Xbox Series S, Microsoft's cheaper alternative to the Xbox Series X, packs a faster CPU than Sony's PlayStation 5.
As noted by The Verge's Tom Warren on Twitter, this means the £249 box will offer plenty of power.
Microsoft has confirmed the Xbox Series S uses the same CPU as the Xbox Series X running at 3.6GHz. Yes, the Xbox Series S CPU is faster than the PS5
— Tom Warren (@tomwarren)
September 9, 2020
Xbox Series S Faster Than PS5?
The Series S and Series X both share the same CPU, which runs at 3.6GHz, but it's worth noting that it's not all about processing speed (for context, the PS5 processor runs at 3.5GHz).
Sony is making a big deal about its new console's custom SSD, but the fact the Xbox Series S' CPU is able to outperform it and still offer ray tracing, near-instant loading, and the ability to quickly resume multiple titles in a package that costs less than any console available today is a testament to Microsoft's commitment to making the next generation of gaming more accessible for all.
It likely won't really mean anything, but as far as the numbers game goes, it's better to have the figures on your side than not, as Microsoft found out the hard way.
In the current console generation, the Xbox One stumbled out of the gate by being underpowered in comparison to the PS4, so it'll be interesting to see if this narrative will be reversed this time around (admittedly, that was a much larger differential in performance).
It's been quite the news day for Microsoft after the company revealed both Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X will both launch on November 10, along with pre-orders beginning on September 22.
The tech giant has also sweetened the already saccharine Xbox Game Pass subscription by adding EA Play at no extra cost, while also opening up its all-in-one finance option, Xbox All Access, to more countries.
For a full rundown of the differences between the Xbox Series X and the Xbox Series S, check out our feature here.
Meanwhile, Sony has been silent on pre-order information, although a gold PS5 is available for the princely sum of £7999.
The Japanese firm has, however, been very vocal about the benefits of the console's SSD drive.
A recent blog post highlighted just how developers are using the speed afforded by the technology, while a new trailer also offers a look at the advancements made in the leap to a new console generation.