Xbox One S tested: HDR image and volume

For the image test of the Xbox One S itself: The picture representation on the LG OLED is remarkably clear, sharp and detailed. It seems as if the debates around Microsoft’s HDR images of the two UHD player models were taken care of and the console was tuned accordingly. The rich tone colors in the “Marsian” are more effective. Also dark forest scenes in Leo DiCaprios “Revenant” provide powerful details.


Loud drive


For security, we have the Xbox One S also connected to a two-year-old 4K TV from Samsung. This does not have HDR, but leaves no doubt at the considerable depth of the 4K-representation. In order to enjoy the 4K experience, it is also important to choose the right HDMI input on the TV, or on the AV receiver. With many TV devices are not all, often even only one HDMI input HDCP-2.2-capable. Also our console makes some connections when connected to non-HDCP-2.2-capable inputs of an AVR. However, without this hardware-based copy protection, Ultra-HD programs can not be processed.


Xbox One S photographed


The Xbox One S can be much more. We have consciously ignored your game functions in our test. The qualities of the console are above all passionate gamers however sufficiently well-known. The speed and almost seamless transitions between various sources, the program guide OneGuide and the easy to understand operation convince also non-players. Pleasant discovery: As part of the setup menu, you will find a calibration guide for TVs. In a few steps, you can improve the TV picture in terms of colors, contrast and brightness.


Less beautiful: The volume of the drive, which is very audible when playing Ultra HD Blu-rays in the usual living room size. The two Terabyte large, internal hard disk provides a good basis for downloads of games, but also of movies. The fact that the Xbox One S is significantly smaller and lighter, may only find important who knows the previous versions. However, to fit into the home cinema, Microsoft has not only given the console its compactness but also a stand to be able to raise the white box.