What are the best gaming consoles out there right now? Is Nintendo a good choice for kids? Using a variety of consoles, we were able to answer all of these questions. However, we observed significant disparities in the machines themselves, despite the claim that a console is only as good as its games.
How the Test was Performed?
The tests are independent and they reflect honest opinions. Neither manufacturers, merchants, nor any internal or external parties have any say in the selection of products nor the outcomes of the tests conducted.
A gaming system is only as good as the titles it can play. And if you’re going to be playing with others online, it’s a waste of time if you don’t have the same machine. Even so, we’ve taken on the work of analyzing the many consoles that make up the amazing and extremely diversified world of video games.
The consoles we evaluate have been around for a long time, frequently since they were first launched, and our reviews are constantly updated. In addition, we’ve taken into consideration a few essential characteristics in our evaluation process.
- Range of games: Without fun games, a gaming console is a waste of space. Because of this, the selection of games available today and in the future is more critical than the hardware itself.
- Controls and Hardware: The most critical piece of equipment you’ll need is a high-quality game controller. But there may also be unique hardware features that set them apart from the others.
- Software and service: What are the costs of playing online? Purchase video games, make new gaming buddies, or sign up for a service? It’s critical that the console’s user interface be intuitive and simple to use. Makes it easier than ever to play games with a group of friends or ask others to join you.
- Media: You may now view movies on Blu-ray or through a variety of streaming services in addition to playing video games on a console. In our evaluation, we also take into account how they operate and what they can do for you.
To arrive at a final score, we considered the aforementioned aspects in relation to the console’s purchase price, as well as the cost of any additional accessories or subscription services.
If you are a fan of Apple Watches, our review of Apple Watch Series 5 will be a good read for you. Check it out.
Top 5 Gaming Consoles in the Market
1. Sony PlayStation 5
Rating: 9.8 out of 10
Specifications:
- Price class: Premium
- Product Type: Game console
- Dimensions: 390x160x104 mm
- Weight: 4.5 kg
- Processor: 3.5-GHz AMD Zen 2
- Graphics: AMD RDNA 2
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 1TB SSD
- Video: Games and videos at up to 8K resolution
- Optical drive: UHD Blu-ray
- Wireless communication: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax (Wi-Fi 6)
- Connections: HDMI out (HDMI 2.1), 3 USB (3.0)
- Accessories included: Controller, HDMI cable
Among 2020’s most anticipated and best gaming consoles was the PlayStation 5. Since the mid-nineties, Sony’s consoles have sold the most, and their fan following has been the largest. It wasn’t hard to figure this out. Sony, on the other hand, isn’t afraid to try new things, which might be good or terrible depending on your preferences.
Impossible Outside
To begin, let’s look at the most glaringly bad aspect. This year’s PlayStation 5 is a hulking abomination. In the 1995 science fiction film Johnny Mnemonic, the gaming system would have looked like this. When the console is lying flat, it resembles a massive white laptop whose battery has bloated and has cracked the whole chassis. When it’s upright, the closest similarity is to a router.
The shape also makes it difficult to place the console. A video game console has never been an issue when it comes to arranging it either vertically or horizontally. Because of its curvature, it is unattractive and unstable when placed on a flat surface. This is why the console comes with a little support to make it operate at all.
Even though it’s neither a great nor bad thing, the PlayStation 5 is a big device. As seen above, both the PlayStation 4 and Xbox Series X seem to be compact, tidy, and portable consoles in comparison. However, if you wish to install the console on your TV, like the current Xbox, the dimensions of the console should not pose an issue.
The Controller of the Future
Having stated that, let’s move on to the good aspects. The controller, alternatively known as DualSense, is the first thing we’ll look at. It looks as if you have taken the PlayStation 4 DualShock controller and put a white plastic item on it.
The motion sensor and touch pad are carried over from earlier generations of the controller. The new features include a built-in microphone and a considerably better vibration function with various different intensities that genuinely make a difference.
The key new item here are the adaptable shoulder buttons. As you go through the game, they can be “loose” as in earlier generations, providing greater resistance. We were doubtful at first, but after a short time of utilizing them, we’d venture to say this is the console’s genuine killer feature.
It is the Console for the Future
Everything you need today and in the future is supported by the console. Both new and old games load quickly, and we’re pleased with the performance of both new and old games. Even if the new visual elements aren’t fully used in the games, they still look great.
We recognise the interface from past PlayStation generations, but it has been given a makeover and a slew of additional minor functionalities to make everything seem new and fresh. As a way to show off all the new features, flex its muscles, and show off the controller’s capabilities, the game Astro’s PlayRoom is included in the boxed version. A super sweet platformer that serves you a lot of nostalgia while also showcasing some of the game’s new features.
There is a lot of power in the PS5’s engine that has yet to be unleashed for many years to come. While the console has a lot of power, it was quite quiet throughout our testing time. Future gaming will benefit greatly from the new controller’s features.
You can also check out our detailed review of PlayStation 5.
Pros
- The shoulder buttons are a godsend!
- Speedy loading of video games
- Pretty silent
Cons
- Ugly as a sin
- The launch had a relatively limited selection of games
2. Nintendo Switch – Portable Game Console
Rating: 8.6 out of 10
Specifications:
- Price class: Premium
- Product type: Game console
- Dimensions: 173x102x13.9 mm
- Weight: 297 g
- Processor: Nvidia Tegra X1
- Graphics: Maxwell-based
- RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4
- Storage: 32 GB built-in, micro SD card slot
- Video: 720p in portable mode, up to 1080p in docked mode
- Optical drive: No Wireless communication: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
- Connections, console: USB-C, headphone connectors, dock. HDMI out, 2 x USB (2.0), 1 x USB (3.0)
- Accessories included: Controller, dock, joy-con adapter
You don’t need the finest hardware to produce a fun gaming system, as Nintendo proves with the Nintendo Switch. It’s a great idea to combine desktop and portable gaming with a variety of innovative concepts.
Portable with Built-in Multiplayer
The Nintendo Switch might be a bit of a mystery to the uninitiated, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a breeze.
As a portable gaming device, it looks a lot like the Game Boy Advance, although it’s a little larger. The touchscreen display has a diagonal size of 6.2 inches. Because of this, you may not be able to put the Switch in your pocket when you’re out, but it is still quite portable.
Playing games that drain your battery might affect the amount of time it takes to recharge. The Nintendo Switch, which was introduced in 2017, has a play duration of 2.5-6 hours. This year, a new model, the HAC-001(-01), was produced with improved battery life that lasted between 4.5-9 hours. The Joy Cons, as the controller parts are often referred to, sit on each side of your screen. While you’re playing, you may either keep them linked to the console, or you can take them out and use them as independent controllers at any time. It is possible to tilt a stand recessed in the rear of the Nintendo Switch screen if you have them unfastened. Allows you to free up your hands by placing it on a table with a wobbling stand.
It’s possible to play with two controllers in each hand, similar to how Nintendo Wii controllers worked. Alternatively, you may combine the controllers into a single device using the little plastic adapter supplied in the package. In order to play with a friend without purchasing an additional controller, many games are built to work with only one controller, which is convenient.
As soon as you place the console in the dock, you must also remove the controllers from the console itself. Using this, you may play on a TV as if you were using a PC gaming console.
Lots of Clever Details
The Nintendo Switch, with a new edition, Lite version, and most recently an OLED screen has been introduced.
You may also use the controllers from your previous Gamecube using the adapter that’s included. You eventually have the ability to connect Bluetooth headphones to the console in 2022 thanks to the upgrade. Until recently, the only alternative was a cabled connection.
Also included in the Joy Con controllers are motion sensors similar to those seen in the Nintendo Wii’s controllers, along with a simpler camera and microphone.
Gets a Long Way on Meager Hardware
Nintendo’s own, 3rd-party, and indie/retro titles all have a place on the Nintendo Switch. As expected, Nintendo’s own games are of the highest quality and perform well on the current generation of mobile devices – in this case, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor.
It’s no secret that retro and indie games have done very well on the Nintendo Switch. In fact, independent titles are often launched simultaneously for PC and Nintendo Switch, but not for Xbox One or PlayStation 4.
Classic video games are also enjoyable. If you’re looking to play some of your favorite NES and SNES games, Nintendo has come up with an affordable subscription service. This service had been expanded to include Sega Mega Drive and Nintendo 64 titles, making it a veritable treasure trove for retro gamers. In addition, the online store offers a diverse selection of classic and contemporary video games.
Unfortunately, the vast majority of third-party games are brand-new titles. For those who have never played the games before, this is a great opportunity. However, most titles for the Nintendo Switch are available at discount, but those for other systems must be paid full price. At the same time, they resemble some kind of technological demonstration. Just to show off that we can get this game to work on a Switch.
Despite the minimal hardware it has, the Nintendo Switch has shown to be a versatile gaming platform capable of delivering engaging single-player experiences and exhilarating multiplayer action.
Pros
- A system with incredible adaptability
- Two controllers are included.
- Some fantastic games to play.
Cons
- Battery life is a little short.
- Minimal hardware
3. Microsoft Xbox Series S
Rating: 9.6 out of 10
Specifications:
- Product Type: Game console
- Dimensions: 275x151x63.5 mm
- Weight: 1.93 g
- Processor: AMD Zen 2, 8 core, 3.6 GHz
- Graphics: AMD Radeon RDNA, 4 TFLOPS
- Memory: 4 GB LPDDR4
- Storage: 512 GB built-in, proprietary memory expansion up to 2 TB
- Video: Games in 1440p, video in 4K
- Optical unit: No
- Wireless communication: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
- Connections: HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, 3x USB-A 3.2
- Accessories included: HDMI cable, manual controller
As the tiniest of the next-generation consoles, the Xbox Series S stands out. Microsoft’s Xbox Series S, in contrast to Sony’s two identical Playstation 5 models (one with and one without a disc player), is more affordable. You may not notice these limits if you’re a skilled player, but they may be significant if you’re a novice.
Tiny Console
In terms of new generation gaming consoles, the Xbox Series S is the only one that can be purchased in practically any retail outlet. The Series X and PS5 have been out of stock since their introduction, but this little console is very simple to get your hands on.
To avoid what they perceive to be the inferior version of a gaming system, most consumers avoid purchasing it. And that’s precisely what it seems to be on paper. You won’t be able to play or watch Blu-ray discs on the Xbox Series S, but you can get away with downloading or streaming them instead. The storage capacity is just 512 GB, which is less than half of what the Series X model offers. With a graphics processing capability of 4 teraflops as opposed to 12, the Xbox Series S is only roughly a third as robust as the Xbox Series X in terms of raw statistics and technical strength. In terms of console output, this is likewise crystal clear. For video applications like Netflix or Disney+, 4K quality is supported, but for games it’s limited to a maximum of 1440p.
That’s not a good idea. Because the Xbox One X’s turbo version from the previous generation already delivered 6 teraflops.
The Xbox Series S, on the other hand, may take pride in its very compact design. Like an oversized version of the Nintendo Switch, it’s hard to tell the difference between the two. Because of this, it is considerably simpler to locate a place for this console than either its predecessor or the Series X. It’s also exceedingly quiet, much like its big brother.
Great Range of Games
The only difference between this console and the Xbox One is the resolution, which has gone from 1080p to 4K in the previous year. With the exception of a share button, the controller looks and feels exactly like the one from the previous version. There is a distinct difference between the PS4 and the PS5 in terms of how they feel.
Is it safe to say that the Xbox Series S has nothing good to offer? Contrary to popular belief, this isn’t true.If you want a large selection of games while also being prepared for the games that will be released in the future – this is an affordable option.
Because that’s essentially the gist of the matter. Games on the PS5 and Series X certainly seem superior when compared side-by-side, especially in terms of crispness. But only if you actually take the time to examine everything thoroughly. If you don’t do that, but just enjoy a game, you won’t be able to tell what resolution the title is running at.
Some fear that future games may turn worse on the Series S, and that the leaner or smaller console would have a negative impact on graphics quality. However, no such patterns have been seen so far.
Both Microsoft’s own Xbox Cloud and Steam may already be used on the Xbox Series S using the built-in browser to stream games. A 4K and full graphics Xbox Series S might be used to play titles in 4K and full graphics, as streaming of games grows in popularity. If you can do it with a Chromecast, you can do it with a low-cost Xbox as well.
Microsoft’s store already offers a wide variety of titles. Adding the Game Pass subscription service, which offers unlimited access to a huge library of games for a monthly charge, makes the Xbox One S even more appealing. For one thing, the Game Pass is far better than the PlayStation counterpart today in terms of both new and old games.
If you buy an Xbox Series S, you won’t be receiving the most technologically advanced console in the neighborhood. However, you’re missing out on absolutely nothing. In order to use it, you don’t need a high-end TV, it’s really quiet and compact, and with Game Pass you get access to more games than you can possibly play. Therefore, the Xbox Series S is an excellent buy for gamers on a budget both now and in the future.
Check out the best gaming monitor for Xbox.
Pros
- Cheap next-generation console
- A wide variety of games
- Formatted for ease of use
Cons
- Only 4K video is supported.
- A little unsure about the future
- Exactly the same user interface
- Controller that’s been minimally updated
4. Nintendo Switch OLED
Rating: 9.4 out of 10
Specifications:
- Price class: Premium
- Product Type: Game console
- Dimensions: 242x102x13.9 mm
- Weight: 420 g
- Processor: Nvidia Tegra X1
- Graphics: Maxwell-based RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4
- Storage: 64 GB built-in, micro SD card slot
- Video: 720p in portable mode, up to 1080p in docked mode
- Optical drive: No
- Wireless communication: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
- Connections, console: USB-C, headphone connectors, dock. HDMI out, 2 x USB, Ethernet
- Accessories included: Controller, dock, joy con adapter
There have been whispers of a Nintendo Switch Pro since the console’s first release in 2017. The rumors took on fresh life with the announcement of the Nintendo Switch Lite two years ago.
After months of waiting, we finally got the Nintendo Switch “Pro” edition, but it doesn’t quite measure up to our hopes and expectations. It’s more like the different XL models of Nintendo’s portable consoles, only with an OLED screen instead of a normal one.
Same Inside
First, let’s address the most pressing issue. Many aspects of the Nintendo Switch OLED are similar to those of the standard Nintendo Switch, including the chip. Neither one anticipated the Pro release to be so nor does it guarantee that the games that could be performing badly on a conventional Switch would function better here.
New features, including support for wireless headphones, have been added to the Nintendo Switch in the recent update. Additionally, the internal storage capacity has been doubled to 64 GB. This eliminates the need to purchase a memory card at the time of purchase.
Even from the outside, they seem to be the same. Joy-Con controllers are still compatible and the machine’s size should allow it to fit in any of the Labo boxes Nintendo has supplied.
The foldable stand, on the other hand, is a brand-new feature on the outside. It may now be placed in a number of places throughout the whole machine. The prior table-top stands were unsteady and limited.
Fresh But Not a Faultless Screen
The screen is the most significant advancement. While the console’s outward proportions have remained mostly the same, the frames surrounding the screen have gotten thinner, allowing for a bigger screen. The 6.2-inch screen has been upgraded to a 7-inch screen with vastly improved OLED technology, resulting in richer colors and deeper blacks.
Nintendo also does their now-famous XL maneuver here. The resolution stays at 720p, or 1280×720 pixels, despite the screen being 0.7 inches bigger. This was an issue with the Nintendo DS XL, for example, which attempted the same thing and ended up with some rather fuzzy pictures as a consequence. Because the resolution is quite high from the start, we don’t have the same sensation here, but we also can’t anticipate a crisper image.
One of the console’s main questions is about the OLED screen. Because, although OLED technology produces a fantastic picture quality, there’s always the risk of screen burn-in.
Nintendo claims that the Switch OLED is built to last for long, but advises owners to utilize both automatic shut-off and automatic brightness while the device is not in use.
There are no pixel-moving capabilities or menu settings to ‘wash’ the screen as there are on TVs. Although the danger of burn-in is low, it seems that Nintendo is delegating more responsibility to the user rather than attempting to resolve the issue themselves.
Updated Dock
The display may consume a little less electricity thanks to OLED technology. This is evident on Nintendo’s new Switch, which, despite the bigger screen, has the same battery life as the upgraded 2019 Switch. Of course, it depends on the games you play, but you may expect to play for 4.5 to 9 hours.
The docking station for connecting the console to a television has also been upgraded. This time around, the docking procedure seems a little more stable. Nintendo has replaced the third USB port on the inside of the cover with a network connector for individuals who don’t wish to use Wi-Fi. In docked mode, however, the max resolution of 1080p remains.
In many respects, the Nintendo Switch OLED is similar to the XL editions that the Nintendo 3DS and DS got later in their life cycles. It’s doubtful that a Switch Pro will be released. Instead, it’s most likely time for Nintendo to release a new console generation, which we predict will arrive in 2023.
The Nintendo Switch OLED is a slightly more high-end option to the mainstream version if you really require a connected network connection or a more sumptuous screen for playing on the move, either as a first-time purchase or to expand the number of Switches. At the same time, if you get the standard edition, which is the more cost-effective option, you won’t be losing out on anything.
A detailed Nintendo Switch OLED review is awaiting you!
Pros
- Excellent screen
- A better stand
- Similar to the original Switch’s entertaining features
Cons
- It is rather costly.
- Burn-in Risk
- There is no better resolution or performance
5. Xbox Series X
Rating: 9.6 out of 10
Specifications:
- Price class: Premium
- Product Type: Game console
- Dimensions: 301x151x151 mm
- Weight: 4.45 kg
- Processor: 3.8-GHz AMD Zen 2
- Graphics: AMD RDNA 2
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 1TB SSD
- Video: Games and videos at up to 8K resolution
- Optical drive: UHD Blu-ray
- Wireless communication: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
- Connections: HDMI out (HDMI 2.1), 3 USB (3.0)
- Accessories included: Controller, 1 month Xbox Gold trial subscription, HDMI cable
The Xbox Series X is the top-of-the-line Xbox from Microsoft. It boasts more speed and power than any previous gaming console, but it was released at a time when it couldn’t fully demonstrate its capabilities.
It is a Tower
The Xbox Series X is unlike any other gaming console we’ve ever seen. Unless, of course, you’ve ever placed two Nintendo Gamecubes over each other. It has a rectangular form and is designed to stand up like PC boxes from the computer era. You can lay it down, however, if you don’t have much room in your TV set, the height may be an issue.
Unlike the Xbox One, Microsoft has no illusions about this console serving as a kind of entertainment center for the whole house. This implies there are no more HDMI connectors on the rear. The system is, without a doubt, designed largely for games. The disc player, of course, can play anything from DVDs to 4K Blu-rays, and it can even run Netflix and Disney+ applications, but games come first.
We’re dissatisfied when the console initially turns on. The UI is identical to that of the Xbox One, with the exception of a streamlined setup procedure. This translates to the same jumbled structure. In other words, we don’t get the feeling of having the future in our living room that you generally get with a new console.
To add salt to the wound, HDR10+ isn’t now enabled, and despite the console’s technical capacity to output 8K resolution, that feature isn’t accessible at the moment.
Identical to Previous model
The controller is almost similar to the previous model. It features a new button that allows you to take screenshots and record videos, but everything else remains the same. This means you can save money by using your old controllers of Xbox on your new system. At the same time, we’d want to see new features, such as the PlayStation 5 controller’s new shoulder buttons.
Unfortunately, the lack of game titles remains the same as it was when the Xbox One was released. A console should be launched with one or two games that demonstrate the machine’s capabilities.
Halo was available on the original Xbox. With Project Gotham Racing 3 and Kameo, the Xbox 360 has done the same. At launch, the Xbox Series X has a few games that are unique to the device. Instead, the console is said to be capable of playing practically all Xbox games from prior versions.
Several titles, like Forza 4 and Gears of War 5, have been updated to take use of the new console’s capability. However, you’ll have to wait at least another six months for exclusive games that take use of the console’s capabilities.
Silent Powerhouse
Microsoft seems to have been able to achieve more with both software and hardware.
While there aren’t many games to put the machine’s muscles to the test, we do get a good idea of how it works. For starters, despite hours of playing games in 4K resolution, you can’t hear it at all. It’s almost deafeningly quiet.
The most striking aspect, and what this generation of consoles is known for, is the load times. In Doom Eternal or Gears 5, loading a new course only takes a few seconds. This is where the new storage’s speed really shines, and it’s rather astounding.
The Xbox Series X has an unbelievable amount of power that will provide an optimum gaming experience and visuals that today’s generation of consoles can’t even come close to. It’s just that you won’t be able to see it in all of its grandeur at first.
At the same time, it’s difficult to match Gaming Pass, a game subscription service that provides you access to a large number of games across a wide range of genres for a monthly charge.
The Xbox Series X is a powerful gaming console, and like any other, it’s difficult to assess it at launch. There’s a lot of promise here, as well as a strong subscription service for both online and offline play.
Pros
- It loads games really quickly
- Quiet
- Enormous potential
Cons
- On launch, there was a limited selection of large games
- The same poor user interface as previously
- When it comes to the controller, there isn’t much new
6. Nintendo Switch Lite
Rating: 9.2 out of 10
Specifications:
- Product Type: Game console
- Dimensions: 91.x208x13.9 mm
- Weight: 275 g
- Processor: Nvidia Tegra
- Graphics: Nvidia Tegra
- RAM: 4 GB
- Storage: 32GB flash memory, expandable with micro SD card
- Video: 5.5 inch LCD-screen with 1280×720 pixel resolution
- Optical device: No, only slots for Nintendo Switch cartridges
- Wireless communication: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, NFC, Bluetooth 4.1 Connections: USB-C Speaker: Yes, stereo
- Accessories: Charger Miscellaneous: Motion sensor camera and vibration in-hand controller, light sensor in the screen
There’s a lot to like about the Nintendo Switch Lite. It features a smaller screen than the normal Nintendo Switch, measuring 5.5 inches rather than 6.2 inches, but with the same resolution. Its battery life is similar, but many of the Switch’s distinguishing features have been lost.
Focuses Only on Portability
There is no support for a dock for connecting the Switch Lite to a Television, hence it does not come with one. In every regard, this is a portable gaming console. Because the controllers are attached to the console, you won’t be able to remove them.
Aside from that, everything is pretty much the same in comparison to the regular Switch for the last several years. Extra controllers can be connected wirelessly, the device can still be charged through USB-C, and all titles do work. The latter is somewhat correct. Things become a little more complicated if you have games that need different controllers and motion control, but you can get around this by purchasing them individually.
Nintendo’s fantastic Labo cardboard folding workshop only works in part because many of the structures are designed to suit the Switch’s screen.
Same Advantages, Same Disadvantages
When seen as a portable system, the Switch is amazing. The smaller size makes it much more comfortable to carry, and the smaller screen is seldom an issue. Even the most demanding games load and run as they did on the first Switch.
Because you’re locked in portable mode, it’s important to remember that this is one of Nintendo’s greatest portable gaming systems.
Sharing material across old and new Switch devices, though, isn’t ideal. Moving a game profile isn’t an issue, but sharing it across two consoles is a time-consuming procedure that needs a lot of patience and a continual internet connection to keep both consoles operational.
Another source of annoyance, which also applies to the regular Switch, is that Nintendo handles online content in the same manner as the industry did 10 years ago. The store is sluggish and difficult to explore, with just a few choices for sorting and navigation.
If you purchase your games in physical form, you won’t notice this. Digital purchases function fine as well, but the process of obtaining anything online is much more difficult than it is on the PlayStation or Xbox.
At the same time, the games and the experience are what matter the most. For the last few years, the Nintendo Switch has amassed an impressive game catalog from both large and small studios. As a result, the Switch Lite was released with what is perhaps the most vast game catalog ever — especially for a completely portable device.
Switch Lite is one of the greatest portable consoles Nintendo has ever released. Younger players and those with bigger hands will benefit from the smaller size. The primary drawback is having to share bought content across two systems, something Nintendo should have been able to make simpler. If they had done so, the Switch Lite would have received full marks as a portable console and an additional family console.
Pros
- Format that is easy to use
- It’s pleasant to hold
- A fantastic game library
Cons
- Account management and the online experience are both difficult
- Battery life is bad
Conclusion
This was all we had for you in our review about the best gaming consoles. Whether you are buying a gaming console for yourself or looking for someone else, the consoles picked in our review will keep you entertained for a long time.
Regardless of your tastes, we are sure you will find a console here that works best for you. Enjoy!
