PCMag editors select and review products independently. If you buy through affiliate links, we may earn commissions, which help support our testing.

Microsoft's Carbon Black Xbox Series S Includes 1TB of Storage

Double the storage and it only costs $50 more than the standard Series S.

 & Matthew Humphries Former Senior Editor

Our team tests, rates, and reviews more than 1,500 products each year to help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology.

Our Expert
LOOK INSIDE PC LABS HOW WE TEST
65 EXPERTS
43 YEARS
41,500+ REVIEWS

Microsoft is launching a new model of the Xbox Series S with double the storage of the original model.

As Xbox Wire reports, Phil Spencer revealed the new model as part of the Xbox Showcase. As well as doubling the storage to 1TB, this new model drops the white finish for carbon black. It also costs $50 more at $349.99 and will launch worldwide on Sept. 1. Microsoft points out that's just in time to play Starfield, which launches on Sept. 6.

The Series S does not have a disc drive and its storage expansion cards remain expensive even though Seagate finally has some competition. With that in mind, doubling the available storage for just $50 will quickly make the carbon black model the most popular Series S, and it wouldn't be a surprise to see Microsoft phase out the standard model early next year.

This new Series S will include a matching carbon black controller, but you could always pick up a second one made from old Xbox controllers. Microsoft would also like you to sign-up for an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, which means you will be able to play Starfield on launch day without needing to purchase the game.

About Our Expert

Matthew Humphries

Matthew Humphries

Former Senior Editor

My Experience

I started working at PCMag in November 2016, covering all areas of technology and video game news. Before that I spent nearly 15 years working at Geek.com as a writer and editor. I also spent the first six years after leaving university as a professional game designer working with Disney, Games Workshop, 20th Century Fox, and Vivendi.

I hold two degrees: a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and a Master's degree in Games Development. My first book, Make Your Own Pixel Art, is available from all good book shops.

My Areas of Expertise

  • PC components and system building
  • Raspberry Pi
  • Software development
  • Storage technology
  • Video games and gaming hardware

Read full bio