The best gaming consoles: choose from performance, value, retro, and more
Best gaming consoles have never been more diverse. Sony’s PlayStation 5 still stands out as the best overall choice, thanks to its exclusive games, advanced controller technology, and refined user interface. Meanwhile, the Xbox Series X has made strides with the impressive Xbox Game Pass, the Nintendo Switch remains a bestseller (especially its fantastic OLED model), and Valve’s Steam Deck brings the power of PC gaming into a portable format.
Best gaming consoles – The quick list
Best gaming consoles in 2025
As someone with 25 years of experience writing about video games and editing Official PlayStation Magazine and several Xbox magazines, I’m here to share why each of the top game consoles deserves your attention. With so many great options available right now, each console on my list offers unique advantages and features—something I can personally attest to, as I own most of them.
1. PlayStation 5
Pros:
- Supports 4K and 120fps
- Brilliant controller
- Speedy and slick UI
- Fast SSD storage
Cons:
- Internal storage fills up quick
- Large overall size
Currently, the best overall gaming console is the PlayStation 5. Launched in 2020 as a successor to the PlayStation 4, the PS5 has faced supply challenges but remains poised to become one of the best-selling consoles of all time.
The PS5 is a powerhouse, offering 4K resolution and up to 120fps gameplay. Its 3D audio enhances the gaming experience, and the console runs quietly, though the disc drive can be noisy when pre-loading games.
In my review of the PS5, I highlighted the DualSense controller as Sony’s secret weapon. With features like haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, reactive lighting, a touchpad, and a built-in microphone, the DualSense offers a unique and immersive gaming experience. These features are fully customizable, allowing players to adjust or disable them as needed. For more options, check out the best PS5 controllers available now.
GPU: 10.28 TFLOPs, 36 CUs at 2.23GHz
Memory: 16GB
Expandable storage: NVMe SSD
Optical Drive: 4K UHD Blu-ray Drive
2. Xbox Series X
Pros:
- A fast and powerful games console
- Game Pass is incredible value
- Play in 4K at 120fps
- Great backwards compatibility
Cons:
- Lacks compelling exclusives
- UI is workable but clumsy
- Clunky UI compared to PS5
You might be surprised that I’ve chosen the Xbox Series X as the best value gaming console. While it’s not the most affordable option on my list and its performance is on par with the PS5, making it more of an investment than the Nintendo Switch OLED or Lite, the value lies in Xbox Game Pass.
Xbox Game Pass is a game-changer, offering access to thousands of games, including day-one releases like Starfield, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and Hellblade 2, all for just $14.99 / £10.99 a month. It also includes a vast library of classics from the Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One eras, along with indie gems and titles from Ubisoft and EA. In terms of sheer value, nothing compares to Game Pass, and the Xbox Series X is the best console to fully leverage it.
The Xbox Series X delivers 4K gameplay at high frame rates, making it a powerhouse for some of the most graphically impressive games available. However, in my Xbox Series X review, I noted that it lacks a controller as innovative as the DualSense and its user interface feels somewhat outdated.
On the upside, the Xbox Series X is slightly more affordable than the PS5. For those concerned about price, the Xbox Series S is a budget-friendly alternative, though it’s less powerful (yet all games are developed for both models). If you’re looking for a top-tier gaming console with an extensive library of games, the Xbox Series X is an excellent choice, even if it doesn’t have some of the advanced features found on the PlayStation 5.
GPU: 12 TFLOPS, 52 CUs @ 1.825 GHz Custom RDNA 2 GPU
Memory: 16 GB
Expandable Storage: 1TB Expansion Card
Optical Drive: 4K UHD Blu-ray Drive
3. Nintendo Switch OLED
Pros:
- Great OLED display
- Loads of fantastic games
- Portable and home play
- Quality exclusive games
Cons:
- TV mode lacks upgrades
- Lacking performance
- Base model can be cheaper
The Nintendo Switch OLED stands out as the ultimate version among Nintendo’s current consoles. While its internal processing power matches that of the standard Nintendo Switch, the screen has received a significant upgrade. The 7-inch OLED display enhances the visual experience, making the best Nintendo Switch games look better than ever in handheld mode.
Priced at $349.99 / £299.99, the Nintendo Switch OLED is more expensive than the standard model but remains more affordable than Sony’s PS5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X. However, it’s important to note that the Switch OLED isn’t as powerful as these consoles, and games ported from other platforms may not run as smoothly.
Beyond the screen improvements, the Switch OLED features a wider kickstand and upgraded speakers, making tabletop mode more stable and enhancing audio quality when undocked. Plus, you won’t have to worry about game compatibility—every Nintendo Switch game works with the OLED model.
While the Nintendo Switch OLED offers numerous upgrades, there are still good reasons to consider the original Switch model. This includes the availability of special limited edition designs, like the charming Animal Crossing Switch, or the opportunity to find great deals on Nintendo Switch bundles.
GPU: NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor
Memory: 4 GB
Expandable storage: MicroSD card
Optical Drive: None
4. Valve Steam Deck
Pros:
- Excellent performance
- Huge library of PC and indie games
- Innovative mix of power and design
Cons:
- Innovative mix of power and design
GPU: AMD RDNA 2
RAM: 16GB
Optical Drive: SSD
Storage: 64 – 512GB
5. Nintendo Switch Lite
Pros:
- Light and small
- Very durable
- Comfortable to use
- Great color options
- Affordable price for a console
Cons:
- No built-in rumble or kickstand
- Limited to handheld games
The Nintendo Switch Lite is our top pick for families and kids. Priced at $199.99 / £200, it’s more affordable than the standard Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED models. Its compact design is perfect for smaller hands or anyone who prefers a more portable console. Plus, it comes in a range of vibrant colors like blue, pink, purple, and yellow.
Built with sturdy plastic, the Switch Lite is more durable than the standard model, making it a great choice for long-term use. Unlike the regular Switch, its Joy-Con controllers are integrated, so there’s no risk of them getting lost.
While the screen is smaller compared to the Switch OLED, it still delivers the same 720p resolution as its counterparts. The performance remains consistent, so you can enjoy smooth gameplay without any compromises, even on a more compact system.
GPU: NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor
Memory: 4GB
Expandable storage: MicroSD card
Portable battery life: approx 3 – 7 hours
6. Evercade EXP
Pros:
- Fantastic screen
- Excellent built-in games library
- TATE mode is a good option
Cons:
- TATE mode feels cramped
- The cartridge slot is tight
- New EXP-R model is better
The Evercade EXP stands out as the best retro gaming console available today. Unlike mini replicas like the Atari 400 Mini or consoles designed solely for older games, such as the Atari 2600+, the Evercade EXP offers a unique blend. It plays collections of classic games from the 8, 16, and 32-bit eras, alongside new indie titles and modern retro-inspired games.
With a vast library of game collections, often affordably priced with six to eight games each, the Evercade EXP is an excellent entry point for retro gaming enthusiasts. The console’s hardware shines as well, with an OLED screen that brings vibrant life to retro games and a comfortable, responsive handheld design. Plus, it can connect to a TV, expanding its versatility. The TATE mode is a notable feature, allowing vertical gameplay for classic shooters, though it can feel slightly gimmicky due to the close placement of buttons, as mentioned in my Evercade EXP review.
Overall, the Evercade EXP offers incredible value for money. It comes pre-installed with 18 Capcom classics, including Final Fight, Ghouls ‘n Ghosts, and Strider. A special bundle includes the IREM Arcade 1 collection, featuring iconic ’80s arcade titles like R-Type.
Additionally, Evercade has released the new EXP-R model, featuring a sleek black design with teal accents. This updated version boasts a cooler-running chipset and a textured grip for added comfort. It supports the entire Evercade cartridge library and includes Tomb Raider in the bundle, enhancing its appeal for retro gaming fans.
GPU: n/a (emulation)
Screen: 4.3 inch IPS Screen (800 x480)
Portable battery life: approx 5 hours
Conclusion:
In 2025, the gaming console market offers a wide variety of options, each catering to different gaming preferences and needs. Whether you’re drawn to the immersive experience of the PlayStation 5, the power of the Xbox Series X, or the versatility of the Nintendo Switch, there’s something for everyone. Our guide to the best 6 gaming consoles of 2025 Neu Deals has highlighted the top contenders based on performance, game libraries, and overall value. With the right console, you can elevate your gaming experience and stay ahead of the curve in this ever-evolving world of entertainment. Choose wisely and enjoy the ultimate gaming adventures ahead!
