Amstrad GX4000 vs Microsoft Xbox Series X S

The Amstrad GX4000 was a short-lived console released in the early 1990s, while the Microsoft Xbox Series X S is a modern powerhouse with cutting-edge technology. The two consoles represent different eras of gaming, with the GX4000 being a nostalgic relic and the Series X S being a top-of-the-line gaming machine.

General information

Amstrad GX4000
Microsoft Xbox Series X S
Introduction :
The Amstrad GX4000 was released in 1990 as a follow-up to the unsuccessful Amstrad CPC Plus series. Despite its short lifespan and limited game library, the console has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. It was primarily marketed in Europe and featured enhanced graphics compared to its predecessor. While not as popular as other consoles of its time, the Amstrad GX4000 is considered a classic and collectible item for retro gaming collectors.
Introduction :
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S is the latest addition to the Xbox family, released in 2020. It boasts powerful hardware for smooth gameplay and fast loading times. With its sleek design and impressive graphics capabilities, the Series X S is a popular choice among gamers worldwide. It offers a wide range of exclusive titles and backward compatibility with previous Xbox games, making it a versatile and highly sought-after gaming console.
Advantages :
  • The Amstrad GX4000 offers a unique retro gaming experience.
  • It has a diverse library of classic games to enjoy.
  • The console is compact and easy to set up.
  • It provides a nostalgic feel for gamers who grew up with it.
  • The GX4000 is a budget-friendly option for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Advantages :
  • Faster loading times for games, enhancing overall gaming experience.
  • Improved graphics and performance for more immersive gameplay.
  • Backward compatibility with previous Xbox games, expanding game library.
  • Quick Resume feature allows for seamless switching between multiple games.
  • Xbox Game Pass subscription service offers a vast library of games.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to other consoles of the time.
  • Lack of third-party developer support for new games.
  • Poor graphics and sound quality compared to competitors.
  • Fragile and prone to hardware malfunctions.
  • Limited controller options and accessories available.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited exclusive game titles available at launch.
  • Higher price point compared to previous generation consoles.
  • Potential compatibility issues with older games.
  • Larger physical size may not fit in all entertainment centers.
  • Limited availability and potential supply chain issues.
Year launched : 1990
The Amstrad GX4000 was launched in 1990, offering gamers a new console experience with its advanced graphics and gameplay capabilities compared to older systems.
Year launched : 2020
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S was launched in 2020, offering gamers powerful performance and next-gen features for an immersive gaming experience. It competes with other consoles in the market.
Manufacturer : Amstrad
The Amstrad GX4000 was manufactured by Amstrad, a British electronics company known for producing home computers and gaming consoles in the 1980s and 1990s. The GX4000 was their only foray into the gaming console market.
Manufacturer : Microsoft
The Xbox Series X S is manufactured by Microsoft, a leading technology company known for its gaming consoles and software. Microsoft has a strong presence in the gaming industry with its Xbox brand.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The Amstrad GX4000 had low popularity compared to other consoles. It sold poorly and had a small market share, leading to its discontinuation shortly after release.
🟡 Popularity : Average.
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S has seen moderate popularity among gamers, with solid sales figures and a loyal fan base. It holds a decent share of the market compared to its competitors.
Form factor : Home console.
The Amstrad GX4000 is designed as a home console, meant to be connected to a TV for gaming. It is not intended to be portable and is best enjoyed in a living room setting.
Form factor : Home console.
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S is designed as a home console, meant to be placed in a living room or entertainment center for gaming on a TV screen. It is not intended to be portable.
Official website : https://www.amstrad.com/


Market and availability

Amstrad GX4000
Microsoft Xbox Series X S
Console markets :
The Amstrad GX4000 was primarily available in Europe, with a focus on markets such as the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. It was not widely distributed in other regions.
Console markets :
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S is available in various markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and more. It is widely distributed through major retailers and online stores globally.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Amstrad GX4000 is now considered retro and collectible among gaming enthusiasts. Its limited release and unique library of games have increased its value in the market.
⚪ Collectible : Unknown.
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S is still a current-generation console, so its retro/collectible status is uncertain. However, with its advanced technology and popularity, it may become sought after in the future.
⚪ Console availability : Unknown.
The Amstrad GX4000 is a relatively rare console, with limited availability both new and secondhand. It may be challenging to find one for sale, especially in good condition.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S is moderately available in both new and secondhand markets. While it may require some effort to find, it is not overly scarce or abundant.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The Amstrad GX4000 is considered a low-cost console due to its limited availability and lack of popularity among collectors. It can often be found at affordable prices on the second-hand market.
🔴 Console cost : High.
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S is currently in high demand due to its advanced features and limited availability. It retains its value well in the second-hand market, making it a relatively costly option.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Amstrad GX4000 can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. Some titles may be harder to come by, but overall there is a decent selection available for collectors and enthusiasts.
🟢 Game availability : Good.
Games for the Microsoft Xbox Series X S are readily available both physically and digitally. The console has a strong library of current and upcoming titles, making it a great choice for gamers.
🟢 Game costs : Low.
Games for the Amstrad GX4000 are relatively inexpensive due to the console's limited popularity and availability. They can often be found at affordable prices on the second-hand market.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Microsoft Xbox Series X S is average. While new games may be priced similarly to other current-gen consoles, the availability of second-hand games can offer more affordable options.


Technology

Amstrad GX4000
Microsoft Xbox Series X S
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Amstrad GX4000 uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for gaming consoles in the late 1980s. This architecture allowed for simpler graphics and gameplay compared to newer consoles.
Architecture : 64-bit.
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S uses a 64-bit architecture, allowing for powerful performance and advanced capabilities in gaming. This architecture enables seamless gameplay and stunning graphics for an immersive gaming experience.
CPU : Zilog Z80
The Amstrad GX4000 uses a Zilog Z80 CPU, a popular choice for many gaming consoles and computers in the 1980s. It is known for its simplicity and efficiency in handling 8-bit tasks.
CPU : AMD Zen 2 CPU
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S is powered by a custom AMD Zen 2 CPU with 8 cores and 16 threads, providing high performance for gaming and multitasking capabilities.
Memory : 64 Kb
The Amstrad GX4000 has 64 Kb of memory, which was considered sufficient for gaming in the late 1980s when the console was released.
Memory : 1 TB
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S comes with 1 terabyte (TB) of storage capacity, allowing gamers to store a large number of games, apps, and media files on the console.
Video output : Composite
The Amstrad GX4000 has a composite video output connection, which can be used to connect to older TVs or with the use of a composite to HDMI converter for modern TVs.
Video output :
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The Amstrad GX4000's GPU information is not well-documented. Due to its release in the early 1990s, details about its dedicated GPU are scarce, making it difficult to determine its specific capabilities.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S is equipped with a dedicated GPU, offering impressive graphics performance and allowing for smooth gameplay experiences with high resolutions and frame rates.
🔴 Internet connected : No.
The Amstrad GX4000 is not internet connected. It does not have any notable details such as Ethernet or WiFi capabilities for online connectivity.
🟢 Internet connected : Yes.
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S is internet connected, featuring both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity options for online gaming, streaming, and downloading content. It also supports online multiplayer gaming.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Amstrad GX4000 is cartridge-based. Games are inserted into the console via cartridges, allowing for quick and easy gameplay without the need for additional accessories.
Game media format : Download.
The primary game format for the Microsoft Xbox Series X S is digital downloads. Players can purchase and download games directly from the Xbox store, eliminating the need for physical discs or cartridges.


Gaming

Amstrad GX4000
Microsoft Xbox Series X S
Controllers : 2 controllers / 2 players
The Amstrad GX4000 supports 2 controllers for 2 players, allowing for multiplayer gaming experiences on a single console. Players can enjoy competitive or cooperative gameplay together.
Controllers : 4 controllers
The Xbox Series X/S supports up to 4 controllers for local multiplayer gaming, allowing for a fun and engaging experience with friends and family on a single console.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Amstrad GX4000 did not have online multiplayer capabilities as it was released in the early 1990s before online gaming became mainstream. Local multiplayer with multiple controllers was the primary option.
🟢 Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S allows players to enjoy multiplayer online gaming, connecting with friends and other gamers worldwide for competitive and cooperative gameplay experiences.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Amstrad GX4000 were released in an average manner, with a decent selection available. However, due to its limited popularity, finding specific titles may require some effort in the secondhand market.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the Microsoft Xbox Series X S have been released consistently, with a strong library of both exclusive and third-party games. The console's backward compatibility also adds value to its game selection.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Amstrad GX4000 has notable exclusive games such as Burning Rubber, Switchblade, and Fire and Forget II, which are iconic titles for the console and offer unique gameplay experiences.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Microsoft Xbox Series X S has exclusive games such as Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, and Fable. These iconic titles are highly anticipated by fans and showcase the console's gaming capabilities.


When choosing between the Amstrad GX4000 and the Microsoft Xbox Series X S, it’s clear that the Series X S offers a far superior gaming experience with its advanced features and capabilities. While the GX4000 may hold sentimental value for some retro gamers, the Series X S is the obvious choice for those looking for the best in modern gaming technology.