Ps5 Slim Vs Xbox Series S Can The Smaller Console Handle Next Gen Gaming Smoothly

The evolution of gaming consoles has taken a fascinating turn with the release of slimmer, more compact models. Sony’s PS5 Slim and Microsoft’s Xbox Series S represent two distinct philosophies in the world of next-gen gaming: one focused on refinement and backward compatibility, the other on affordability and digital-first accessibility. But when it comes to actual performance—can these smaller consoles truly deliver a smooth next-generation experience?

Next-gen gaming promises 4K visuals, ray tracing, high frame rates, and fast load times. While both consoles are marketed as part of this new era, their hardware capabilities differ significantly. This article dives deep into how the PS5 Slim and Xbox Series S stack up in real-world performance, game compatibility, visual fidelity, and long-term viability.

Design and Hardware: Compact Doesn’t Always Mean Equal

The PS5 Slim is a revised version of the original PS5, designed to be smaller and lighter while retaining most of the core specs. It maintains the same CPU and GPU architecture as the standard model but features reduced internal storage (with an expandable SSD slot) and a detachable disc drive for physical media flexibility.

In contrast, the Xbox Series S was built from the ground up as a budget-friendly alternative to the Xbox Series X. It features a custom AMD RDNA 2 GPU with 4 TFLOPs of power—less than half the 12 TFLOPs of the Series X—and a lower-tier CPU clocked slightly below its bigger sibling. It lacks an optical drive entirely and ships with only 512GB of internal storage (around 364GB usable).

Tip: Consider expanding storage early—both consoles support NVMe SSDs, but the Series S’s limited base storage fills up quickly with modern game sizes.

Despite their similar form factors, the hardware disparity is significant. The PS5 Slim runs at full next-gen spec: 36 CUs on its GPU, 10.3 TFLOPs of power, and a 4K-capable UHD Blu-ray drive (on the disc edition). The Series S, meanwhile, targets 1440p output with dynamic resolution scaling, often dropping below that in demanding titles.

Performance Comparison: Frame Rates, Resolution, and Load Times

One of the defining metrics of next-gen gaming is consistent performance. Both consoles use SSDs to drastically reduce loading times compared to previous generations. However, raw speed doesn’t tell the whole story.

The PS5 Slim benefits from a faster SSD interface (5.5 GB/s raw bandwidth) and superior memory bandwidth, allowing developers to stream assets more efficiently. Games like Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart showcase near-instant transitions between dimensions and seamless open-world traversal.

The Xbox Series S also leverages fast storage, but due to its lower GPU power and memory bandwidth, developers must make trade-offs. Many cross-platform titles run at lower resolutions (often 1080p or upscaled 1440p), reduced texture quality, and sometimes lower frame rates or less stable performance. For example, Forza Horizon 5 runs at 30 FPS by default on Series S in favor of graphical fidelity, while the PS5 Slim offers a 60 FPS performance mode without major compromises.

“While the Series S delivers impressive value, it’s clear that not all ‘next-gen’ features are equally accessible across platforms.” — James McQuillan, Senior Editor at Digital Foundry

Real-World Game Performance Table

Game Title	PS5 Slim Resolution	Xbox Series S Resolution	Frame Rate (PS5 Slim)	Frame Rate (Series S)	Load Time (Approx.)
God of War: Ragnarök	4K (dynamic)	1440p (upscaled)	30–60 FPS (performance mode)	30 FPS (target)	PS5: ~12 sec | S: ~22 sec
Horizon Forbidden West	4K HDR	1800p dynamic	60 FPS (performance mode)	30 FPS (60 FPS optional)	PS5: ~15 sec | S: ~28 sec
Halo Infinite	1440p–4K (dynamic)	1080p–1440p	60 FPS (stable)	60 FPS (variable stability)	PS5: ~18 sec | S: ~30 sec
Returnal	4K/60 FPS	Not available	60 FPS	N/A	PS5 Only Title

As shown, the PS5 Slim consistently supports higher resolutions and smoother frame rates. The Series S performs admirably given its price point, but it's clearly operating within tighter technical constraints.

Visual Fidelity and Ray Tracing: The Next-Gen Benchmark

Ray tracing—the simulation of realistic light behavior—is one of the flagship features of next-gen consoles. It enhances reflections, shadows, and ambient occlusion, making games look more cinematic.

The PS5 Slim handles ray tracing in select titles like Demon’s Souls, Control: Ultimate Edition, and Spider-Man: Miles Morales. These implementations maintain a balance between visual quality and performance, typically running at 30 FPS in ray-traced modes.

The Xbox Series S also supports ray tracing, but due to its weaker GPU, effects are often simplified or come with heavier performance penalties. In Watch Dogs: Legion, for instance, the Series S enables ray-traced shadows but at a capped 30 FPS and reduced draw distance. Texture filtering and shadow resolution are also dialed back.

Moreover, some PS5 exclusives do not launch on the Series S at all, limiting access to certain next-gen experiences. Titles like Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut and Final Fantasy XVI are PlayStation-only, meaning Xbox players miss out regardless of their hardware preferences.

Game Library and Ecosystem: Beyond Raw Power

Hardware is only one part of the equation. The ecosystem surrounding each console plays a crucial role in determining whether “next-gen” feels truly next-gen.

Sony continues to invest heavily in first-party studios. Games like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Helldivers 2, and Wolverine (upcoming) are designed to push the PS5’s hardware, using the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers to create immersive gameplay. These features are absent on Xbox controllers, limiting tactile innovation.

Microsoft counters with Game Pass—a subscription service offering hundreds of titles, including day-one releases from Bethesda and Activision Blizzard. The Series S gains immense value here: for $299, users get access to a vast library, cloud gaming, and backward compatibility with thousands of older Xbox titles.

However, many Game Pass titles still require downloads and local storage. With only 364GB of usable space, the Series S forces frequent game deletions unless expanded. The PS5 Slim offers 1TB in its base model (disc version), reducing this friction.

Mini Case Study: Alex’s Upgrade Dilemma

Alex, a college student on a tight budget, wanted to enter the next-gen space without overspending. He considered both the PS5 Slim and Xbox Series S. After researching, he chose the Series S for its Game Pass integration and small footprint. At first, he loved having instant access to games like Starfield and Hi-Fi Rush.

But over time, he noticed limitations. Starfield ran at 1080p with frequent dips below 30 FPS during combat. Loading screens were longer than expected, and installing additional titles meant constantly managing storage. When friends invited him to play Resident Evil Village in 4K with ray tracing, he couldn’t join—they were on PS5.

After six months, Alex upgraded to a PS5 Slim, trading Game Pass convenience for better performance and exclusive content. His takeaway: “The Series S got me started, but if you want the full next-gen feel, you need the horsepower to match.”

Future-Proofing: Will These Consoles Last?

Next-gen consoles are expected to last five to seven years. The question isn’t just about today’s games—but tomorrow’s.

The PS5 Slim, with its stronger GPU, higher RAM bandwidth, and larger storage options, is better positioned to handle increasingly demanding titles. Developers may begin optimizing primarily for PS5/Xbox Series X-level hardware, treating the Series S as a secondary platform. This trend is already visible: some indie developers skip Series S optimization altogether due to complexity and low returns.

Additionally, upcoming technologies—like AI-driven upscaling, VR integration (via PSVR2), and more advanced physics engines—are likely to favor higher-end hardware. The PS5 Slim supports all current and announced PSVR2 features; the Series S has no official VR roadmap.

Tip: If you plan to keep your console beyond 2027, prioritize hardware headroom. The PS5 Slim offers more longevity than the Series S.

Checklist: Choosing Between PS5 Slim and Xbox Series S

• ✅ Determine your display: Are you playing on a 4K TV or monitor? The PS5 Slim makes better use of it.
• ✅ Evaluate your internet and storage needs: Series S requires more reliance on cloud and external drives.
• ✅ Consider exclusive titles: Do you care about PlayStation exclusives like God of War or The Last of Us?
• ✅ Assess your budget: Series S saves $200 upfront but may limit future options.
• ✅ Think about multiplayer: Are your friends on PlayStation or Xbox Live?
• ✅ Factor in Game Pass: If you love variety and discovery, Xbox’s subscription is unmatched.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Xbox Series S run games at 4K?

No, the Xbox Series S does not natively render games at 4K. It targets 1440p output, which is upscaled to 4K on compatible displays. Some games use checkerboard rendering or dynamic scaling, but true 4K resolution is reserved for the Xbox Series X and PS5.

Is the PS5 Slim worth upgrading to from the original PS5?

If you value a smaller design, easier vertical placement, or want the option to remove the disc drive, yes. Performance-wise, it’s identical to the standard PS5. The main benefit is physical convenience, not enhanced gameplay.

Does the Series S support 120Hz gaming?

Yes, but very few games actually run at 120 FPS on the Series S due to hardware limitations. Titles like Fortnite and Call of Duty: Warzone offer a 120 FPS mode, but often at reduced resolution and visual settings. The PS5 Slim supports 120Hz in more titles, including Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition and Mortal Kombat 11.

Conclusion: Can Smaller Consoles Handle Next-Gen Gaming Smoothly?

The answer depends on what you mean by “smoothly.” The Xbox Series S delivers a functional next-gen experience—fast loading, modern UI, and access to new titles—but often at a compromise. Lower resolutions, inconsistent frame rates, and missing graphical features mean it doesn’t fully embody the leap that defined the generation.

The PS5 Slim, while only a physical revision, retains the full power of the original PS5. It runs games at higher fidelity, supports advanced features like 3D audio and adaptive triggers, and ensures broader compatibility with future titles. Its smaller size doesn’t diminish its capability—it enhances accessibility without sacrificing performance.

For casual gamers who prioritize cost and convenience, the Series S remains a compelling entry point. But for those seeking a truly smooth, immersive, and future-ready next-gen experience, the PS5 Slim is the superior choice. Compact design doesn’t have to mean compromised performance—and in this case, Sony proves that smaller can still be powerful.

💬 Which console fits your gaming lifestyle? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments—let’s discuss the real-world impact of size versus power in next-gen gaming.