I own both and like both alot. The trigger on the Shield is one it the best for a polymere frame pistol and has a fast reset. Both are very similar in size, if you set them on a table a few inches apart you couldn't tell a difference. The shield has a safety which I dislike but have got use to it. But like Scuba the XDS goes where I go. It shoots amazing, feels good and it's a .45. I didn't like the aggressive grip at first but after shooting it I fell in love with it. Also the recoil is not near as bad as you would think because if it's size.