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Best Gaming Consoles of 2025 – Top Picks for Gamers of All Types

Our tested and recommended consoles for performance, portability, and value—plus tips to pick the right system for your playstyle.

How to Choose the Right Console

  1. Decide your priority: Performance (4K/60+ FPS), portability, exclusives, or family features.
  2. Check the ecosystem: Backwards compatibility, friends platforms, and subscription services affect long-term value.
  3. Consider accessories: Controller feel, storage expansion, and optional add-ons like VR or media remotes.
  4. Budget & longevity: Factor in the console price plus subscriptions and likely future support.

Top Picks

Buyer's Favorite: Switch 2 — 4K HDR Handheld

Gaming consoles: discover the Nintendo Switch 2 — the next-generation hybrid console that combines TV, tabletop and handheld play with 4K HDR docking, a vivid 7.9” touch display, faster performance up to 120 fps, and backward compatibility with Nintendo Switch games. Ideal for players who want portable power, living-room 4K, and modern social features like voice and video GameChat.

Nintendo Switch 2 System

Nintendo Switch 2 System — $449.00. Play video games like Pokemon, Mario, and Zelda. The next evolution of the Nintendo Switch delivers one system with three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld. Enjoy a larger, vivid 7.9-inch LCD touchscreen with HDR support and up to 120 fps for smoother gameplay on the go. The dock supports 4K output on compatible TVs, while Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically and add new mouse control options. Built-in GameChat lets you voice chat, share screens, and connect via video as you play. With 256GB internal storage (expandable via microSD Express) and compatibility with physical and digital Nintendo Switch games, the Switch 2 is designed for modern multiplayer — same-system, local wireless, and online. For console exclusive games, enjoy Nintendo-only hits like Super Mario Bros. Wonder, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 3, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Metroid Dread. Shop now for $449.00.

  • Price: 449.00
  • Manufacturer: Nintendo
  • Seller: Amazon
  • Greatest Appliance's Score: 4.8

Key Features:

  • One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
  • 7.9” LCD touch screen with HDR support and up to 120 fps
  • Dock supports 4K output on compatible TVs
  • GameChat for voice, screen sharing, and video chat while playing
  • 256GB internal storage (system uses a portion); expandable with microSD Express cards (sold separately)
  • Plays physical and digital Nintendo Switch games
  • Magnetic Joy‑Con 2 controllers with new mouse control options
  • Same-system multiplayer, local wireless, and online multiplayer support

Pros

  • Exclusive games: Access to Nintendo console exclusives like Super Mario Bros. Wonder, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 3, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Metroid Dread
  • Versatile hybrid design: play on TV, in tabletop mode, or handheld
  • High-quality 7.9-inch HDR display and up to 120 fps for smoother visuals
  • 4K-capable dock delivers crisp, detailed gaming on compatible TVs
  • Backward compatibility with Nintendo Switch games preserves existing library
  • Robust social features (GameChat) make multiplayer sessions more engaging
  • Generous 256GB internal storage with microSD expansion option

Cons

  • $449 price point is premium compared with previous generation models
  • 4K output requires a compatible TV and HDMI setup
  • Portion of the 256GB storage is reserved for system files
  • microSD Express cards and some accessories sold separately
  • High-performance settings (HDR/120 fps) may impact battery life in handheld mode
  • No access to PlayStation or Xbox console exclusives

What Customers Say:

This thing is so much more powerful than switch 1 its ridiculous. Screen looks great. Games run great. Cant wait to see how powerful of games it will be able to play. I think maybe gta5 will be playable on sw2 at some point.Candyflipper

Arrived overnight in perfect condition. I'm amazed at how good Switch 1 games look on this baby, in addition to Switch 2 games. This feels like a console that will hold up, with much higher build quality than the first hardware iteration. If none of the recent games strike your fancy, you may hold out for a later revision (a la the OLED Switch) for the 2's hardware, but honestly, this thing feels fantastic.Jonathan P.

Works great, Zelda games play great, have not tried others yet. Bought without the game included. Recommend.love2sew

Where to Buy:

Most Reviewed: Xbox Series X: 4K 120FPS

Most Reviewed: Xbox Series X — Discover top-rated gaming consoles built for 4K, 120FPS performance. This section highlights the Xbox Series X All Digital gaming console with a 1TB SSD, Robot White finish, and included wireless controller — engineered for ultra-fast load times, Quick Resume, and backward compatibility across four generations of games.

Xbox Series X - All Digital Gaming Console - 1TB SSD - Includes Wireless Controller - 4K Gaming - 120FPS - Robot White

Xbox Series X All Digital (1TB SSD) in Robot White delivers next-level console gaming with native 4K visuals and up to 120FPS for smoother, more immersive play. Designed for fast-paced modern titles, the 1TB NVMe SSD drastically reduces load times so you can jump into games like Fortnite and Grand Theft Auto instantly. Switch between titles with Quick Resume and access hundreds of high-quality games across console, PC, and cloud with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate — including day-one releases like The Outer Worlds 2, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, and Grounded 2. Backward compatibility lets you play four generations of games, many optimized for Xbox Series X|S to look and perform better than ever. For console exclusive games, enjoy Xbox-only hits on console such as Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, Forza Motorsport, Gears 5, Starfield, and Microsoft Flight Simulator. Package includes the Xbox Series X console (All Digital), one Xbox Wireless Controller, an ultra-high-speed HDMI cable, power cable, and 2 AA batteries.

  • Price: 582.65
  • Manufacturer: Microsoft
  • Seller: Amazon
  • Greatest Appliance's Score: 4.9

Key Features:

  • 4K gaming with up to 120 FPS for ultra-smooth visuals
  • 1TB internal SSD for lightning-fast load times and large game libraries
  • All Digital console design — digital purchases and downloads only (no disc drive)
  • Quick Resume: instantly switch and resume multiple games
  • Backward compatibility: play four generations of Xbox games, many optimized for Series X|S
  • Includes Xbox Wireless Controller, ultra-high-speed HDMI cable, power cable, and 2 AA batteries
  • Compatible with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for hundreds of games and day-one releases

Pros

  • Stunning 4K visuals and high frame rates up to 120FPS for competitive and cinematic play
  • Fast NVMe 1TB SSD reduces load times and improves game responsiveness
  • Quick Resume and extensive backward compatibility maximize play time and game variety
  • Includes controller and essential cables out of the box — ready to play
  • Access to Xbox console exclusives like Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, Forza Motorsport, Starfield, Gears 5, and Microsoft Flight Simulator

Cons

  • All Digital model lacks a disc drive — physical game discs and Blu-ray playback are not supported
  • 1TB storage can fill quickly with modern game sizes; may require external storage for large libraries
  • Controller uses AA batteries (included) rather than a built-in rechargeable battery
  • Does not play PlayStation or Nintendo console exclusives

What Customers Say:

There is not that I can complain about with this product! It is built to last and is easy to install. The games are a blast to play and I love the sleek, elegant design of the console. I love that it also includes a controller so I could start playing immediately.Eric Lee

My husband had to have it lol . Great gaming system . The images or so life like in some of the new games love itkat myers

Series x works perfectly so far no malfunctions loads quick, the system is quite and was easy to set up loving it so farJ.cobb

Where to Buy:

Best Budget: Affordable 120FPS Next-Gen Console

Best Budget: Affordable 120FPS Next-Gen Console — Discover the Xbox Series S, a compact, all-digital gaming console delivering next-gen speeds up to 120 FPS, lightning-fast load times, and backward compatibility at an unbeatable value.

Xbox Series S - All Digital Gaming Console - 512GB SSD - Includes Xbox Wireless Controller - 120FPS - Robot White

Xbox Series S (Robot White) — All-Digital Next-Gen Console with 512GB SSD and Xbox Wireless Controller. This compact powerhouse brings smooth 120 FPS gameplay, ultra-fast load times, and Quick Resume to jump back into multiple games instantly. Enjoy thousands of titles with four-generation backward compatibility and access to day-one releases through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. For console exclusive games, play Xbox-only favorites on console such as Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, Forza Motorsport, Gears 5, Starfield, and Microsoft Flight Simulator. Included in the box: Xbox Series S console, one Xbox Wireless Controller, high-speed HDMI cable, power cable, and 2 AA batteries.

  • Price: 376.54
  • Manufacturer: Microsoft
  • Seller: Amazon
  • Greatest Appliance's Score: 4.8

Key Features:

  • Smooth 120 FPS gameplay for responsive, next-gen performance
  • 512GB NVMe SSD for lightning-fast load times and Quick Resume between games
  • All-digital design—play, download, and stream games without a disc drive
  • Backward compatibility across four generations of Xbox titles, with optimized enhancements for Series X|S
  • Includes Xbox Wireless Controller, high-speed HDMI cable, power cable, and 2 AA batteries
  • Compact Robot White console (10.8" x 5.9" x 2.6") ideal for small setups
  • Access to hundreds of high-quality games and day-one releases with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Pros

  • Best value next-gen performance — 120 FPS and fast SSD at an affordable price
  • Seamless experience with Quick Resume and broad backward compatibility
  • Access to Xbox console exclusives like Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, Forza Motorsport, Starfield, Gears 5, and Microsoft Flight Simulator

Cons

  • All-digital console — no disc drive for physical game or movie discs
  • 512GB storage can fill quickly; may require external storage for large libraries
  • Does not play PlayStation or Nintendo console exclusives

What Customers Say:

Nice, personal type of device. Compact, tidy, portable, works very well. I appreciate its ease of use and online social gaming aspect. I also like I can download media streaming apps and control them directly from the Xbox. Everything from Netflix to YouTube flows very nicely, and looks great thanks to the hardware used for the system. I use it connected to a monitor along with an old laptop, and its a perfect complement for such a set up. Very satisfied with the purchase.J.H.

Everything works perfectly. For the price i think it’s really nice that you are able to play next gen games without spending thousands. And the game pass is so good too! Don’t regret it at all.Lincoln

Best budget gaming console cheaper, good size it can fit almost anywhere good for casual gamers, durability looks good not to fragileEzequiel

Where to Buy:

Best High-End: PS5 Pro — AI 4K Performance

Best High-End: PS5 Pro — AI 4K Performance. The PlayStation 5 Pro gaming console raises the bar for high-end consoles with AI-driven 4K upscaling, advanced ray tracing and optimized performance for 60Hz and 120Hz TVs. Designed for serious gamers and 4K displays, the PS5 Pro delivers sharper detail, smoother frame rates and faster load times for an immersive next-gen experience.

PlayStation 5 Pro Console

PlayStation 5 Pro Console — $749.00. Experience ultra-high-definition gaming with PS5 Pro, featuring PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) for AI-enhanced 4K clarity, optimized performance for more consistent 60Hz and 120Hz gameplay, and advanced ray tracing for lifelike reflections, shadows, and global illumination. Ships with a 2TB SSD and a DualSense wireless controller, plus HDMI and power cables, two horizontal stand feet, and ASTRO’s PLAYROOM pre-installed. Note: PS5 Pro enhancements are available only on select games enhanced for PS5 Pro and will vary by title. For console exclusive games, play PlayStation-only hits on console such as Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, God of War Ragnarök, The Last of Us Part I, Demon’s Souls, Horizon Forbidden West, Gran Turismo 7, and Final Fantasy XVI. Disc drive not included.

  • Price: 749.00
  • Manufacturer: Sony
  • Seller: Amazon
  • Greatest Appliance's Score: 4.6

Key Features:

  • PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) — AI-enhanced 4K upscaling for ultra-high-definition image clarity
  • Optimized Console Performance — higher and more consistent frame rates with support for 60Hz and 120Hz displays
  • Advanced Ray Tracing — improved reflections, shadows and global illumination for next-level realism
  • 2TB internal SSD — faster load times and expanded storage for large game libraries
  • Includes DualSense wireless controller with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers
  • Box contents: PS5 Pro console, DualSense controller, 2TB SSD, 2 horizontal stand feet, HDMI cable, AC power cord, printed materials, ASTRO’s PLAYROOM (pre-installed)
  • Feature availability varies — PS5 Pro enhancements only available on select PS5 games enhanced for PS5 Pro
  • Designed for 4K TVs and modern high-refresh displays to maximize visual fidelity and performance

Pros

  • AI-driven PSSR delivers noticeably sharper 4K visuals and improved detail on compatible TVs
  • Optimized hardware and 2TB SSD enable smoother gameplay and significantly reduced load times
  • Access to PlayStation console exclusives like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, God of War Ragnarök, The Last of Us Part I, Demon’s Souls, Horizon Forbidden West, Gran Turismo 7, and Final Fantasy XVI

Cons

  • Premium price point at $749.00 may be expensive for some buyers
  • Not all PS5 games are enhanced for PS5 Pro; feature benefits vary by title and disc drive is not included
  • Does not play Xbox or Nintendo console exclusives

What Customers Say:

This PS5 pro works perfectly as intended. I can't wait to get a 4K TV to fully take advantage of all of its features like the larger GPU and better clarity. This was worth every penny of my hard earned money and I couldn't be happier!Jesse Day

What can you expect from PlayStation? Nothing but greatness! Pro even better! Best graphics. Best games best everything. Hands-down number one console.MOJOMIke

Not a huge step up from the base PS5 but excellent as well. I am a very dedicated gamer and to me, the differences are noticable. The increase in storage is great and PSSR is a phenomenal AI-driven upscaler. There is also support for PS4 upscaling but it’s not really a night and day difference.Robopyro

Where to Buy:

Try Something New: Steam Deck OLED — 1TB 90Hz

Try Something New: Steam Deck OLED — 1TB 90Hz. Discover the Valve Steam Deck OLED handheld gaming console with a 7.4" HDR OLED display, 90Hz refresh, 1TB NVMe storage and 16GB LPDDR5 RAM. Ideal for PC gamers who want high-fidelity portable gaming with SteamOS 3.0 and dock-ready connectivity.

VALVE Steam Deck OLED 1TB SSD + 16GB RAM (International Version) - 7.4" inch, 90Hz, 1280 x 800px, SteamOS 3.0, Handheld Gaming Console

Experience PC-class gaming on the go with the Valve Steam Deck OLED 1TB (International UK version). Built around a vivid 7.4-inch HDR OLED screen running up to 90Hz with ultra-fast response, this handheld delivers crisp colors, deep contrast, and smooth gameplay. Under the hood is a 6nm AMD APU paired with 16GB LPDDR5 and a 1TB NVMe SSD for fast load times and large libraries. SteamOS 3.0 provides native Steam integration and Proton compatibility for a huge catalog of PC games. Connectivity includes tri-band Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and DisplayPort over USB-C (up to 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 120Hz) for docking. Approximate battery life is 3–12 hours depending on settings and titles. For exclusive titles, it shines with PC-only games like Dota 2 and Counter-Strike 2, but it does not natively support PlayStation-, Xbox-, or Nintendo-only console exclusives.

  • Price: 805.00
  • Manufacturer: VALVE
  • Seller: Amazon
  • Greatest Appliance's Score: 4.7

Key Features:

  • International (UK) version — optimized for global use
  • 7.4" HDR OLED display, 1280 x 800 RGB, up to 90Hz, <0.1 ms response
  • 1TB NVMe SSD for fast load times and large game storage
  • 16GB LPDDR5 on-board RAM (5500 MT/s, quad 32-bit channels)
  • 6 nm AMD APU: Zen 2 4c/8t CPU (2.4–3.5GHz) and 8 RDNA 2 CUs GPU (1.6GHz)
  • APU power range 4–15W; GPU performance up to ~1.6 TFLOPS FP32
  • 50Wh battery — approximately 3–12 hours gameplay depending on usage
  • SteamOS 3.0 (Arch-based) with Proton compatibility for many PC titles
  • Tri-band Wi‑Fi 6E (2.4/5/6 GHz) 2x2 MIMO and Bluetooth 5.3 with dedicated antenna
  • microSD UHS-I slot (SD/SDHC/SDXC) for expandable storage
  • DisplayPort over USB-C (up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@120Hz) and USB3 Gen2
  • High-performance touch controls and precision input for handheld play

Pros

  • Stunning OLED display with HDR and 90Hz for vivid, smooth visuals
  • 1TB NVMe plus 16GB LPDDR5 offers desktop-class load times and multitasking
  • Robust connectivity and docking support let you play on big screens
  • SteamOS integration and Proton expand access to thousands of PC games
  • Tri-band Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 provide low-latency online and accessory support
  • Access to massive PC libraries including PC-only exclusives such as Dota 2 and Counter-Strike 2

Cons

  • Battery life varies widely (about 3–12 hours) depending on game and settings
  • International (UK) version may require a different power adapter or regional warranty considerations; some Windows-native games may need Proton tweaks to run
  • Does not natively run PlayStation-, Xbox-, or Nintendo-only console exclusives

What Customers Say:

If you’re on the edge about buying one just do it. I didn’t even realize they were a thing until a friend of mine suggested I get one after I mentioned building a PC. Games run smooth and look great on it and Valve is an awesome company. I passed on getting a PS5 for this and I have no regrets.Amazon Customer

Love my steam deck. If you're on the fence about it, just do it. It's like having a mini gaming computer.C Sexton

Revived my gaming passion , now playing all my face retro games like driver san fran to midway arcade treasures 1austin maxwell

Where to Buy:

User Request: PS5 Slim — Compact 1TB Console

Shop top gaming consoles including the PlayStation®5 Slim — the next-gen, compact PlayStation 5 option for immersive 4K gaming. Compare consoles by storage, performance and accessories to find the best system for PS5 games, DualSense features, ray tracing, fast SSD load times and backward compatibility. Find new releases, bundles and official Sony consoles like the PS5 Slim (1TB) with controller included.

PlayStation®5 console (slim)

PlayStation 5 console (slim) — Model CFI-2000, $549.00. Experience next-gen gaming in a smaller footprint with the PS5 Slim 1TB: an ultra-fast NVMe SSD for near-instant load times, support for 4K visuals and ray tracing, and the immersive DualSense wireless controller with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. This slim PS5 includes a disc drive for physical games and media, two horizontal stand feet, HDMI cable, AC power cord, USB cable, printed materials, and ASTRO’s PLAYROOM pre-installed. Ideal for players who want full PS5 performance in a space-saving design. For console exclusive games, dive into PlayStation-only hits on console such as Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, God of War Ragnarök, The Last of Us Part I, Demon’s Souls, Horizon Forbidden West, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, and Gran Turismo 7. Vertical stand sold separately.

  • Price: 549.00
  • Manufacturer: Sony
  • Seller: Amazon
  • Greatest Appliance's Score: 4.8

Key Features:

  • Model Number CFI-2000 (PS5 Slim)
  • Includes DualSense Wireless Controller with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers
  • 1TB internal SSD for ultra-fast load times
  • Built-in disc drive for physical games and Blu-ray media
  • Includes 2 horizontal stand feet for stable placement
  • HDMI cable, AC power cord and USB cable included
  • ASTRO’s PLAYROOM pre-installed
  • Printed setup materials included; vertical stand sold separately

Pros

  • Compact slim design saves space while delivering full PS5 performance
  • 1TB SSD dramatically reduces load times and speeds game installs
  • Included DualSense controller enhances immersion with haptics and adaptive triggers
  • Disc drive supports physical game libraries and media playback
  • Ready out of the box with cables and a pre-installed demo game
  • Access to PlayStation console exclusives like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, God of War Ragnarök, The Last of Us Part I, Demon’s Souls, Horizon Forbidden West, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, and Gran Turismo 7

Cons

  • 1TB storage can fill up quickly with modern game sizes — may require additional external storage
  • Vertical stand is not included and must be purchased separately for upright placement
  • Higher price point than digital-only or older console generations
  • Does not play Xbox or Nintendo console exclusives

What Customers Say:

Super happy with how convenient playing on console is. I've had to take a step back from gaming on pc because I've gotten tired of and am having a harder time of justifying the semi-constant expensive upgrades for a gaming pc now that I've had the recent-ish life change of becoming a single parent. The PS5 slim does the job it's designed to and does it fairly well. The performance on games is acceptable, and I can just come home, relax, and enjoy my little leisure time actually playing my games. Does it give stronger game performance than my pc? No, but I don't need it to. I just need it to play well enough that I can enjoy myself.Cody Keith

The PlayStation 5 is amazing! Super fast, great graphics, and the controller feels incredible. Totally worth it!Eilen Real

That’s definitely the best console I experienced until today. I decided for the digital version not knowing if I would miss having the discs that I always loved. Right decision, I am happy with the PS5 clean visual and powerful performance.Carlos Bristotti

Where to Buy:

Best Gaming Consoles for 2025: Top Picks & Buying Guide

This guide helps you find the best gaming consoles for 2025 by comparing performance, exclusive games, price, and value. Whether you prioritize 4K performance, portability, or subscription services like Game Pass, this overview highlights the key considerations and top options to inform your next console purchase.

How to Choose a Gaming Console in 2025

When choosing a console in 2025, weigh hardware performance (GPU/CPU, 4K/120Hz support), game library and exclusives, backwards compatibility, online ecosystems and subscriptions, controller features, storage and upgradeability, and your budget. Consider whether you want a living-room powerhouse, a portable system, or a budget-friendly entry with cloud gaming support.

Top Console Benefits in 2025

  • Next-gen performance and visuals: native 4K, high frame rates, and ray tracing for immersive AAA experiences
  • Subscription services and cloud gaming: Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, and cloud streaming increase value and game availability

Common Use Cases

  • Single-player, cinematic AAA gaming with exclusive titles and high-fidelity performance
  • Multiplayer, esports, and cross-platform play with subscription access to large libraries and cloud streaming

Top Console Examples for 2025

  • Sony PlayStation 5 — Best for exclusive single-player titles, strong first-party studios, and cinematic experiences
  • Xbox Series X/S — Best for raw performance (Series X), value and backward compatibility, and Game Pass library access

Conclusion: Which Console Should You Buy?

Choose PlayStation 5 if you want top-tier exclusives and a cinematic single-player focused library.
Choose Xbox Series X/S if you value performance, backwards compatibility, and the best subscription value via Game Pass.

Gaming Console FAQ

Which console is best for 4K gaming?

High-end home consoles typically target native or near-native 4K performance. Check the console's GPU capability and whether the games you play support native 4K or rely on upscaling.

Should I buy a handheld or home console?

Handhelds are ideal for portability and indie/retro-focused libraries; home consoles offer more power and better multimedia support. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize portability or performance.

How important are subscription services?

Subscriptions can greatly expand your game library, provide online multiplayer, and offer discounts. Consider available services and exclusive titles when choosing a system.