Can Xbox Series S Run 120fps Games Like Series X?

The Xbox Series S is capable of running games at 120 frames per second, matching the high-refresh-rate capability of the more powerful Xbox Series X, though with some significant compromises. While both consoles support 120Hz output, the Series S often targets lower resolutions and reduced graphical fidelity to maintain that high frame rate. This article explores the technical limitations, compatible titles, and display requirements needed to achieve 120fps gaming on Microsoft’s budget-friendly next-gen console.

Hardware Capabilities and Trade-Offs

At the core of the performance difference lies the hardware specification. The Xbox Series X boasts a significantly more powerful GPU with 12 teraflops of processing power, whereas the Xbox Series S operates with 4 teraflops. Despite this disparity, Microsoft designed both consoles with the same CPU architecture and high-speed SSD, allowing the Series S to access the same next-gen features, including 120fps support. However, achieving these high frame rates on the less powerful hardware requires developers to make substantial adjustments to visual quality.

Resolution and Graphical Settings

To hit 120fps on the Xbox Series S, games frequently drop their resolution target. While the Series X often aims for 4K at 60fps or 1440p at 120fps, the Series S typically targets 1080p or 1440p at 120fps. In many competitive shooters like Call of Duty or Halo Infinite, the console may use dynamic resolution scaling, dropping the pixel count during intense action scenes to ensure the frame rate remains stable. Textures, shadows, and draw distances are also often reduced to lessen the load on the GPU, ensuring the smooth gameplay experience remains the priority over visual fidelity.

Game Support and Optimization

Not every game that runs at 120fps on the Series X will automatically do so on the Series S. Support depends entirely on developer optimization. Some titles offer a specific performance mode for the Series S that unlocks 120Hz, while others may lock the frame rate at 60fps to preserve visual quality on the budget hardware. Players should check the specific game settings or official patch notes to confirm if a 120fps mode is available for the Series S version of a title. Generally, first-party Microsoft titles and competitive multiplayer games are the most likely to support this feature.

Display and Connection Requirements

Achieving 120fps gaming requires more than just the console; the display setup must also be compatible. Users need a monitor or TV that supports a 120Hz refresh rate over HDMI. While HDMI 2.1 is ideal for 4K at 120Hz, the Xbox Series S often outputs 120fps at lower resolutions via HDMI 2.0. Additionally, users must enable the 120Hz option in the console’s display settings and ensure their cable is high-speed enough to handle the bandwidth. Without a compatible display, the console will default to 60Hz, regardless of the game’s performance capabilities.

Conclusion

In summary, the Xbox Series S can indeed run games at 120fps, offering a smooth experience similar to the Xbox Series X, but it achieves this through strategic reductions in resolution and graphical detail. It is a viable option for competitive gamers who prioritize frame rate over visual sharpness, provided they have the correct display hardware. While it may not match the Series X in raw power or consistent 4K output, the Series S successfully delivers high-refresh-rate gaming within its budget constraints.