Do I need to upgrade my Xbox One for the Xbox One S?
THE new Xbox One S console has been out for a few weeks and the question everyone wants to know is if they should upgrade. Well, here is your answer.
FOLLOWING in the footsteps of gaming systems before it, Xbox One recently launched a new, slimline console to replace its bulky predecessor.
Since being released at the beginning of August, people have been asking whether they should upgrade to the Xbox One S console.
The answer to this is tricky, so let’s look at what’s new.
Firstly, the console is 40 per cent smaller than its predecessor and moves away from the flimsy, black exterior.
Instead, the console now offers a sturdy design, with perfect angles and a plain white aesthetic.
As the bulky external power supply from the Xbox One has been built into the machine, the matt surface includes tiny holes to help reduce internal heat.
Additionally, Microsoft has added a stand so the device can be used horizontally or vertically.
The power and eject buttons have changed to offer a physical presence, rather than just capacitive.
The USB ports and the controller sync button have also been moved to the front of the machine, which makes things much easier when the console lives inside a cabinet.
Xbox One S only requires a power cord and HDMI cable to operate, although it still includes HDMI-In feature for those wanting to have the console double as a TV hub.
It must be mentioned, a separate adaptor for Kinect will need to be purchased as built-in support has been removed — although who really uses the motion-sensing feature anyway.
A redesigned, white controller also ships with the system and has a texture on the underside for better grip.
The new controller also has increased Bluetooth functionality to allow use with a Windows 10 PC without the need for a special dongle.
In terms of the technical specifications, the Xbox One S is largely the same as its predecessor, with both running on the same Windows 10 operating system and both backward compatible with Xbox 360 games.
The only real change to the system is the ability to support 4K Ultra HD streaming and playback, and support for High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology — which adds depth to colours and contrast, providing a richer image.
A 2TB hard drive has also been included, which will save having to delete content or having to use external storage.
VERDICT
If you are looking to purchase your first console or want to swap from the competition, the Xbox One S is not a bad choice.
For those who already own the original Xbox One, there is no real need to upgrade unless you were desperately chasing a cheap 4K video box or wanted the new unit purely for looks.
It must also be mentioned a 4K television will be needed to take full advantage of some of the new features.
Ideally, those chasing big hardware changes would be better to wait until Project Scorpio is released next year, to save upgrading twice in as many years.
Regardless, the machine is sexy, sleek and a step in the right direction for Microsoft.
The 2TB Xbox One S costs $549, the 1TB will set you back $499 and the 500GB is $399.
Continue the conversation on Twitter @mattydunn11.
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