You probably know, as well as almost every other person on earth, that Black Friday is peeking over the horizon as we speak. This means deals and discounts on all manner of goods. Including the Xbox Series X... maybe.

If there actually are some Series X consoles on the shelves, is it worth buying one on Black Friday 2021? Let's find out.

One Small Thing...

Before we delve into whether it is worth buying Microsoft's latest console, there is one minor issue we need to address; the ongoing console shortage.

Xbox Series X has been almost impossible to get hold of since it launched 12 months ago—much like a lot of other devices, not just consoles. A component shortage that has been inexistence since prior to the console's launch, left stock at an all-time low even before the Series X was released.

So, with this console shortage in mind, please don't get your hopes up too high when considering whether to buy an Xbox Series X or S on Black Friday.

Is It Worth Buying an Xbox Series X on Black Friday?

Xbox Series X with an Xbox controller

In one word; yes. If you want to join Microsoft's console ecosystem, then it is definitely worth buying a Series X on Black Friday. The console has a lot going for it and represents excellent value for money. Better value, some argue, than the PS5.

The Series X certainly matches up to the PS5's specs, but the whole Xbox experience is excellent, too. Obviously, you have the gaming aspect. This writer might show bias here, but it is worth owning a Series X just to enjoy Bethesda's future releases. But aside from that incredibly specific point, owning an Xbox will bring some exceptional titles into your collection, with Xbox exclusives forming part of that.

Because it is compatible with a wide range of apps on the Microsoft store, the Series X offers an excellent experience outside of gaming. Can you get SoundCloud on a PS5, for one of many examples? No, you can't (yawn). But you can on a Series X! It is touches like that which make it a great console to own.

The point we're making here is it makes a great multifunctional device aside from video games. You can even browse the internet with it. PS5 doesn't even have a native browser. Sony's flagship isn't coming off so great here, is it?

Should You Consider a Series S, Instead?

Don't forget, the Series X isn't the only Xbox console doing the rounds right now. The Series S is also a very viable option. Sure, it doesn't play physical games, but do you really need them? If you're eager to just hop on Microsoft's bandwagon, the Series S should be a consideration.

With the likes of Game Pass Ultimate powering your digital system, you can access hundreds of games. These include new game and titles from previous console generations. At $200 less than the Series X, you're already onto a winner if your games collection is digital.

OK, so it doesn't have the 4K chops of its bigger sibling, but you'll still be hammering Fallout 5 whenever that arrives, unlike PS5 owners. The Series S is generally more available in stock, too...

Where Can You Get an Xbox Series X on Black Friday?

The question is more whether you'll get one at all, hence the Series S shout out, above. But the usual suspects apply, here:

If you want to be in with a chance of grabbing a Series X or Series S, then these retailers are likely to be your best bet.

We Hope You Get Your Series X

Best of luck with finding a console this Black Friday. It'll be a needle in a haystack affair, so hopefully our readers are lucky enough to grab one for themselves. Don't forget, you shouldn't rule out the Series S; it is a great little console! If Xbox isn't your cup of tea, you could always enter the fray for a PS5...