Xbox 360 SlimOn June 14, 2010 Microsoft during a pre-E3 press briefing announced a new version of the Xbox 360. This version would be a slimmer, black console that ran much cooler than before. This console became internally known at Microsoft as the Xbox 360 S. The media decided to call it the Xbox 360 Slim. Slim might actually be a poor name choice as this Xbox 360 isn’t much slimmer than the previous models, however it is shorter length wise.

The Xbox 360 S features a redesigned motherboard codenamed Valhalla. This motherboard allows for 30% more space than previous 360 motherboards and an integrated CPU/GPU/eDRAM chip that uses a 45 nm fabrication process. This means that by combining the CPU/GPU/eDRAM into one chip, the motherboard can be smaller and run cooler, which allows for a quieter experience and should eliminate any red ring of death issues.

The new Xbox 360 S also features 5 USB ports, which is 2 more than previous models and a custom port used for the Kintect sensor. It also comes with built in Wireless 802.11 b/g/n wifi and a TOSLINK S/PDIF optical audio connector, which previous models didn’t have built in. Memory card slots also have been removed and it’s now required that USB drives be used for saving games or profiles. The DVD eject and power buttons are both touch sensitive. The hard drive is also internal now instead of external. The new hard drive required on the Xbox 360 S is proprietary to the 360 S and cannot be used with previous models.

Other changes include one rear fan instead of two, allowing for quieter operation. Gone are the Core, Arcade, Pro, Elite names. The naming convention is now determined by the size (i.e. Xbox 360 4GB or Xbox 360 250GB).

Xbox 360 S 250GB

The Xbox 360 S 250GB and 4GB models are very similar and include all the stuff listed above. However, there are some minor differences:

  • 250GB Internal Hard drive
  • Glossy Black Case
  • 1 Wireless Black Controller

Xbox 360 S 4GB

  • Black Matte Case
  • 4GB internal flash storage
  • 1 Wired Black Controller