The PS5 is a significantly more powerful console with 4x the storage and better performance, while the Xbox Series S is a budget-friendly entry point with excellent Game Pass value. The PS5 delivers premium gaming experiences, whereas the Series S prioritizes affordability and subscription services.
PlayStation 5 vs Xbox Series S — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Choose the PS5 if you prioritize cutting-edge graphics, native 4K gaming, and the largest exclusive game library including marquee franchises like Spider-Man and Final Fantasy. Choose the Xbox Series S if you want an affordable entry into next-gen gaming with exceptional value through Game Pass, and prefer a console focused on subscription content rather than premium single-player AAA titles.
Sony's next-gen console featuring 150+ exclusive titles, advanced haptic feedback, and 10.28 TFLOPS GPU.
Microsoft's budget-friendly next-gen console emphasizing value and Game Pass subscription service.
PlayStation 5 vs Xbox Series S — Comparison Data
Structured comparison data for PlayStation 5 vs Xbox Series S with 195 attributes.
Standard Console Launch Price (MSRP 2026)
Average Game Load Time (Major AAA Titles)
PlayStation 5 vs Xbox Series S — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for PlayStation 5 vs Xbox Series S.
No. The Xbox Series S maxes out at 1440p resolution at 120fps or 1080p with ray tracing. It was designed as a budget console prioritizing 1440p/60fps gameplay. The PS5 is the only current-gen console offering true native 4K at 120fps with ray tracing.
Is Game Pass included with Xbox Series S?
Game Pass is not automatically included but is available as a subscription ($11.99/month for console Game Pass, or $16.99/month for Game Pass Ultimate with online multiplayer). The Series S's lower price makes the subscription cost more attractive relative to the console investment. PS5 requires separate PlayStation Plus Extra ($119.99/year) or Premium ($179.99/year) for comparable access.
How much storage do I need for the Series S?
The Series S comes with 512GB internal storage, but modern AAA games (Starfield, Call of Duty) require 100-150GB each, meaning you can only fit 3-4 large titles. Microsoft recommends a $150-200 Seagate Storage Expansion Card (1TB) as mandatory for most players. The PS5's 825GB base storage is more adequate, though expansion is still needed for large libraries.
Which console has better exclusive games?
PlayStation 5 has a significant advantage with 25+ exclusive or exclusive-first franchises including God of War Ragnarök, Spider-Man, Horizon Forbidden West, Final Fantasy XVI, and Gran Turismo 7. Xbox Series S offers strong titles like Halo Infinite and Forza Motorsport but relies heavily on Game Pass day-one availability rather than exclusive AAA blockbusters.
Buy the PS5 ($499) if you want premium 4K gaming, exclusive AAA franchises, and cutting-edge performance for the next 5+ years. Buy the Xbox Series S ($299) if you're budget-conscious, prefer Game Pass's subscription library, play primarily multiplayer games, or want an affordable entry into next-gen gaming. The PS5 offers better long-term value for single-player experiences; Series S excels at subscription gaming value.