We know that the Xbox Series X will be a tall but reasonably slim machine, and we know that the Xbox Series S is about 60% smaller than its more powerful sibling. But what do these two really mean?

Tech YouTuber Unbox Therapy got his hands on dummy units of both machines and compared them side-by-side; we've seen how the two consoles stack up in the rendered images, but this real-life image shows just how small the Xbox Series S is.

Not only is it noticeably shorter than the Xbox Series X, but the Xbox Series S is much slimmer. Compared to the Series X, which looks more like a compact PC than a gaming console, it looks more like a more traditional box that sits under a TV.

In person, or in plastic, the Xbox Series S looks like an evolution of the Xbox One S. However, many have noted that it looks a bit like a bookshelf speaker or that the circular black vents look a bit like a front-loading washing machine. However, we think it looks rather neat, not only because it is quite compact, but also because it has the pleasant minimalist design found in Microsoft's Surface series (the latest model is the Surface Duo).

Despite its slim size, the Xbox Series S targets games at 1440p and 60fps, with some titles going up to 120fps. The native 4K Xbox Series X has the advantage, but will cost $499 compared to the Xbox Series S's $299 when it launches on November 10.

The Xbox Series S looks huge in comparison, but its minimalist monolithic aesthetic is also pleasing to the eye in its own way if you like simple designs. And for those who prefer to keep their consoles out of sight, the Xbox Series X appears to fit neatly behind a TV rather than requiring a shelf for an entertainment unit.

Furthermore, other videos comparing the Xbox Series X dummy unit to other game consoles show that Microsoft's flagship gaming console does not look that big. Indeed, it appears to be more compact and sleeker than the original Xbox One, which looks exactly like a VCR.

For a visually striking next-generation console, one only has to look at Sony's PS5. The design, which combines sharp edges with a curvy two-tone body, has divided opinion in Tom's Guide. But with the promise of a suite of exclusive games and 4K power, the PS5 will have plenty of appeal, even if it's tucked away in an entertainment center.