Video game consoles have become an integral part of modern entertainment, offering immersive gameplay and the ability to connect with friends and family both in person and online. With numerous options available, choosing the best video gaming consoles for you can be a challenging task.
This guide aims to provide an overview of the top video game consoles currently available on Amazon, along with their pros and cons.
Best video game consoles on Amazon
XBOX Series S
The XBOX Series S stands apart from the XBOX Series X and PlayStation 5 Digital Edition as a distinct console in terms of design, performance, and target audience. It positions itself as a 1080p 120 fps / 1440p 60 fps gaming console, making it a competitive option.
For casual gamers or those seeking a console primarily for portability, the Series S is an excellent choice. Its smaller size and lack of an optical drive make it convenient for on-the-go gaming.
PlayStation 5
The highly coveted Sony PlayStation 5 tops the list created by TechEngage. Released in 2020, this next-gen gaming console has become one of the most sought-after pieces of technology. The PS5 features a futuristic design with a black-and-white two-tone aesthetic that may polarise opinions.
The console comes with the new DualSense controller, offering immersive haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and a built-in microphone.
Microsoft XBOX Series X
XBOX Series X offers next-gen speed and performance with its Xbox Velocity Architecture, delivering 12 teraflops of processing power. The system on a chip (SOC) works in conjunction with AMD's Zen 2 and RDNA 2 architectures, resulting in visually stunning worlds. DirectX ray tracing technology enhances lighting, shadows, and reflections, creating lifelike environments.
The XBOX Series X is marketed as a 4K 120 fps powerhouse. With HDR 10 support, games appear vibrant and visually striking on compatible displays. The console features a fast custom SSD and a powerful CPU, translating to faster load times and improved quick resume capabilities. However, expansion memory for PS5 and Series X games can be expensive, presenting a trade-off when managing game libraries.
XBOX One X and PS4 Pro
The last-gen offerings from Microsoft and Sony, namely the XBOX One X and PS4 Pro, can be considered for those seeking immediate access to a broad selection of games. The base models of these consoles are not recommended due to their age and limited capabilities.
Both the XBOX One X and PS4 Pro deliver realistic 1440p performance, dropping to 1080p for newer games. Performance on these consoles has improved significantly, providing a more satisfying gaming experience. The preference between the two consoles often boils down to personal choice, with the PS4 boasting impressive exclusives like The Last of Us 2, Spider-Man, and God of War.
Nintendo Switch Lite
For those interested in the Nintendo Switch library, the Switch Lite is an ideal handheld console. Whether you're excited to play Pokemon Sword and Shield or enjoy the charm of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the Switch Lite offers a convenient and portable gaming experience.