Xbox Series S in 2025: prices, 1TB model, who should buy
TL;DR:
- Series S targets 1440p, upscales to 4K, no disc drive.
- 512 GB and 1 TB options remain, with storage cards for more.
- U.S. prices reportedly increased in September 2025.
- It runs the same games as Series X with lower targets.
- Best for budget buyers and Game Pass users.
Microsoft’s Series S is the entry Xbox for current-gen games. It is all-digital, so there is no disc drive. Microsoft lists 1440p targets with 4K upscaling and up to 120 fps support in some titles. It ships in 512 GB and 1 TB options and supports storage expansion cards.
Prices in 2025
Press reports say U.S. prices rose in mid-September 2025. Listings cite the Series S 512 GB moving from $379.99 to $399.99 and the 1 TB from $429.99 to $449.99. Microsoft pointed to macroeconomic pressure, per coverage shared with Windows Central.
Who it suits
The Series S works for players on 1080p or 1440p displays. It plays the same games as the Series X, usually at lower resolution and with fewer visual effects. Game Pass subscribers get strong value. If you own many discs, skip it.
Storage reality
The 512 GB model fills fast. The 1 TB model is easier to live with, but many players still add an expansion card. Cloud gaming can bridge gaps for some titles.
Quick buyer checklist
| Question | If “Yes,” Series S fits |
| Gaming at 1080p or 1440p | Yes |
| Prefer digital library | Yes |
| Tight budget under $450 | Yes |
| Need a disc drive | No |
| Plan to mod or collect discs | No |
Why it matters
The Series S keeps the Xbox library affordable. The recent price change affects holiday plans and bundle math, so buyers should double-check local pricing and promotions.
Sources:
- Microsoft, “Xbox Series S,” https://www.xbox.com/en-US/consoles/xbox-series-s, accessed September 24, 2025.
- PureXbox, “Microsoft Announces New Price Increases For Xbox Series X|S in the US,” https://www.purexbox.com/news/2025/09/microsoft-announces-new-price-increases-for-xbox-series-xs-in-the-us, September 2025.
- Best Buy listing, “Xbox Series S 1TB All-Digital Console,” https://www.bestbuy.com/product/xbox-series-s-1tb-all-digital-console-disc-free-gaming-with-xbox-wireless-controller-120fps-xbox-series-s/JJGXPX33FK, accessed September 24, 2025.
