When it comes to gaming, the options are endless – PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch OLED, Steam Deck… the list goes on. But how do you choose the right one in a world where gaming consoles are constantly evolving, and new contenders are hitting the market? It’s a tricky decision, especially as more portable consoles (like the ASUS ROG Ally X and Steam Deck) join the competition, making gaming on-the-go an exciting new possibility.
Debates between PlayStation and Xbox fans can get heated, but let’s set aside the rivalry for a moment. Whether you’re after the latest graphics, exclusive titles, or the convenience of portable play, something on this list will elevate your gaming experience.
So, if you’re ready to step up your gaming game, let’s explore the top 5 consoles you need to know about now. Get ready to find your perfect match.
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- Release Date: November 10, 2020
- CPU: 8x Zen 2 Cores at 3.8GHz (3.6GHz with SMT)
- RAM: 16 GB GDDR6
- GPU: Custom AMD Radeon RDNA Navi 12 Teraflops, 52 CUs at 1.825GHz – (Supports DirectX Ray Tracing)
- Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD
- Optical Drive: 4K UHD Blu-Ray Drive
- A/V Hookups: Native 4K, 8K Support, 2 HDMI 2.1 Ports
- Video Output: Native 4K, 8K Support, Up to 120hz (120fps)
- Price: USD $499
When it comes to raw power and performance, the Xbox Series X stands tall, right alongside its biggest competitor, the PlayStation 5. Both consoles offer an impressive set of specs, and when it comes down to deciding between the two, it’s often a matter of personal preference in terms of exclusive titles. In our testing, both consoles perform similarly, which means the games you want to play could be the deciding factor.
But what sets the Xbox Series X apart is its Game Pass subscription service, which offers access to a massive library of hundreds of games for just USD 14.99 per month. It’s an excellent value for gamers who want a constant stream of fresh content. Meanwhile, Sony has rolled out a similar subscription plan, but its price point has started to be higher at USD $17.99 per month, which we haven’t had the chance to test fully yet.
For those weighing the difference between the Xbox Series X and the Xbox Series S, the Series X offers a significant boost in power—three times more processing capability, 4K resolution support, and a disc drive. While the Series S is a more affordable option at USD $200 less, the Xbox Series X is the clear winner if you’re seeking the ultimate gaming experience with top-tier performance.
- Release Date: November 12, 2020
- CPU: 8x Zen 2 Cores at 3.5HGz
- RAM: 16GB GDDR6 RAM (256-bit)
- GPU: Custom AMD Radeon RDNA Navi 10.28 Teraflops, 36 CUs at 2.23GHz – (Supports Ray Tracing and 3D Audio via Tempest Engine)
- Storage: Custom 825GB SSD Storage Drive
- Optical Drive: 4K UHD Blu-Ray Drive (Digital Edition excluded)
- A/V Hookups: 8K Support
- Video Output: 4K, 120hz refresh rate, 8K Support
- Price: USD $499
The PlayStation 5 took the gaming world by storm upon its release in November 2020. With groundbreaking performance and an exclusive lineup of games, it quickly established itself as one of the most sought-after consoles. Much like the Xbox Series X, the PS5 delivers impressive specs that promise a next-level gaming experience, with an emphasis on ultra-fast load times and jaw-dropping visuals thanks to its custom RDNA 2 GPU and 825GB SSD.
Where the PS5 truly shines is its games. With exclusive titles like Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Demon’s Souls, and Returnal, Sony continues to lead in offering unique, genre-defining experiences. However, while performance is neck and neck with the Xbox Series X, the decision often boils down to the games you want to play and your personal preference for the PlayStation ecosystem.
Another compelling feature of the PS5 is its DualSense controller, which provides an immersive experience with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Whether you’re firing a weapon in a shooter or feeling the tension of pulling back a bowstring, the PS5 controller adds another layer of immersion that elevates the gaming experience.
When it comes to pricing, the PS5 is priced at USD $499, which aligns with the Xbox Series X. However, for those who want a cheaper option, there’s the PS5 Digital Edition at USD $449.99, offering the same performance but without a disc drive
- Release Date: October 8, 2021
- CPU: Custom Nvidia Tegra
- RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4
- GPU: Nvidia Custom Tegra
- Storage: 64GB internal storage (expandable via microSD)
- Display: 7.0-inch touch capacitive OLED Screen (1280 x 720 resolution)
- Video Output: 720p (Handheld), 1080p (Docked)
- Price: USD $349.99
The Nintendo Switch OLED is the latest iteration of Nintendo’s wildly popular hybrid console, combining the flexibility of portable gaming with the power of a home console. Released in 2021, the OLED model builds upon the original Switch, offering a larger, more vibrant 7-inch OLED display for handheld gaming that makes the difference in colour and contrast.
What truly sets the Switch OLED apart, though, is its versatility. The console’s hybrid nature means you can enjoy gaming both on the go and on your TV, seamlessly switching between handheld, tabletop, and docked modes. Whether you’re playing solo or with friends, the flexibility makes it an ideal choice for gamers looking for convenience without sacrificing fun.
In terms of performance, the Nintendo Switch OLED is powered by a custom Nvidia Tegra processor, which is similar to the original version. While it’s not a powerhouse like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, it offers a solid gaming experience for Nintendo exclusives like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
The OLED model shines in its improved display and sound quality. The larger screen and OLED tech make games look significantly better in handheld mode. Additionally, the sound from the onboard speakers has been enhanced, providing more depth and clarity than the previous models.
Priced at USD $349.99, the Switch OLED offers an appealing choice for gamers looking for a flexible, portable gaming experience. However, it’s important to note that while the OLED model has a better display and improved audio, the internal specs remain largely the same as the original Nintendo Switch. The Switch OLED is a great pick for gamers who primarily game on the go or are looking for a family-friendly option.
- Release Date: December 2023 (OLED Model)
- CPU: Zen 2 4c/8t, 2.4-3.5GHz (up to 448 GFlops FP32)
- RAM: 16 GB LPDDR5
- GPU: 8 RDNA 2 CUs, 1.6GHz (1.6 TFlops FP32)
- Storage: 64GB eMMC (base), 256GB NVMe SSD, or 512GB NVMe SSD (expandable via microSD)
- Display: 1280 x 800 x RGB
- Resolution Type: HDR OLED
- Display size: 7.4” diagonal
- Maximum Brightness: 1,000 nits peak brightness (HDR) and 600 nits (SDR)
- Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1
- Color gamut: 110% P3
- Refresh rate: up to 90Hz
- Response time: <0.1 ms
- Price: Starting at USD $549
The Steam Deck OLED is a game-changer for portable PC gaming, bringing the power of a desktop gaming rig to the palm of your hand. With its vivid OLED screen, colours pop, blacks are deeper, and every detail is sharper—making games like Cyberpunk 2077 or indie gems truly come to life. Powered by a custom AMD APU with Zen 2 CPU cores and RDNA 2 graphics, it easily handles modern AAA games, supported by 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM. Whether you’re gaming on the go or docked to an external monitor, the experience is smooth and immersive. Storage options include 64GB eMMC, 256GB NVMe SSD, or 512GB NVMe SSD, all expandable via microSD, giving you flexibility for your growing library.
What sets the Steam Deck OLED apart is its versatility. While it’s a handheld console, it can easily transform into a full-fledged PC gaming setup when connected to a monitor or TV using its USB-C with DisplayPort 1.4 support. It offers native 800p resolution on the go but can output up to 4K or 8K on an external display, with gameplay reaching 120Hz for buttery-smooth performance. Its customizable SteamOS lets you jump straight into your Steam library, but for tech-savvy users, it supports installing other operating systems like Windows. The flexibility is unmatched, making it ideal for gamers who want a console that adapts to them, not the other way around.
Starting at USD $549, the Steam Deck OLED delivers a portable PC gaming experience at a competitive price. Whether you’re playing on your couch, during your commute, or at a friend’s house, it handles everything from AAA titles to retro emulation effortlessly. If you’re looking for a device that bridges the gap between handheld and PC gaming, this console deserves a spot on your wishlist.
- Release Date: June 13, 2023
- CPU: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme (8 cores, 16 threads)
- RAM: 16 GB LPDDR5
- GPU: AMD RDNA 3 Graphics (AMD RDNA™ 3, 12 CUs, up to 2.7 GHz, up to 8.6 Teraflops)
- Storage: 512 GB PCIe Gen 4 SSD (Expandable via microSD)
- Display: 7-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
- 16:9 IPS-level
- sRGB: 100%
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Response Time: 7ms
- Brightness: 500nits
- FreeSync Premium
- Price: USD $699
If you’re the kind of gamer who wants all the power of a gaming PC but in a handheld device, the ASUS ROG Ally X might just be the console you’ve been waiting for. Released in If you’re a gamer looking for all the power of a gaming PC in a handheld device, the ASUS ROG Ally X could be the console you’ve been waiting for. Released in 2023, this portable powerhouse redefines what’s possible in gaming on the go.2023, this portable powerhouse redefines what’s possible in on-the-go gaming.
The real star here is the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, paired with RDNA 3 graphics. What does that mean for you? Essentially, it’s designed to handle even the most demanding games like a pro. Add in 16 GB of fast LPDDR5 RAM and a 512 GB SSD, and you’re looking at lightning-fast load times and seamless multitasking. It even includes a microSD slot if you need extra storage, which is always a bonus for gamers with extensive libraries.
What truly distinguishes the Ally X is its 7-inch Full HD display. Not only is it bright and vibrant, but it also features a 120Hz refresh rate, resulting in buttery smooth movement. Whether you’re dodging enemies or immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of an open-world RPG, the visuals are outstanding. Want a larger screen? Simply connect it to an external monitor and experience 4K output—perfect for when you’re at home.
But wait, there’s more. ASUS has gone all out with flexibility. The console supports the ROG XG Mobile eGPU, an external graphics card that transforms this handheld into a full-fledged gaming rig. Need to push AAA titles to their maximum settings? No problem. With the eGPU, it feels like having two consoles in one.
