Xbox Series S – 1TB SSD All-Digital Gaming Console – 1440p Gaming – 4K Streaming – Carbon Black

TLDR Review: Xbox Series S 1TB

Published: December 14th, 2025

Pros

  • Compact and sleek design fits easily in most entertainment setups and is portable enough to move between rooms or take on trips.
  • Significantly faster performance than previous Xbox generations, delivering smooth gameplay and quick load times powered by Xbox Velocity Architecture.
  • Supports Dolby surround sound and Dolby Vision, enhancing audio and visual immersion in games.
  • Excellent backward compatibility, allowing most older Xbox games to be downloaded and played digitally.
  • Large 1TB SSD storage offers ample space for digital game libraries, particularly valuable for Xbox Game Pass subscribers who enjoy trying many titles.
  • Great value proposition when combined with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, providing access to thousands of games across four Xbox generations.

Cons

  • No disc reader, so physical games and disased content are completely unsupported, which limits options for collectors or those with existing game discs.
  • Some users report overheating issues and frequent system crashes, raising concerns about stability during extended gaming sessions.
  • Occasional loud fan noise can be distracting, especially in quieter environments.
  • A noticeable percentage of customers experience defective units or hardware failures shortly after purchase, indicating potential quality control challenges.
  • Some buyers have reported missing cords or accessories in the box, complicating setup and requiring extra purchases.

Bottom Line

The Xbox Series S in Carbon Black is a compelling choice for gamers who prefer an all-digital experience with fast load times, solid backward compatibility, and a compact design that doesn’t hog your space. It shines especially bright when paired with Xbox Game Pass, delivering immense game variety on a budget. However, if you need disc support, worry about overheating, or want rock-solid hardware reliability, you might want to consider stepping up to the Xbox Series X or explore consoles with physical media support. This is a fast, versatile machine—but it’s built for the digital-first gamer who values convenience over discs.

Lowest at Amazon
$349.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$249.00 at Lenovo

Where to Buy

Prices last updated: December 14th 2025 4:11 am
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