I've had a Series X for nearly a month now, thoughts below. Until now I've been exclusively a PlayStation person, including the PS5. I caved and got the X as the All Access deal became available at our local Smyths and I really wanted to play the new Flight Sim game.
Packaging: The packaging and unboxing of the X is really nice, it's well protected but there's a well designed opening to it which makes it a bit of an event. The PS5 packaging was basic and used dull functional cardboard by comparison.
Console: The Series X looks great in my living room, stood up near the TV. I like the PS5 style, and the white has grown on me, but with a Series X nearby the PS5 does look a bit daft. It's like the PS5 is trying too hard to prove it's next-gen whereas the Xbox is happy just to get on with things in the background. The X is also quieter for me so far. They're both very quiet overall (compared to a PS4 Pro) but in quieter game moments i've occasional heard the PS5 but haven't had a peep from the X. If anything I've found the PS5 marginally more responsive and the load times slightly swifter but i suspect that's largely due to me playing more next-gen titles on that so far where they've optimised things better.
Interface: The PS5 front end is definitely better looking as it's all in 4k HDR. I'm used to more of the Sony way if doing things so it's been an easy adjustment to the PS5 UI. The Xbox UI is decent but lacks a bit of shine. You can see the PC heritage to it by the way some of the menus work but overall I've found it easy to get used to and use, and have found everything i've needed so far without needing a manual or Google.
Controller: Having never really used the Xbox controller we've all found it immediately comfortable. There's enough similarity with the PS controller for it to feel familiar. The PS5 Dualsense definitely feels like a more premium product compared to the Xbox controller. Haptics aside, the buttons on the Dualsense have a better press and the triggers are more responsive and tactile to use. Can't believe the Xbox controller still needs AA batteries!
Gamepass: It's great isn't it. As part of the All Access deal you get Ultimate for 2 years. The PS+ subscription is cheaper and the monthly games are often decent but it's nowhere near as comprehensive as the Xbox offering even accounting for the price difference. With Flight Sim, FH5 and a few of the other exclusive games coming out it'll pay for itself really - and i'm not really bothered by some of the exclusives like Gears but can try them out without any extra cost if I like. I can't see myself actually having to buy a game for the next year or so - perhaps some add-ons for the ones on Gamepass but that's it.
Overall I've been impressed with the Series X. I can't wait for Flight Sim to come out later this month at which point I suspect it'll be my console of choice for a few months. I'm looking forward to FH5, having never played a Forza game i've really enjoyed FH4 so far. It's a refreshing change from Gran Turismo, even if i will definitely get that for PS5 when it finally arrives. I think for things like GTA I'll still go with the PS5 unless there is a big reason to go with the Xbox. The only downside is that my son can now play Minecraft with all his mates across PS and Xbox, luckily it's on Gamepass so i've not had to buy it a 3rd time...
I'm really enjoying games again at the moment, Gamepass and the variety it offers, really helps with that. We're lucky to have two great options for consoles at the moment and from my, admittedly privileged, position of getting hold of both I don't think you'll go far wrong with either this generation.
