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USB-C and Wi-Fi 6 are two features where the PlayStation 5 outperforms the Xbox Series X

The Xbox Series X has a more powerful processor and graphics chip than the PS5, but it seems to have economised a little on USB and Wi-Fi. (Image: Microsoft)
The Xbox Series X has a more powerful processor and graphics chip than the PS5, but it seems to have economised a little on USB and Wi-Fi. (Image: Microsoft)
Microsoft has released full specifications for the Xbox Series X and Series S, confirming that the Sony PlayStation 5 is better equipped with USB-C and Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) connectivity, while the more powerful competitor on this important front appears to have cut corners.

The official Microsoft website has been redesigned to promote the Xbox Series X and Series S in detail. Microsoft also lists the complete technical specifications, and there are two surprises: The console has "only" dual-band Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and the three existing USB ports are of the older Type A, the speed is limited to 5 Gbps, or about 625 MB/s, by the USB 3.1 Gen 1 standard.

The Sony PlayStation 5, on the other hand, will be equipped with Wi-Fi 6, which will not only increase the theoretical maximum speed from 6.9 to 9.6 Gbps, but could also enable a much more stable connection with lower latencies, especially in environments with many different networks - an important criterion in heated multiplayer battles.

The Bluetooth chip is also slightly more modern, as the PS5 supports Bluetooth 5.1 instead of just 5.0 on the next generation Xbox. Much more exciting, however, is that the PlayStation 5 will offer at least a USB-C port, as the photo of the console embedded below shows - further ports could be on the back, which Sony has not shown so far. 

While the exact specifications of the port are not yet known, Sony will probably at least support USB 3.2 Gen 2 for data transfers at a maximum speed of 10 Gbit/s (approx. 1,250 MB/s). At least as important: USB-C can transfer much more power, so the DualSense controller may be able to be charged very quickly.

Next-generation consoles could be on the market for seven or eight years, so it's a pity that Microsoft has cut back on this front. However, at least until many customers have a Wi-Fi 6 router, the differences in practice are unlikely to be noticeable - the Xbox One controller is powered by AA batteries instead of a rechargeable battery anyway, so the older USB ports are unlikely to be a problem for most users.

The front of the PlayStation 5 already features a USB-C connection, while the Xbox Series X is exclusively USB-A. (Image: Sony)
The front of the PlayStation 5 already features a USB-C connection, while the Xbox Series X is exclusively USB-A. (Image: Sony)

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > USB-C and Wi-Fi 6 are two features where the PlayStation 5 outperforms the Xbox Series X
Hannes Brecher, 2020-09-16 (Update: 2020-09-16)