How To Improve Xbox Series S Performance

How To Improve Xbox Series S Performance

Whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive player, getting the most out of your Xbox Series S can make a big difference in your gaming experience. Below we show you the most effective ways to boost performance, free up storage, and enjoy smoother gameplay without spending a fortune.

The Best Settings for Faster Load Times

Microsoft’s console is designed to run games at 1440p with up to 120 fps, but a few tweaks in the system settings can shave seconds off load times and improve overall responsiveness.

1. Enable Quick Resume and Auto HDR

Quick Resume lets you jump between multiple games instantly, while Auto HDR enhances visual quality without a performance hit. To turn these on:

1. Press the Xbox button to open the guide.
2. Navigate to Profile & system > Settings > General > Power mode & startup.
3. Select Power mode and choose Instant-on for Quick Resume.
4. Go back to General > Video output and toggle Auto HDR to On.

2. Adjust Video Output Resolution

If you’re using a 1080p TV, setting the console to 1080p can reduce the workload on the GPU, leading to higher frame rates in many titles. Go to Settings > General > TV & display options and select 1080p as the resolution.

3. Turn Off Background Apps

Background apps such as Spotify or the Xbox app can consume RAM and CPU cycles. Press the Xbox button, highlight the app, press the Menu button, and select Quit. You can also disable automatic updates for apps you don’t use often under Settings > System > Updates.

Top Tips, Tricks and Features Every Xbox Series S Owner Should Use

• Use the Storage Expansion Card. The official 1 TB or 2 TB expansion cards slot directly into the console, offering faster read/write speeds than external USB drives. If you’re tired of deleting games because you ran out of storage, get 1 TB Storage for cheap: https://amzn.to/435FL7P or consider a 2 TB option for future‑proofing.
• Clear the Cache Regularly. A simple power cycle (hold the Xbox button for 10 seconds, then restart) clears the system cache and can resolve occasional lag spikes.
• Prioritise Game Installation on the Internal SSD. The internal SSD is the fastest storage medium on the Series S. Install your most played titles there for quicker load times.
• Enable Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). If your TV supports VRR, enable it under Settings > General >