Xbox Series X vs. PS5: Which One Should You Choose?

The competition between Microsoft’s Xbox Series X and Sony’s PlayStation 5 (PS5) has been the centrepiece of the latest console generation, offering gamers top-tier performance, exclusive games, and cutting-edge technology. If you’re considering buying one, this detailed comparison will help you make the right choice based on design, performance, games, features, and overall value.

1. Design and Build

Xbox Series X

• Design: The Xbox Series X features a minimalist, rectangular design resembling a compact PC tower. It’s sleek and unobtrusive, fitting well in most entertainment setups.

• Size: Smaller than the PS5, it measures 15.1 x 15.1 x 30.1 cm, making it easier to fit into tight spaces.

• Colour: Available only in black, with a green accent on the vented top.

• Ports: Includes 3 USB ports, an HDMI 2.1 output, Ethernet, and proprietary storage expansion slot.

PS5

• Design: The PS5 has a bold, futuristic design with curved panels and a large footprint, standing out as a statement piece in your setup.
• Size: It’s significantly larger, measuring 39 x 10.4 x 26 cm, which can be a challenge to accommodate.
• Colour: Default white with black accents, but customizable plates are available.
• Ports: Offers 3 USB ports, HDMI 2.1 output, Ethernet, and expandable storage via an M.2 slot.

Winner: Xbox Series X (Compact and more practical design).

2. Performance and Specs

Both consoles deliver next-gen gaming performance, but there are slight differences:

Analysis:

• Power: The Xbox Series X has a slight edge in raw power with 12 TFLOPS compared to the PS5’s 10.28 TFLOPS. This results in slightly better performance for multi-platform games in some cases.
• Storage: Xbox Series X has a larger 1TB drive, but the PS5’s 825GB SSD is faster due to its custom architecture, leading to shorter load times.

Winner: Xbox Series X (More storage and slightly better performance for most titles).

3. Games and Exclusives

Xbox Series X

• Exclusives: Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, Starfield, and upcoming Bethesda titles like The Elder Scrolls VI.
• Game Pass: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is a game-changer, offering access to a vast library of games (including new releases) for a monthly fee.
• Backward Compatibility: Supports thousands of Xbox One, Xbox 360, and even original Xbox titles.

PS5

• Exclusives: Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Horizon Forbidden West, and God of War: Ragnarök.
• PlayStation Plus: Offers a growing library of free games with its subscription service, though not as extensive as Game Pass.
• Backward Compatibility: Supports most PS4 games but lacks support for older generations.

Winner: PS5 (Better exclusives in the current generation, but Xbox Game Pass is a great value).

4. Controller

Xbox Series X Controller

• Design: A slight evolution of the Xbox One controller, featuring improved grips, a new hybrid D-pad, and a Share button.
• Battery: Uses AA batteries (or rechargeable packs sold separately).
• Comfort: Ergonomically designed for long gaming sessions.

PS5 Dual Sense Controller

• Features: Revolutionary haptic feedback and adaptive triggers deliver an immersive gaming experience, responding to in-game actions like tension in a bowstring or driving resistance.
• Battery: Built-in rechargeable battery.
• Comfort: Slightly bulkier than the DualShock 4 but comfortable to hold.

Winner: PS5 Dual Sense Controller (Innovative features enhance gameplay immersion).

5. Features and Ecosystem

Xbox Series X

• Quick Resume: Allows you to switch between multiple games seamlessly.
• Game Pass: Provides access to hundreds of games for a subscription fee.
• Cloud Gaming: Play Xbox titles on mobile devices or PCs with Xbox Cloud Gaming.
• Backward Compatibility: Industry-leading backward compatibility.

PS5

• Exclusive Features: Activities cards let you jump straight into game missions from the home screen.
• PS VR: Compatible with the original PS VR and set to support PS VR2.
• Cloud Gaming: PlayStation Now offers cloud gaming but is less integrated than Xbox Cloud Gaming.
• Backward Compatibility: Limited to PS4 games.

Winner: Xbox Series X (Game Pass and Quick Resume offer unmatched value).

6. Price and Availability

Xbox Series X

• Price: $499.
• Availability: Easier to find in stock compared to the PS5.

PS5

• Price: $499 (Standard Edition), $399 (Digital Edition without a disc drive).
• Availability: Still challenging to purchase due to high demand.

Winner: Xbox Series X (Better availability and same price).

7. Overall User Experience

Xbox Series X

• Best suited for gamers who value performance, backward compatibility, and cost-efficiency through Game Pass.
• Ideal for casual and budget-conscious gamers due to the sheer value Game Pass offers.

PS5

• A better choice for players who prioritize exclusive games and immersive gameplay through the Dual Sense controller.
• Perfect for fans of Sony’s first-party studios like Naughty Dog, Guerrilla Games, and Insomniac.

Final Verdict

Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose Xbox Series X if you prioritize better value, Game Pass, and versatility with backward compatibility.
• Choose PS5 if you want a gaming console with standout exclusives and a next-level controller experience.