
XBox Series X/S Vs (PS5) Playstation 5 (Price Tag, Launch Games, Specs, Box Contents, Release Date.. More!)
Things are getting exciting with both the (PS5) Playstation 5 and XBox Series X/S having now both been given official release dates, specs and price tags.
However, which system is the right one for you? Each of them have their variations, quirks, price tags and thus it can be rather confusing as to which console you should pick in terms of getting the best out of what you want
Which console offers the best in terms of launch titles and games, which one is more powerful and overall which is the better purchase overall?
We personally decided to look into this and here we bring you our opinions on the latest next-gen consoles.
SPECS / HARDWARE
This particular criteria is possibly one of the most important if not THEE important aspect to any console. It determines just how powerful the machine is, what it is capable of and so much more.. Lets compare the systems shall we?
Lets start with both the XBox Series X and XBox Series S
XBOX SERIES X | XBOX SERIES S | |
CPU | 8-Core Zen 2 @ 3.8Ghz / 3.6Ghz w/ SMT | 8–Core Zen 2 @ 3.6Ghz / 3.4Ghz w/ SMT |
GPU | RDNA 2 GPU – 52 CUs @ 1.825 GHz | RDNA 2 – 20 CUs @ 1.565 GHz |
GPU Power | 12.15 TFLOPS | 4 TFLOPS |
Memory | 16 GB GDDR6 | 10 GB GDDR6 |
Memory Bandwidth | 10GB @ 560 GB/s, 6GB @ 336 GB/s | 8GB @ 224 GB/s, 2GB @ 56 GB/s |
Performance Target | 4K @ 60 FPS, Up to 120 FPS | 1440p @ 60 FPS, Up to 120 FPS |
Internal Storage | 1 TB PCIe Gen 4 NVME SSD | 512 GB PCIe Gen 4 NVME SSD |
I/O Throughput | 2.4 GB/s (Raw), 4.8 GB/s (Compressed) | 2.4 GB/s (Raw), 4.8 GB/s (Compressed) |
Expandable Storage | 1 TB NVME Expansion Card | 1 TB NVME Expansion Card |
Optical Drive | 4K UHD Blu-Ray Drive | Digital Only |
Video Output | HDMI 2.1 – Up to 4K at 120Hz, 8K, VRR | HDMI 2.1 – Up to 4K at 120Hz, 8K, VRR |
Backward Compatibility | Xbox One, Xbox 360, Xbox | Xbox One, Xbox 360, Xbox |
Availability | 10th November 2020 | 10th November 2020 |
Price | $499 / £449 / €499 | $299 / £249 / €299 |
SOURCE:XBox
PLAYSTATION 5
PLAYSTATION 5 | PLAYSTATION 5 DIGITAL | |
CPU | AMD Zen 2-based CPU with 8 cores at 3.5GHz (variable frequency) | AMD Zen 2-based CPU with 8 cores at 3.5GHz (variable frequency) |
GPU | 10.28 TFLOPs, 36 CUs at 2.23GHz (variable frequency) | 10.28 TFLOPs, 36 CUs at 2.23GHz (variable frequency) |
GPU ARCHITECTURE | Custom RDNA 2 | Custom RDNA 2 |
MEMORY INTERFACE | 16GB GDDR6 / 256-bit | 16GB GDDR6 / 256-bit |
MEMORY BANDWIDTH | 448GB/s | 448GB/s |
INTERNAL STORAGE | Custom 825GB SSD | Custom 825GB SSD |
IO THROUGHPUT | 5.5GB/s (raw), typical 8-9GB/s (compressed) | 5.5GB/s (raw), typical 8-9GB/s (compressed) |
EXPANDABLE STORAGE | NVMe SSD slot | NVMe SSD slot |
EXTERNAL STORAGE | USB HDD support (PS4 games only) | USB HDD support (PS4 games only) |
OPTICAL DRIVE | 4K UHD Blu-ray drive | None. Fully Digital |
PRICE | $499.99 / £449.99 / AU$749.95 | $499.99 / £449.99 / AU$749.95 |
RELEASE DATE | November 12th 2020 – US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Mexico, South Korea November 19th – Rest of the World | November 12th 2020 – US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Mexico, South Korea November 19th – Rest of the World |
BACKWARDS COMPATIBILITY | Playstation 4 | Playstation 4 |
SOURCE: Playstation
So those are the confirmed system and hardware specs or specifications. Both systems come with a digital only version meaning that the system does not have a disc drive.
DIGITAL VS NORMAL VERSION
For those who may be unfamiliar, a system without a disc drive requires an internet connection in order to download and purchase games. You cannot simply walk into a shop and purchase a game expecting it to work, as there will be no drive in order to insert the purchased disc.
So determining what is right for you is simply down to the disc drive and if you enjoy purchasing physical copies of released games or not, otherwise for the most part the system specs and hardware isn’t much different from the normal console version.
BACKWARDS COMPATIBILITY:
Backwards Compatibility is a much loved and perhaps most requested feature that new systems can have, sadly they do not always come with it.
Due to hardware getting more and more advanced with each passing year, this is a feature that is admittedly one of the most challenging aspects when creating a new system in terms of cost and complexity.
”Backward compatibility can be difficult to achieve because the PlayStation One and PlayStation 2 used CD-ROMS, and the later consoles are incapable of reading those” – Quoted by Ubisoft
It has also been hinted that the team at Sony might just not be interested in adding backwards compatibility as in their opinions no one plays classic titles any more, or at least not many.
”When we’ve dabbled with backwards compatibility, I can say it is one of those features that is much requested, but not actually used much.” – Quoted by Sony
However as it seems both the XBox Series X/S and Playstation 5 will have the ability to run older titles to some degree.
With both the XBox Series X/S being backwards compatible to Xbox One, Xbox 360 and Xbox.
Whereas the Playstation 5 has been confirmed to only support Playstation 4 titles.
Though that may be disappointing with the Playstation 5 especially compared to the XBox Series, we personally are sure that the new system will include the Playstation Store which as many already know tends to feature classic titles that can be played on the current system anyway, the only drawback though is that you will once again need to purchase the title in order to be able to play it.
SOURCE: XBox / GamesIndustry
WILL THE XBOX SERIES X/S & PLAYSTATION 5 SUPPORT OLDER HARDWARE?
This is another highly important question as I’m sure many people who own an older system related hardware would rather save money and use their already purchased hardware on the latest system, we for one found this particular question important.
So can we use old hardware on the new system? If so what exactly is compatible?
PLAYSTATION 5 COMPATIBLE HARDWARE
Here is a complete list of PS4 hardware that is confirmed to work with the PS5 (Thanks to the PS Blog)
- Specialty peripherals, such as officially licensed racing wheels, arcade sticks, and flight sticks, will work with PS5 games and supported PS4 games.
- The Platinum and Gold Wireless Headsets, as well as third-party headsets that connect via USB port or audio jack, will work on PS5 (the headset companion app is not compatible with PS5).
- The DualShock 4 wireless controller and PlayStation officially licensed third-party gamepad controllers will work with supported PS4 games.
- Both the PS Move Motion Controllers and the PlayStation VR Aim Controller will work with supported PS VR games on PS5.
Sony also went on to say that whilst the Dualshock 4 controller will work with PS4 games on the PS5, they also confirmed that the same cannot be said about PS5 specific games. Instead for PS5 titles you will need to use the new PS5 specific controller in order to play those games. Which makes sense right? Using old hardware for new titles would perhaps make the new hardware a complete waste unless you enjoy purchasing all of the latest gadgets and such, which is totally fine of course!
”Will DualShock 4 work with PS5 games?
No, we believe that PS5 games should take advantage of the new capabilities and features we’re bringing to the platform, including the features of DualSense wireless controller.”
Thankfully for those (like us) who enjoy the Playstation VR (PSVR) feature, you can be rest assured that the necessary Playstation Camera will still work on the Playstation 5
”Is the PlayStation Camera for PS4 compatible with PS5?
Yes, PlayStation Camera will work with PS5 for playing supported PS VR games. It will require a PlayStation Camera adaptor that will be provided at no additional cost to PS VR users. More details on how to get the adaptor will be announced at a later date”
XBOX SERIES X/S COMPATIBLE HARDWARE
It has been confirmed that a wide range of XBox One compatible headsets will actually work on the XBox Series X/S, as well as a handful of accessories too
”Additionally, your best Xbox One headset will work on the Xbox Series S and X consoles. Beyond that, almost any accessory will work on the Xbox Series S and X, actually. ” – WindowsCentral
THE XBOX SERIES X/S Vs (PS5) PLAYSTATION 5 CONSOLE DESIGN
The console design is just as important as everything else and each system has always looked different.
In fact the Playstation 5 has been said to look like a Kettle, which is interesting and going by the images below we can see the resemblance too.
PLAYSTATION 5
(Obviously the Kettle isn’t included but the resemblance is definitely there. Images thanks to Sony and RobertShaws, just try not to pour water into the Playstation 5 as it may prove to be costly)
Anyway onto some proper pictures of the actual Playstation 5
As you can tell with the normal edition and digital edition sitting side by side, the disc drive is not present on the digital edition of the system. Otherwise unlike with the XBox Series they look very much alike.
In our opinions it is unfortunate that Sony has opted with the white colour design rather than the black design which both of their Playstation 3 and Playstation 4 where featured in. Perhaps this is something for the future?
Otherwise the design is rather attractive and sleek
XBOX SERIES X/S
(Images Thanks To The Verge)
As for the XBox Series X/S unlike the Playstation 5 these are actually colour coded, with the XBox Series X being in black and the XBox Series S is in white. The XBox Series S is also slightly smaller compared to the XBox Series X too
PLAYSTATION 5 DUALSENSE WIRELESS CONTROLLER SPECIFICATIONS (SPECS)
With a new console system obviously comes the new controller, which is of course a necessary and essential piece of hardware in order to play those amazing titles!
However, what exactly does this new Playstation 5 entitled the ‘DualSense Wireless Controller’ actually have to offer? Lets find out!
Dimensions | Approx. 160mm x 66mm x 106mm (excludes largest projection) (width x height x depth) |
Weight | Approx. 280g |
Buttons | PS button, Create button, Options button, Directional buttons (Up/Down/Left/Right), Action buttons (Triangle, Circle, Cross, Square),R1/L1 button, R2/L2 button (with Trigger Effect)Left stick / L3 button, Right stick / R3 button, Touch Pad button, MUTE button |
Touch Pad | 2 Point Touch Pad, Capacitive Type, Click Mechanism |
Motion Sensor | Six-axis motion sensing system (three-axis gyroscope + three-axis accelerometer) |
Audio | Built-in Microphone Array, Built-in Mono Speaker, Stereo Headset JackOutput : 48kHz/16bit, Input : 24kHz/16bit |
Feedback | Trigger Effect (on R2/L2 button), Vibration (haptic feedback by dual actuators), Indicators (Light bar / Player indicator / MUTE status) |
Ports | USB Type-C® port (Hi-Speed USB), Stereo Headset Jack, Charging Terminals |
Communication | Wireless: Bluetooth® Ver5.1 Wired: USB connection (HID, Audio) |
Battery | Type: Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery Voltage: DC 3.65V Capacity: 1,560mAh |
SOURCE: PS Blog
These new controllers are set to be priced at US$69.99/CAD$89.99/¥6,980/€69.99 (RRP) but one of which will of course be bundled with the purchase of the actual Playstation 5 system
XBOX WIRELESS CONTROLLER
Just like with the Playstation 5, the new XBox Series X/S also comes complete with a new gamepad too.
FINE-TUNED PERFORMANCE
The new Xbox Wireless Controller brings elegant design, refined comfort and instant sharing to a familiar favourite.
YOU WIN
Show off. Tap the share button to eternalise your conquest.
GET A GRIP
Textured triggers and bumpers hold tight to keep you from slipping.
FULL CIRCLE
Updated in every direction. The new hybrid D-pad lets you crush combos without crossing fingers.
SOURCE: XBox
(PS5) PLAYSTATION 5 Vs XBOX SERIES X/S
LAUNCH GAMES / TITLES
So you have a new console or are at least debating on which one to get, the key question is which system has the best games available?
I mean it is rather silly to purchase a new system and not have a valid game in order to be able to play on it after all
So here we go, for this next one we will be delving into what the launch titles will be for both systems
(PS5) PLAYSTATION 5 – LAUNCH GAMES / TITLES
Come November 12th or November 19th (depending on where you live), there will be a total of 7 brand new launch titles to choose from to go alongside your new purchase.
This includes:
- Astro’s Playroom (Japan Studio) – pre-installed on PS5
- Demon’s Souls (Bluepoint Games / Japan Studio) – US$69.99/CAD$89.99/¥7,900/€79.99 (RRP)
- Destruction All Stars (Lucid Games / XDEV) – US$69.99/CAD$89.99/¥7,900/€79.99 (RRP)
- Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales (Insomniac Games) – US$49.99/CAD$64.99/¥5,900/€59.99(RRP)
- Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales Ultimate Edition (Insomniac Games) – US$69.99/CAD$89.99/¥7,900/€79.99 (RRP)
- Sackboy A Big Adventure (Sumo Digital / XDEV) – US$59.99/CAD$79.99/¥6,900/€69.99(RRP)
- Godfall
- Just Dance 2021
SOURCE: PS Blog
ASTRO’S PLAYROOM
Astro and his crew lead you on a magical introduction through PS5 in this fun platformer that comes pre-loaded on PS5. Explore four worlds, each based on PS5’s console components. Each area showcases innovative gameplay that taps into the new features of the PS5’s DualSense wireless controller. Astro’s Playroom is coming to PlayStation 5.
DEMON’S SOULS
In Demon’s Souls, venture into the fog-ridden kingdom of Boletaria. Here, death is not the end, and again the challenge seems insurmountable. But this dark world draws you in nonetheless, with its sumptuous sights and chilling sounds. Through the power of the DualSense controller’s haptics, you feel every visceral blow, making even small victories all the sweeter.
DESTRUCTION ALL STARS
Dominate the glittering global phenomenon of Destruction AllStars – the spectacular prime-time sport for dangerous drivers! Master the art of intense vehicle-based combat through timing, tactics and skills to cause colossal amounts of damage, destruction and devastation in vibrant arenas across the globe.
MARVEL’S SPIDER-MAN: MILES MORALES
Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales is the sequel to the 2018 Playstation 4 game. You control young Miles Morales in his adventure as the next Spider-Man
SACKBOY: A BIG ADVENTURE
Iconic PlayStation hero, Sackboy returns in an all-new 3D adventure with a deeply immersive and expressive control scheme. Players can go on this epic platforming journey solo-style, or they can team up with friends for collaborative, chaotic multiplayer fun. Sackboy A Big Adventure is coming to PlayStation 5.
GODFALL
Settle in for an extended look at combat in Godfall, a looter-slasher and brand new, fantasy IP coming to PS5 this holiday. Enjoy nine minutes of footage diving deep into the world off Aperion, the five weapon classes, complete movesets for Longswords and Dual Blades, and more, all running on PlayStation 5.
JUST DANCE 2021
Get ready for the new Just Dance 2021! Watch to take a sneak peak at the upcoming song list for the latest installment in the Just Dance game series.
For Playstation Plus members and those who manage to net themselves a Playstation 5 can also enjoy a wide range of Playstation 4 titles such as; Batman Arkham Knight, Bloodborne, Fallout 4, God of War, Monster Hunter: World, Persona 5 and many more for a single subscription price.
SOURCE: PS Blog
XBOX SERIES X/S – LAUNCH GAMES TITLES
Unlike with the (PS5) Playstation 5, the XBox Series X/S will feature a total of 13 launch titles that will all be releasing this November 10th
These include:
- Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla
- Dirt 5
- FIFA 21
- Fortnite
- Gears 5 (Series X Upgraded)
- Gears Tactics
- Marvel’s Avengers
- NBA 2K21
- Observer: System Redux
- Tetris Effect: Connected
- The Falconeer
- Watch Dogs Legion
- Yakuza: Like a Dragon
SOURCE: Gamespot
ASSASSIN’S CREED: VALHALLA
In Assassin’s Creed® Valhalla, you are Eivor, a fierce Viking warrior raised on tales of battle and glory. Explore a dynamic and beautiful open world set against the brutal backdrop of England’s Dark Ages. Raid your enemies, grow your settlement, and build your political power in your quest to earn your place among the gods in Valhalla.
DIRT 5
Design your dream racing event and tear up incredible user-created arenas in Playgrounds, the brand new mode for DIRT 5. From custom gymkhana arenas, to bespoke time trial races, to thrilling treasure hunt events, use a huge suite of objects – from drift zones and jumps, to rings of fire and loop-de-loops – to invent unbelievable and unique Playgrounds. Browse our database of player-generated designs to constantly find new racing experiences, with Featured areas regularly updated to showcase the very best creations. Playgrounds is included in all versions of DIRT 5, and the creations of players on current-gen consoles will be carried over when you switch to next-gen consoles!
FIFA 21
Manage every moment in FIFA 21 Career Mode with new depth in matches, transfers, and training. On the street and in the stadium, see what’s new in FIFA 21.
FORTNITE
Fortnite is the free, always evolving, multiplayer game where you and your friends battle to be the last one standing or collaborate to create your dream Fortnite world. Play both Battle Royale and Fortnite Creative for FREE. Download now and jump into the action. This download also gives you a path to purchase the Save the World co-op PvE campaign.
GEARS 5 (SERIES X/S UPGRADED)
Bound by Blood
From one of gaming’s most acclaimed sagas, Gears is bigger than ever, with five thrilling modes and the deepest campaign yet. With all-out war descending, Kait Diaz breaks away to uncover her connection to the enemy and discovers the true danger to Sera – herself.
MARVEL’S AVENGERS
Marvel’s Avengers is an epic, third-person, action-adventure game that combines an original, cinematic story with single-player and co-operative gameplay*. Assemble into a team of up to four players online, master extraordinary abilities, customize a growing roster of Heroes, and defend the Earth from escalating threats.
NBA 2K21
The dunks, fadeaways, shoes, music, and more—see how Everything is Game in the NBA 2K21
OBSERVER: SYSTEM REDUX
The year is 2084. If you somehow survived the Nanophage, odds are you were killed in the War. Those who live have turned to drugs, VR, neural implants— anything to distract themselves from this new reality.
TETRIS EFFECT: CONNECTED
Tetris® Effect: Connected will be available on the Xbox Series X, Xbox One, and Windows 10 (PC, Windows Store), as well as the Xbox Game Pass and Smart Delivery programs, when it launches alongside Xbox Series X in Holiday 2020.
THE FALCONEER
From the clouds they dive, the screams of battle in their lungs… Preserve the past or flee its terrible consequences in The Falconeer, an open-world air combat game. Soar through the skies aboard a devastatingly powerful warbird, and uncover secrets lost to the sea as you join or oppose different factions and clans scattered throughout the mysterious world of The Great Ursee. Launching this holiday season for the Xbox One S, Xbox One X, Xbox Series X and PC.
WATCH DOGS LEGION
About Watch Dogs: Legion
It is time to take back London, and anyone you see in this iconic city can be recruited to your resistance. Corrupt opportunists have taken over and it’s up to you to build a resistance to give the city back to the people. With an entire population of potential recruits and the city’s technology at your fingertips, you’ll need to hack, infiltrate, and fight your way to liberate London. Welcome to the Resistance.
Key Features
PLAY AS ANYONE
Build a team with a huge range of characters to choose from, all bringing their own unique abilities. From a brilliant hacker to a getaway driver, from a football hooligan to an inconspicuous old lady, everyone has a unique backstory, personality, and skillset that should be used in unique situations. Customize your Legion with enhanced gadgets, unique outfits and iconic masks.
AN IMMERSIVE STORY
After a mysterious assailant initiates devastating terror attacks on London, DedSec, a secret underground resistance who is being blamed for the attacks and is on the brink of annihilation, needs your help. Your mission is to rebuild DedSec to fight back against those who wish to keep London oppressed. You will continue to meet colorful characters along the way – both villains and allies – in your fight for London.
HACKING IS YOUR WEAPON
Weaponize London’s tech infrastructure, and unleash DedSec’s mastery of technology: hijack armed combat drones, reconstruct past events using augmented reality to discover who is behind the terror attacks, and hack your way through the most advanced security systems. Upgrade and deploy tech gadgets such as the Stealth Cloak, the Spiderbot, a Micro-Missile Launcher, and the powerful Electro Fist in a brand new melee system.
LIBERATE AN OPEN WORLD LONDON
Explore a massive urban open world and fight to liberate London’s many famous landmarks—including Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Camden, Piccadilly Circus, or the London Eye—and engage in side activities like bareknuckle boxing, darts, freestyle football, illegal courier contracts or street art.
TEAM UP WITH FRIENDS
Join forces with up to three friends in online multiplayer as you freely explore London together or take on special co-op missions, and unique game modes. Enjoy free regular updates adding new online content, rewards and themed events.
YAKUZA: LIKE A DRAGON
Yakuza: Like a Dragon launches Day 1 on Xbox Series X! Become Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza grunt left on the brink of death by the man he trusted most. Take up your legendary bat and get ready to crack some underworld skulls in dynamic RPG combat set against the backdrop of modern-day Japan.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX?
Considering that I have seen this question asked before, I thought I would also add this section too.
When purchasing a new system and especially if you are new to purchasing such media then this may become a bit confusing as to what exactly do you get when you purchase your new entertainment system..
Well lets see shall we?
INCLUDED WITH THE (PS5) PLAYSTATION 5
- PLAYSTATION 5 (DIGITAL EDITION)
- Model Number: CFI-1015B
- PlayStation 5 Digital Edition
- Wireless controller
- 825 GB SSD
- HDMI Cable
- AC power cord
- USB cable
- Instruction Manual
- Astro’s Playroom (Pre-installed game. console may need to be updated to the latest system software version. Internet connection required.)
PLAYSTATION 5
- Model Number: CFI-1015A
- PlayStation 5 Console
- Wireless controller
- 825 GB SSD
- HDMI Cable
- AC power cord
- USB cable
- Instruction Manual
- Astro’s Playroom (Pre-installed game. console may need to be updated to the latest system software version. Internet connection required.)
SOURCE: Gamespot
XBOX SERIES X
- XBox Series X Console
- XBox Wireless Controller
- Ultra High Speed HDMI cable
XBOX SERIES S
- XBox Series S Console
- XBox Wireless Controller
- Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable
SOURCE: XBox
The Playstation 5 (PS5) is developed by the team at Sony and is due to release this November 12th – 19th
The XBox Series X/S is developed by the team at Microsoft, it was formerly known as Project Scarlett. The system is due to release this November 10th 2020
RELATED LINKS / NEWS
- Tulin of Rito Village – Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom - 1st June 2023
- Impa and the Geoglyphs – Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom - 29th May 2023
- Regional Phenomena (Rito Village) – Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom - 28th May 2023