Microsoft Xbox 360 S (250GB)
Manufacturer: Microsoft Part number: RKH-00001
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Product series
- Accessories
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- Though the new Xbox 360 certainly addresses most of the concerns we've had with the versions before it, we don't think it warrants a purchase if you already own an Xbox 360 in working order with an HDMI-out port and a hard drive.
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CNET editors' review
Microsoft Xbox 360 S (250GB) price range: $249.99 - $554.98
- Reviewed by: Jeff Bakalar
- Reviewed on: 06/24/2010
- Released on: 06/23/2010
The good: Sleeker design; 17 percent smaller; much quieter operation; better cooling; touch-sensitive power and disc tray; 250GB hard drive; built-in Wi-Fi; five USB ports; dedicated Kinect port; onboard optical digital audio.
The bad: The hard drive is still proprietary; controller on D-pad remains unchanged; cumbersome power block; renders existing faceplates useless; no cables for HD gaming out of the box.
The bottom line: Though the new Xbox 360 certainly addresses most of the concerns we've had with the versions before it, we don't think it warrants a purchase if you already own an Xbox 360 in working order with an HDMI-out port and a hard drive.
Microsoft kick-started the "next-generation" of gaming on November 22, 2005, when the company released the Xbox 360, beating both Nintendo and Sony to market. Since then, the console has sold roughly 40 million units worldwide and has brought some innovative ideas to the gaming industry in the form of Xbox Live, the online marketplace, and gamer achievements.
The console is not without its shortcomings, though. Most notably, the infamous "red ring of death" controversy has plagued the system since its launch. The defect can be traced to the system's inability to properly dissipate heat, which in turn renders some of the vital innards unusable. Though Microsoft has remained quiet about an exact fail rate percentage, some analysts have that number as high as 40 percent, with recent reports hovering around a one in four odds of failing within the first two years of ownership. Other complaints vary from lack of built-in Wi-Fi to denying users the ability to replace the hard drive like the PlayStation 3 offers.
At E3 2010, Microsoft unveiled an Xbox 360 redesigned from the ground up. Officially referred to as the "S" console--or Slim, as we've come to call it--the latest iteration packs a 250GB hard drive, built-in Wi-Fi, and a new design that's about 17 percent smaller than the previous models.
The new Xbox 360 certainly addresses most of the concerns we've had with the versions before it, but we don't think it warrants a purchase if you already own an Xbox 360 in working order with an HDMI-out port and a hard drive.
In this review we'll look at what's new in the Xbox 360 Slim, so for those who are interested in a look at the complete Xbox 360 experience, we recommend reading our reviews of the consoles prior.
Design
The new Xbox 360 ditches the matte-plastic encasing seen on the white and Elite versions and instead opts for the now-infamous fingerprint magnet glossy black finish that covers so many gadgets of today. The console measures in at 2.9 inches tall by 10.6 inches wide by 10.4 inches deep and weighs a bit over 6 pounds, making it noticeably smaller than its big brother.
There are far fewer buttons on the new Xbox 360; most notably absent are the disc tray and power buttons from the previous consoles. Instead, both are now touch-sensitive; a small notch above the disc tray opens it, and the unit can be turned on simply by touching the circular silver power area. Also, a tone is played from inside the console whenever either of the two touch areas is engaged.
The silver power circle also represents the number of controllers connected and will rotate depending on how the console is oriented (either horizontally or vertically). Past 360 owners will associate this area with the "red ring of death" error message, but Microsoft has removed red LEDs from the console, so now any malfunction will be represented with a series of green lights.
To the right of the power circle is a spring-loaded door hiding two USB ports. Next to it is the controller sync button, which also doubles as the system's infrared (IR) port. Though there seemed to be some discussion as to whether this made it difficult for commands to be given to the Xbox 360, our tests with a Harmony remote show no sign of such issues.
For those hoping to ditch the enormous "power brick" that tethered the console to a power source, you're half in luck. The proprietary connection is definitely smaller, but there is still a power box you must deal with. Though it's about half the size of the original, we're much more comfortable downgrading the "brick" to a "block."
One drawback of the newly designed console is incompatibility with older Xbox 360 faceplates. We can't say that this customizable feature was one of the console's strong points, but nevertheless, no faceplates will work with the new Xbox 360.
Features
As mentioned above, the Xbox 360 Slim aims to correct some of the annoyances and complaints current Xbox 360 owners have voiced. The new console comes packed with a 250GB hard drive, built-in Wi-Fi that supports up to 802.11n, five USB ports, and one additional slot devoted to Microsoft Kinect.
The rear of the new Xbox 360 also looks a bit different compared with the original. Now onboard is a devoted digital optical audio-out port that can be used in conjunction with an HDMI, component, or composite video connection.
The console hides its 250GB hard drive under a door flap at the base of system. It comes in a black plastic enclosure that allows it to slide snugly into a receiving slot. Unfortunately this means it cannot be replaced with a third-party drive, so those wishing to do so will be stuck having to buy Xbox 360-branded internal storage.
We also noted a Kensington lock slot just below the power port on the rear of the console. Though minor, it's certainly a welcome addition to anyone who wants a little extra security.
We weren't really expecting it, but this new Xbox 360 Slim does not have any sort of Blu-ray capabilities, just the standard DVD playback it has always had.
What's included
In the box you'll find the Xbox 360 console, a black wireless controller, a black wired headset, two AA batteries, a power supply and cord, and a composite AV cable. Unfortunately, Microsoft has eliminated component cables as a standard add-in, so you won't be able to have an HD connection out of the box. Instead, you'll need to use either a separate HDMI cable or older Xbox 360 component wire for HD gaming.
It seems that the included headset has the updated in-line mute and volume toggle design found in some Xbox 360 Messenger Kits. We also noticed some minor updates to the wireless controller. The silver guide button is now mirrored chrome, and the Xbox 360 logo is embossed on the controller next to the sync button. Unfortunately, the wonky D-pad remains unchanged, our only gripe we wish Microsoft would have addressed on the otherwise near-perfect controller.
We should note that the included composite AV cable has a deliberate plastic protrusion that covers up the HDMI port when plugged in. Clearly Microsoft wants to prevent users from access to the port when using an AV slot connection.
Operation
One of the highlighted bullet points of the Xbox 360 unveiling at E3 2010 was "whisper-quiet" operation. Though "whisper" might be an exaggeration, the difference between the Xbox 360 Slim and older units is like night and day. When idle, the 360 is almost absolutely silent, and when running its disc drive, the console is barely noticeable with minimal volume. Obviously this is a huge improvement over older Xbox 360s and hopefully leads to fewer instances of system failures.
That said, we did notice the console heating up just after 10 minutes of game play. Thankfully, a perforated vent lays right above an exhaust fan, which appears attached to the system's GPU. We felt hot air coming from the vent and right side of the console when it was lying down horizontally.
Other than the noticeably quieter operation, we didn't see any other changes in how the Xbox 360 behaves.
Should I buy one?
As we mentioned at the start of this review, we don't think this new Xbox 360 Slim warrants a purchase if you have a working Xbox 360 with an HDMI-out port and hard drive. Sure, the possibility of an overheating "red ring of death" is always possible, but current Xbox 360 owners should not voluntarily upgrade, especially if their console is still under the three-year warranty specifically covering the red-ring issue.
Also, there are few details to keep in mind that may deter some from needlessly upgrading. First, you'll need to conduct a one-time data transfer, which requires a $15 cable. If only a small amount of data needs to be transferred, a USB stick might do the trick instead. Also, any downloadable content (DLC) that is stored on a pre-existing hard drive may require a license migration to a new console.
Of course we imagine retailers will offer enticing promotions on trade-ins of existing hardware for the new Slim console, so the choice to do so will ultimately be up to the individual. If you're desperate for Wi-Fi (and don't already have the USB adapter), are low on hard-drive space, or just want a quieter and more reliable Xbox 360 experience, the new Slim console from Microsoft is definitely the way to go.
User reviews
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This is the Xbox you've been waiting for.
by NerdJutsu on June 19, 2010
Pros: - Integrated Wifi
- Modern, Sleek shape form
- 250gb Hard Drive
- HD Netflix, Zune, ESPN
- Optical Audio, HDMICons: - DVD...
- RCA cables... C'MON it's 2010
- Fingerprint Magnet
- XBOX Live costs moneySummary: I've been a gamer since I first played Afterburner in my Sega Master System, I was 3 years old. Since then I've tried to own every console that ...
Summary: I've been a gamer since I first played Afterburner in my Sega Master System, I was 3 years old. Since then I've tried to own every console that comes out and that make sense to buy.
The Xbox 360 was not a console that made sense buying up until this model. Not having integrated WiFi up until 2010 is a big drawback, owning a Wii and a PS3 I wasn't willing to drag an ethernet cable all through my living room just to play on the Xbox. To my surprise the WiFi is also really fast compared to the PS3s (specially when downloading updates). 250GB Hard Drive should cover all my media needs, even though I have a 2TB HTPC right next to it and making the Hard Drive propietary, is still a ripoff. As other reviews have said, the console is very quiet, sleek and has great power savings.
The Dashboard experience feels like a perfect balance between the Wii's childish approach and the PS3's Manly-Glossy approach. I own a Roku, HTPC, Wii and a PS3, I've tried the Netflix experience through all of them and the Xbox 360 solution is the best one. It was the fastest, sleekest and with WiFi 802.11n you will be able to watch all your videos in pure (erm, compressed, streamed) HD. I'm really looking forward to watch ESPN videos as well.
Even though I will pay for Xbox live, I'm not sure if it's something we "should" be paying for. I'm all for having a premium model but don't limit a game's capabilities just because of that. Having to pay full price for the games, paying for your console and paying for my internet connection should be more than enough for me to be able to play multiplayer games. You are hosting the games on my console anyways.
All being said and done, if you have been waiting for the right time to buy an Xbox, this is it. If you own a PS3 you might still not see the point, personally the only games I got were Gears of War 1 and 2 and I'm not sure I want anything else for now. If you already own an Xbox, I say pick this one up when yours RROD' again :P
Cheers!16 out of 24 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great upgrade, but not perfect
by localyocal on June 21, 2010
Pros: The difference in noise and heat alone are worth the upgrade. The 250GB hard drive is also nice (I had the original 20GB version of the first 360).
Cons: No HD connectivity (READ HDMI or HD component cable) out of the box is ridiculous. There is no WOW factor. You think to yourself, "I just spent how much for the exact same functionality?" Granted the Kinect compatibility will be a future benefit...
Summary: Overall, a good buy especially if you can get the trade-in specials offered by several retailers currently. I paid less than $125 for mine by trading in a controller, original ...
Summary: Overall, a good buy especially if you can get the trade-in specials offered by several retailers currently. I paid less than $125 for mine by trading in a controller, original XBox 360, Hard Drive, and Wireless Adapter. I'm assuming that the kit for Kinect compatibility would be at least half of that. Here's hoping to no hardware issues!! (*cough, cough* right...)
8 out of 11 users found this user opinion helpful.
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It's Taken 5 Years, But the "True" 360 Is Here
by Hellrazr360 on May 20, 2011
Pros: Given a sleek and light facelift, more USB slots is welcome, far quieter than previous models, plenty of storage on the included hard drive, built-in wi-fi.
Cons: Prone to having fingerprints and smudges show, doesn't come with HD cables, disc tray looks cheap and obsolete, older hard drives aren't compatible, doesn't offer much that previous models didn't.
Summary: The Xbox 360 has had a run not too different from what a heavy metal band goes through when they become more mainstream with each subsequent album release (see Amorphis, ...
Summary: The Xbox 360 has had a run not too different from what a heavy metal band goes through when they become more mainstream with each subsequent album release (see Amorphis, In Flames, etc.). It's a given that the 360 will continue to have the largest (and arguably best) game library of this current generation. But much like the PS2 before it, the 360 has been frequently reported for having a lack of reliability (so much so that Microsoft extended the warranty before addressing the issues themselves). Having stuck with the system since the year of its launch and having gone through five prior to purchasing a Slim, I think it's clear my experience hasn't been entirely optimistic.
But now Microsoft have given us a slim design of the 360 much like the PS2 and PS3 (shrinking the included power brick, but not eliminating it). The appearance change is welcome, with one of the notable differences being that the hard drive is now placed inside the system itself (as a result, the previous version of hard drives aren't compatible with the 360 Slim). You can still try to transfer content with aftermarket cables, but there's also the option to take your content off Xbox Live itself.
Outside of aesthetic differences, the Xbox 360 Slim doesn't offer much that previous versions didn't. The included hard drive holds 250GB, the fan is significantly quieter than before and buttons are now touch-activated. A couple of the few changes made that are more notable is a more convenient support for Kinect out of the box (which I haven't tried) and the inclusion of a built-in wi-fi adapter. Other than these relatively minor changes, this is still fundamentally the same Xbox 360 you know. One of the few downsides to this updated version of the console is that HD cables aren't included (just the regular yellow/white/red outlets), despite the much-emphasized and marketed promise of HD and a built-in HDMI outlet.
With all this in-mind, those who haven't made the shift to the current generation of videogame consoles are the most encouraged to purchase an Xbox 360. If you happen to be among the few like me who have had the regular Xbox 360 up to this point and were stuck with the original 20GB hard drive, then a purchase of the 360 Slim might be easier to swallow than others. Either way, this is more or less an updated and seemingly more reliable version of the 360. The price for the 250GB version is reasonable and what's included is, for the most part, ideal and welcome.4 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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scratches disks if freezes and leaves spinning when off
by ps3veteran on December 8, 2010
Pros: good graphics has WiFi can connect with the kinect
Cons: scratches game disks and if frozen and if turned off sometimes leaves the games spinning inside of the console DO NOT UNPLUG FROM POWER BOX IF FROZEN
Summary: A mediocre advancement from the regular 360
Summary: A mediocre advancement from the regular 360
4 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Good console, makes up for faults on previous models.
by SmokeyD155 on July 26, 2011
Pros: Wireless technology,touch buttons,New sleek design, better coolers and overall slimmed down in size.
Cons: Touch buttons are too sensitive.
Summary: A very good finished product by microsoft, makes up for faults on previous models.
Summary: A very good finished product by microsoft, makes up for faults on previous models.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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My Honest Opinion
by TheRelativeUnknown on April 25, 2011
Pros: Ports look better on the 360 than on the PS3. Welcome features. Design upgrade.
Cons: A bit slower, Live too expensive. etc
Summary: I've owned both the PS3 and the 360, the original and the slim on both systems. So if your here looking for which to go with, here is my ...
Summary: I've owned both the PS3 and the 360, the original and the slim on both systems. So if your here looking for which to go with, here is my honest opinion. If your a hardcore gamer looking for strictly a video game system, I recommend the xbox 360. Games look slightly better on it than the PS3 and the game library is excellent. With the additions of Wifi and HDMI ports, its comfortable controllers and xbox Live feature, it really is the best gaming console in the market.
On the other hand, if your looking for an entertainment system, the PS3 is the best choice and the best value you'll find anywhere. I personally watch Netflix a lot. On the 360, you have to be a Gold Member($59.99) to be able to use Netflix. And one you do pay for it, the loading times are slower and the navigation menu isnt as intuitive nor convinient. On the PS3, The PSN(play station network) is free. So I can stream my Netflix shows and movies without the extra cost of a subscription. Playing games online on the PS3 is just as smooth as it is on the 360. The extra cost is not warranted. And finally, one thing I've learned recently, is that Microsoft will abandon its old products once a new one comes in. So if you have an older 360, you have to upgrade to the new one inorder to get all the new accesories(hard drive, kinect) and software upgrades. Sony is still supporting its ps2, and ps3 first gen systems to this day. I owned an xbox and bought a 360 first, so no bias here. For the same price, the ps3 gives you much better value than the 360 does. You'll end up having to pay for things you didnt expect to pay for on the 360.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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GOOD SYSTEM...THE 2ND TIME AROUND
by mpd262 on October 13, 2010
Pros: -quiet
-built in wifi
-250GB memoryCons: -doesn't come with HD hookup
-only one controller and no game
-questionable quality controlSummary: First unit purchased came with A BROKEN HARD DRIVE. Called xbox support and they arranged for a replacement hard drive - in 10 BUSINESS DAYS!!!. For my trouble, the lease ...
Summary: First unit purchased came with A BROKEN HARD DRIVE. Called xbox support and they arranged for a replacement hard drive - in 10 BUSINESS DAYS!!!. For my trouble, the lease they could do is FedEx a replacement. I ended up just taking the unit back to the store for a replacement. New unit works great - easy to hook up to internet. Unfortunately, with my luck so far, I'm keeping the number to xbox support handy...
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Everything was great but WIFI was a disaster!
by markbillybob on July 17, 2010
Pros: Runs extremely cool and low noise
Cons: I had a major problem that basically meant that I could not connect to My WIFI
I have found more on the Issue here
http://gamerworld.my1.ru/blog/wifi_issues_for_new_xbox360_slim/2010-07-16-252 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Played it for 2 weeks then E 64
by pwoo10 on November 21, 2010
Pros: Halo Reach Edition nice color
Cons: Con's are you kidding me 2 weeks and the thing was just as much junk as the other Halo Edition I bought 3 years ago and It was in and out of the shop and is currently a Hunter Green book end.
Summary: I'm done I will NEVER buy another Xbox, my PS2 and PS3 both are working and working well with no issues. Microsoft has had years to get this right ...
Summary: I'm done I will NEVER buy another Xbox, my PS2 and PS3 both are working and working well with no issues. Microsoft has had years to get this right and still can't get it. With every Xbox 360 should come a bottle of pain reliever for the headaches you have when you have to call the help desk and stay on the phone with them for an hour while they make it feel like it is your fault because they are in total denial that their product is JUNK
3 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Quiet please, I can't he if it's ON!
by hyghwayman on January 2, 2011
Pros: It's Quiet
HDMI and Optical Audio are seperate, no more dongle.
250gb Hard Drive
Integrated WifiCons: I don't have anything bad to say about this aewsome machine!
2 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Microsoft
- Part number: RKH-00001
- Description: The new Xbox 360. Here today, ready for tomorrow with a brand new, leaner machine in an all new black gloss finish. Wi-Fi is built-in for easier connection to the world of entertainment on Xbox LIVE, where HD movies and TV stream in an instant. It's ready for the controller-free experiences of Kinect - you don't just play the game, you are the game. With the huge hard drive you'll have plenty of space to store your favorite games and movies. Xbox 360 is more games, entertainment, and fun.
General
- Type Game console
- Internal Memory 250 GB HDD
- Media Type DVD
- Sound 5.1 channel surround
- Network Fast Ethernet,
802.11b/g/n - Width 12 in
- Depth 11.5 in
- Height 7.2 in
- Weight 10.9 lbs
- Color Glossy black
Game Controller
- Type Xbox 360 Wireless Controller - Wireless
- Controls X button,
Y button,
Left bumper,
Dual analog sticks,
Left trigger,
Right bumper,
Guide button,
A button,
Back button,
Start button,
B button,
D-pad,
Right trigger Video Output
- TV Connection Component video,
HDMI,
Composite video - Max Resolution (external) 1920 x 1080
Connections
- Connector Type 1 x AV cable port,
5 x USB 2.0 ( 4 pin USB Type A ),
1 x Kinect port,
1 x HDMI output ( 19 pin HDMI Type A ),
1 x SPDIF output ( TOSLINK ),
1 x Ethernet ( RJ-45 ) Power
- Power Consumption Operational 135 Watt
Miscellaneous
- Features Kinect ready
- Included Accessories Xbox Live headset,
Composite AV cable,
AC power adapter
Product series
-
Manufacturer: Microsoft
Specs: Microsoft Xbox 360 S - Game console,
DVD,
Glossy black,
1920 x 1080 -
Manufacturer: Microsoft
Specs: Microsoft Xbox 360 S - Game console,
DVD,
512 MB,
Matte black,
1920 x 1080 -
Microsoft Xbox 360 S (250GB) Halo: Reach Limited Edition
Manufacturer: Microsoft
Specs: Microsoft Xbox 360 Limited Edition Halo: Reach Bundle - Game console,
DVD,
Glossy black,
1920 x 1080 -
Microsoft Xbox 360 S (4GB) with Kinect Bundle
Manufacturer: Microsoft
Specs: Microsoft Xbox 360 S - Game console,
DVD,
Matte black,
1920 x 1080 -
Microsoft Xbox 360 S (250GB) with Kinect Bundle
Manufacturer: Microsoft
Specs: Microsoft Xbox 360 250 GB S Console - Game console,
DVD,
Glossy black,
1920 x 1080 -
Microsoft Xbox 360 S (250GB) Holiday Bundle (Forza 3 & Alan Wake)
Manufacturer: Microsoft
Specs: Microsoft Xbox 360 S - Game console,
DVD,
Glossy black,
1920 x 1080
Accessories
- Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller (31520707)14.99 - 28.99
- Cyborg F.L.Y. 9 Wireless Flight Stick - joystick - wireless (34359860)80.00 - 159.96
- HORI Real Arcade PRO.EX - game pad - wired (34571246)231.92
- Mad Catz Call of Duty : Black Ops PrecisionAIM Controller - game pad - wired (34206353)42.99
- Mad Catz Cleveland Browns GamePad Pro - game pad - wired (32797474)34.02
- Mad Catz Street Fighter IV FightPad Blanka - game pad - wired (33892059)69.99
- Mad Catz Street Fighter IV FightStick Tournament Edition - game pad - wired (33785831)339.99
- Mad Catz Street Fighter IV Round 2 FightStick Tournament Edition - game pad - wired (34095690)249.99
- Mad Catz Wireless Racing Wheel - wheel - wireless (34820486)159.99 - 169.99
- Mad Catz Xbox 360 GamePad game pad - wired (31894749)
- Game Elements Yamaha Motorsport Controller - bike simulator device (31271632)49.95
- Tritton AX 180 - headset (34042986)57.41 - 129.19
- Turtle Beach Ear Force PX21 - headset (34833118)69.99
- PDP CABLE EXTENSION for KINECT - game controller extension cable - 10 ft (34661352)0.01 - 49.99
- Razer Onza Tournament Edition Battlefield 3 - game pad - wired (35100754)49.87
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Microsoft products on Shopper.com
-
- Manufacturer:Microsoft
- Address:
One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA 98052 - Phone: 1-425-882-8080
- Fax: 1-425-706-7329
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