The Xbox Series S could match the Xbox Series X when it comes to CPU power. That’s bad news for Sony and the PS5, but it could be a huge win for budget-conscious gamers.
We have this new information about the S Series, also known as Project Lockheart, from a tweet by Tom Warren of The Verge (via GameSpot). Warren has a reliable track record when it comes to Microsoft rumors, so this tip carries some weight. It was also one of the sources of the original rumor that the S Series would have a sub-accelerated CPU, so it’s worth taking note of the fact that it’s reviewing its statement.
While the CPU is the same speed, Warren says the GPU is less powerful, contains fewer control units (CU), and has a lower clock speed. Since the Xbox Series X is already more powerful than the PS5 in terms of GPU output, hopefully this detune does not mean that the S Series falls far short of what the PS5 can handle.
Warren also mentions that the S Series will run with 7.5GB of RAM, which is roughly half of the 16GB of RAM that will pack both the Xbox Series X and PS5.
The S series will be able to display 1440p screen output, Warren continues. This is one step below the X Series’ maximum 4K output, but still decent. And if you don’t own a 4K TV, this setup may be more ideal for you.
The Lockhart Project has long been rumored to be Microsoft’s second line of attack against Sony, as a way to increase its user base among potential gamers who can’t afford front-line hardware. Sony has the PS5 digital edition as a cheaper option, cutting the Blu-ray disc drive to cut some of the final cost (though we’re still not sure how much any of the PS5s will cost). If the S Series is much cheaper than the X Series, then gamers who don’t have all the hardware to take advantage of the full capabilities of the PS5 might be inclined to buy the cheapest console from Microsoft.
There is still no official statement regarding the existence of the S Series. As far as we know, the Xbox Series X and PS5 (both standard and digital edition) will only be released around November of this year. In addition to the details of performance and pricing, we know that each console will be capable of ray tracing graphics, fast SSD loading, and each will have a group of exclusive, next-gen shared titles at launch. The console’s next big showcase is Microsoft’s exclusive event in July, which will showcase titles like Halo Infinite while also revealing some new hardware.
