PS5 is compatible with PlayStation VR, offering an immersive VR experience. Overall, the PS5 is a powerful console with impressive features, but it is expensive and lacks some of the value offered by the Xbox Series X.

Sony PlayStation 5 Slim Review

The Sony PlayStation 5 Slim is a slightly smaller version of the original PS5, with more storage and a new USB-C port. It retains the same design and features as the original, including the option for an optical drive. The new model is easier to set up horizontally but does not come with a stand. It has a larger SSD for storage and the option to upgrade with an external disc drive. The performance and gameplay experience are unchanged from the original PS5. Overall, it is a great game console and earns the Editors' Choice award.

PlayStation 5 Review

The PlayStation 5 is a worthy upgrade for gamers who want faster load times, cutting-edge graphics, and all the features of a next-generation console. It performs well with both PS5 and backward-compatible PS4 games, offering smoother gameplay and improved graphics. The console's fast solid-state drive reduces loading times significantly. The PS5's remote play feature is faster and more reliable, allowing players to connect and play games remotely. The PlayStation Plus Collection offers a great library of games for subscribers. The new DualSense controller is an improvement over the DualShock 4, with better battery life and haptic triggers. The PS5 is slightly larger than previous consoles but fits comfortably in most entertainment centers. It is recommended to opt for the disc edition to save money on used and rented games. The PS5 does not have any exclusive games that are a must-play right away, but it offers convenience and stunning performance.

PlayStation 5 review: slimmer design makes PS5 even better

The PlayStation 5 is a top-notch console with speedy hardware, excellent game load times, solid storage, and a new controller with enhanced haptics. The slimmer redesign of the PS5 addresses previous design flaws and improves storage capacity. The console's speed and optimization make it the most impressive on the market, despite being technically less powerful than the Xbox Series X. The new DualSense controller adds a new level of immersion with its haptic feedback. The PS5 has a strong lineup of exclusive games and a growing library of third-party titles. However, the long-term future of the PS5 and its ecosystem is uncertain.

PS5 review

The PS5 has exceeded expectations with its impressive features, including the DualSense controller with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. The console offers a fresh UI, rapid load times, immersive audio, and powerful hardware. It is quiet, runs cool, and has no major hardware issues. The PS5 has limited support for 120Hz TVs but is steadily growing. The addition of VRR support is fantastic. The console delivers fast load times, better performance, and improved visuals. The design is polarizing, but the console is a solid investment with a growing library of exclusive games. The DualSense controller is comfortable and offers innovative features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. The PS5 has a redesigned user interface with useful features like Cards. The game library includes cross-generation titles and is expanding with first-party and third-party games. The PS5 is backward compatible with most PS4 games. Overall, the PS5 is a powerful and impressive console.