Which Xbox One S is All-Digital? A Comprehensive Guide
The Xbox One S All-Digital Edition is the specific Xbox One S model that is designed for disc-free gaming. It’s important to distinguish this version from the standard Xbox One S, which includes a built-in disc drive. The All-Digital Edition was created to offer a more affordable entry point into the Xbox ecosystem for gamers primarily interested in digital downloads and streaming services. Let’s delve into what makes this console unique and address some common questions surrounding it.
Understanding the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition
The core difference between the Xbox One S and the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition lies in the presence, or lack thereof, of an optical disc drive. The standard Xbox One S includes a 4K Blu-ray player, allowing users to play physical games, Blu-ray movies, and DVDs. In contrast, the All-Digital Edition removes this drive, making it strictly a digital console. This means that games must be purchased and downloaded from the Xbox store, and physical media cannot be used.
This design choice enabled Microsoft to offer the All-Digital Edition at a lower price point upon its initial release. It aimed to appeal to a growing segment of gamers who prefer the convenience and accessibility of digital content over physical copies. However, it’s important to note that while it shares the same graphical capabilities as the standard Xbox One S, its functionality is reduced in terms of media playback.
Key Features of the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition
- Disc-Free Gaming: This is the defining feature. All games must be downloaded digitally.
- Identical Performance to Xbox One S: Shares the same graphical power and processing capabilities as the standard Xbox One S.
- Digital Focus: Designed for users who are comfortable with digital libraries and streaming entertainment.
- Bundled Games: The console often came bundled with download codes for games like Minecraft, Sea of Thieves, and Fortnite Battle Royale.
- Lower Initial Price: Typically sold at a lower price than the standard Xbox One S due to the lack of a disc drive.
- Digital Game Flexibility: Provides remote installation and preloading capabilities.
- Streaming Capability: Supports 4K streaming and upscaling of games.
What about the Xbox Series S?
It’s also crucial to differentiate the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition from the newer Xbox Series S. The Series S is also an all-digital console, but it is part of the next generation of Xbox consoles. It offers significantly upgraded performance and is capable of 1440p gaming (with 4K upscaling) and comes equipped with a custom SSD for faster loading times. The Xbox Series S also does not play physical game discs.
While both consoles focus on digital gaming, they are from different generations and have vastly different performance capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition still being manufactured?
No. Microsoft has discontinued the production of all Xbox One consoles, including the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition, to focus on the Xbox Series X and Series S. Production ceased at the end of 2020, so any units found today are from existing retailer stock.
2. Does the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition play Blu-ray movies or DVDs?
No. The absence of a disc drive means that the All-Digital Edition cannot play physical media, including Blu-ray movies, DVDs, or games on disc.
3. Can I use my old Xbox One games on the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition?
Yes, but only if you own them digitally. The Xbox One S All-Digital Edition can play any digital games you have purchased previously on your Xbox account. However, physical disc games are not compatible.
4. Is the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition compatible with Xbox Game Pass?
Yes, it is fully compatible with Xbox Game Pass. You can download and play any games that are part of your Xbox Game Pass subscription.
5. Does the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition support 4K resolution?
The Xbox One S All-Digital Edition supports 4K streaming for video content and upscaling games to 4K. However, it does not natively render 4K games like the Xbox One X or Xbox Series X.
6. What was the release date of the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition?
The Xbox One S All-Digital Edition was released on May 7, 2019.
7. Is the Xbox Series S also all digital?
Yes, the Xbox Series S is designed for disc-free gaming. It does not have an optical disc drive.
8. What kind of storage does the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition have?
The Xbox One S All-Digital Edition typically came with a 1TB hard drive, although the system software uses a significant amount of storage, leaving less available for user content.
9. Can I use an external hard drive with the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition?
Yes, you can connect an external hard drive to the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition to expand your storage space.
10. Is the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition better than the standard Xbox One S?
It depends on your preferences. The Xbox One S is more versatile with its disc drive, but the All-Digital Edition offered a more affordable entry point for those who prefer digital gaming. However, the reduced functionality of the All-Digital makes it a less flexible option overall.
11. Is the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition worth buying in 2023?
Considering it is discontinued and new hardware is readily available, it is often not the best choice in 2023. The Xbox Series S offers superior performance at a reasonable price. However, if you find a used Xbox One S All-Digital Edition at a very low price and are strictly a digital gamer on a tight budget, it might be an option.
12. What are the benefits of an all-digital console?
The main benefits include the convenience of digital downloads, remote installation, and preloading, along with the avoidance of physical discs. However, a fast and reliable internet connection is essential.
13. Is the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition compatible with Xbox 360 games?
Yes, via backward compatibility. You can play a selection of Xbox and Xbox 360 games that are digitally available on your Xbox One S All-Digital. However, physical Xbox 360 game discs will not work.
14. How much did the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition cost?
The initial price of the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition was $249. However, pricing varies based on retailers.
15. What does “all-digital” mean in the context of gaming consoles?
An “all-digital” console means that it does not have a disc drive. All games and media must be downloaded from online stores, requiring a reliable internet connection.
Conclusion
The Xbox One S All-Digital Edition stands out as a specific model designed for a disc-free gaming experience. It offers the same graphical power as the standard Xbox One S but removes the disc drive, making it a more affordable option initially for those fully committed to digital gaming. While it has been discontinued, understanding its specific features and limitations can help you make informed decisions when exploring options on the used market. If you are looking for a modern all-digital console, the Xbox Series S is the recommended choice, offering superior performance in a disc-free package.