Reports coming in from PS5 hands-on impressions and Xbox Series X/S preview sessions have indicated that both consoles should run much quieter than their current-gen counterparts, but Microsoft's device may run hotter. Critics around the world are beginning to get first-looks at the next-gen consoles in the build-up to their November launches, with a PS5 preview session in Japan ramping up hype for Sony's console thanks to many journalists praising its cooling systems and system noise levels, which is a notable feat given how loud the PS4 runs currently.
With so little time before the PS5 release date and Xbox Series X/S launch, there's been a distinct increase in impressions, information dumps, and more coming from both console manufacturers. In the case of Sony, that's mostly been related to the PS5's hardware specs - reports recently suggested that the console might have significantly less SSD space than advertised when put into practice thanks to a hefty OS, while leaks of the PS5 startup process also seem to have emerged. For Microsoft, the Xbox Series X/S has endured a tumultuous period of ups and downs, with its initial reveal and promise marred somewhat by the Halo Infinite delay and its confusing naming convention.
Now, Xbox Series X buyers may want to pay attention to another emerging story from preview sessions. According to a report from VGC that collects a few instances of Xbox Series X impressions, hands-on users have found that the console runs hot, with Jeux Video's Ken Bogard stating that the console emits a lot of heat in a Twitch video transcribed by VGC that has since been taken down. On an episode of Giant Bomb's BeastCast, Jeff Bakalar also notes that the Xbox Series X runs hot, although his analysis comes with a measured caveat from the discussion team: it's a preview model, which means it's not necessarily reflective of how retail versions will run.
Many of the Xbox Series X preview sessions that were conducted over the past week have mentioned its cooling system as a strength, noting that the console runs extremely quiet. That's consistent with how the PS5 is described as well, but it seems Xbox Series X might actually run even quieter than the already impressive Sony console. That's obviously a big selling point for most home entertainment set-ups, but if Xbox Series X also runs noticeably hot, it could mean working around its ventilation somewhat to ensure it remains in great condition.
Again, though, these impressions are based on preview consoles that don't necessarily reflect exactly what the consumer experience will be like when Xbox Series X releases in November. It is, however, something to monitor for fans keeping a close eye on how each console is shaping up - and will no doubt be a talking point when both PS5 and Xbox Series X launch.
Xbox Series X/S releases on November 10, 2020. PS5 releases on November 12, 2020.
Source: VGC