Game consoles have become an absolute must for gamers. Every few months, big game releases often target specific consoles and target audiences. So, if you want to stay up to date with the gaming world and have the best possible gaming experience, the right console is paramount.
At the same time, there are many more consoles available on the market today than ever before. Gone are the days when you had to choose between two or three consoles. Consoles now provide mobility, cloud gaming, and even act as an entertainment hub. So, if you’re looking for your next console purchase, I’ve put together this list of the best gaming consoles you can buy today. Check them out!
- prefix 5
- Xbox Series X
- Nintendo Switch OLED
- Xbox Series S
- steam deck
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 4 Pro
- Nintendo Switch Lite
1. PlayStation 5 – Editor’s Choice
Was there any other console as first choice? The PlayStation console from Sony has always been at the top of the market. Now, with the new technologies and design implemented in the PlayStation 5, it’s hard to find a better option. So, the first and best overall pick for the best gaming consoles in 2023 is the PlayStation 5.
The PlayStation 5 was launched at the end of 2020. Nearly three years after its release, the console is still the best option for gamers around the world. It not only provides exceptional gaming performance at 4K resolution, but also offers many exclusive games.
What’s more, with the new technologies integrated into the newly developed DualSense controller, you have just about everything you need. It delivers a cohesive gaming experience that you won’t find on any other console. Along with that, the PlayStation Plus catalog is updated frequently and you have accessories like the PSVR2 for added versatility.
The only major issue with the PlayStation 5 is that the console is quite large. As such, you won’t be able to carry it around with you, and you’ll need a significant amount of space to accommodate it.
pros
- Excellent overall performance
- DualSense controller adds layered gameplay
- Superb collection of exclusive games for the platform
- Many accessories available to increase versatility
Minuses
- Requires a lot of space due to size
2. Xbox Series X is the versatility champion
While the PlayStation 5 gets most of the applause for its next-gen gaming experience, the Xbox Series X isn’t far behind. It is also one of the most powerful gaming consoles with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision support; something that its fiercest competitor lacks.
Plus, 16GB of GDDR6 RAM and technologies like variable speed shading technology ensure your games look great. Plus, you’ll have full access to an Xbox Game Pass subscription at a pretty attractive price and with a decent selection of games. Xbox Series X games are definitely worth the money with the visual fidelity on offer.
However, it is also quite powerful in terms of an all-round entertainment center. You will be able to access all your OTT streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu and other apps through your Xbox console. So, in this offer from Microsoft, everyone will find something for themselves.
However, the biggest disappointment for the console comes with exclusive games. Microsoft needs to expand its exclusive game library if it wants to compete with the Sony console.
pros
- Extremely powerful hardware
- Xbox Game Pass is affordable and contains decent games.
- Can access all entertainment media and apps through the Xbox console.
Minuses
- Need better additions to the list of exclusive games
Check on Amazon | Buy on xbox.com
3. Nintendo Switch OLED is the best portable gaming device
Nintendo has always targeted a different audience than its competitors. From the Nintendo 64 to the Wii U, the company has taken a unique approach to gaming. With the Nintendo Switch OLED, you get a powerful gaming device that you can take with you wherever you go, making it one of the best gaming consoles of 2023 for sure.
While the first variant of the Nintendo Switch was good, the OLED version made some notable improvements. It has a large 7-inch screen and a beautiful OLED panel to play the latest games in HD even when traveling. The set-top box also costs much less than its rivals from Sony and Microsoft. However, processing power is limited and you really pay more for portability.
However, it still has a great library of games, both exclusive to Nintendo and others. Plus, with the upgraded design and speakers from the original Nintendo Switch, this hybrid console is a must-buy if you’re a frequent traveler.
Unfortunately, the console does not come with a 4K upgrade. Instead, you’ll have to play games at 720p, which is a little disappointing given the price you’re paying.
pros
- Hybrid console with docking capability
- OLED screen is crisp and bright
- Full access to the Nintendo game library.
Minuses
- Only 720p resolutions are supported
Check on Amazon | Buy it on nintendo.com
4. Xbox Series S – Affordable
The Sony PlayStation 5 and Microsoft Xbox Series X are the two leading consoles on the market right now. However, they are not cheap. If you’re looking to spend less without sacrificing too much experience, you should look into the Xbox Series S. Basically, it’s a cheaper version of the Xbox Series X, but it has limited drive capacity and doesn’t support 4K. permission.
However, given the price of the console, you won’t have too many complaints. Plus, you’ll benefit from Xbox Game Pass because you can run any game that Xbox Series X is designed for on the console, so you won’t miss out on any games, exclusives, or anything else.
While you won’t be able to play these games at 4K, you’ll get the benefit of 1440p resolution, which works well if you have a cheaper monitor or smart TV. What’s more, with full access to the Xbox console for streaming apps and expandable storage, you can’t ask for more at this price point. Overall, the Xbox Series S is rightfully one of the best consoles of 2023 on a budget!
pros
- The cheapest console with next-generation capabilities
- Full access to the Xbox Game Pass library
- Can do everything the Xbox Series X can do
Minuses
- Base storage is limited
- Can’t play 4K games
Check on Amazon | Buy on xbox.com
5. Steam Deck – for everything related to Steam
When it comes to games, Valve and Steam are some of the biggest names in the industry. Given Valve’s history, it was only a matter of time before they released their own game console. In early 2022, Valve introduced its Steam Deck portable game console.
So, what makes this device different from other handheld game consoles on the market? Steam Deck is primarily aimed at PC gamers who want a portable option. Instead of carrying their entire gaming system around with them, they will be able to access their Steam games directly through the Steam Deck.
What’s more, whether you’re buying the basic version or the high-end version, Steam Deck offers great hardware across all price ranges. You can play games like Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Elden Ring and even The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt. These games were only available on PC and consoles until Steam Deck was released. Now, instead of being locked into the limitations of your gaming PC, you can enjoy these games at your fingertips, no matter where you are.
Steam Deck is not only very reliable, but also contains a huge library of proven games. You don’t have to wait for console games to be ported to your smartphone or PC to play on your console. All in all, you’re paying for superior portability, superior hardware, and an extensive collection of games.
However, he has a few quirks. Steam Deck takes time to load games, and battery life is far from ideal.
pros
- Delivers the power of a gaming PC in a portable form factor
- All major games verified by Steam are available on the console.
- Super design and aesthetics
Minuses
- Battery life could be much better
6. Nintendo Switch is the best option for the whole family
I have already talked about the Nintendo Switch OLED here, which is a more expensive version of the original Nintendo Switch. While many OLED features are already present on the Nintendo Switch, the console is a decent choice if you want to play games with your family.
This hybrid console can be connected to a TV or used as a portable gaming device. No matter how you use it, it has a good collection of family games that you can also play with your kids. On top of that, there are plenty of exclusive console games that you can access as well as third-party integrations.
Since the Switch is an older console, having been around for over six years, its age is starting to show in terms of hardware. However, you’ll still have plenty of visually stunning games to play with like Bayonetta 3. Plus, the collection of family-friendly games on this console is second to none. Basically, this console provides a complete gaming experience for the whole family.
One of the main issues with the Nintendo Switch at the moment is that while it’s more accessible, it’s also pretty dated. So it’s only a matter of time before games stop supporting the Switch console.
pros
- Decent collection of games for the whole family
- Direct access to exclusive Nintendo games
- Can be docked to a TV for full console use
Minuses
- Legacy equipment
7. PlayStation 4 Pro is still a beast
Want to experience what Sony brings to the PlayStation platform without breaking the bank? If so, you should check out the PlayStation 4 Pro. Although it is one of the oldest consoles on the list, it offers some great games and still has good visual performance.
The PlayStation 4 Pro was released back in 2016 and is still gaining momentum. Sure, it doesn’t support next-gen graphics and games, but it’s quite affordable and offers a great library of games. This has a lot to do with PlayStation Plus support. Moreover, not every developer focuses exclusively on the next generation market. Some developers still provide significant support for previous generation consoles.
The main question here is this: is it worth buying a PlayStation 4 Pro in 2023? The simple answer is yes, if you want access to PlayStation exclusive games but don’t want to spend a large amount of money on the PlayStation 5. It’s a solid old beast that can still provide a decent price today, making it one of the best game consoles of 2023.
Of course, you won’t get access to any next-gen games or features. So when buying, you need to be on the lookout. Also, you can read my article on how to play PS5 or PS4 games with Remote Play for a PlayStation-like experience on iPhone.
pros
- Decent price compared to PlayStation 5
- Provides access to exclusive Sony games through PlayStation Plus.
- Supports games at 4K resolution.
Minuses
- Does not support next generation games or technologies.
8. Nintendo Switch Lite is the most portable gaming console
For the last entry on this list of the best game consoles of 2023, you have the Nintendo Switch Lite. How is this device different from its older brothers and sisters? Simply put, this is a purely portable gaming device and cannot be connected to a TV. Also, there are no Nintendo Joy-Cons on the side. Instead, the control circuitry is securely wrapped in the body of the device.
In addition, the Nintendo Switch has a smaller form factor which makes it much lighter. It’s also perfect for kids or people with small hands, as you won’t have any trouble holding the console for long periods of time. Switch Lite still gives you full access to the Nintendo game library, so you won’t have any game compatibility issues.
Finally, the overall design of the Nintendo Switch Lite provides a variety of colors. The device is available in a variety of interesting colors to choose from, allowing you to personalize it a bit. Considering the features and price at which this console is available, you are getting one of the best gaming consoles at an absolutely bargain price.
However, the lack of docking capability can be a hindrance for those who want a larger screen.
pros
- Very light and portable due to its design
- Provides full access to the Nintendo game library.
- Available in multiple colors
Minuses
- No TV dock support
- The maximum supported resolution is 720p.
That’s all!
In this list, I’ve covered all the major game consoles available today, along with their pros and cons. This should give you enough information when you are looking for a new gaming system. We hope this list of the best gaming consoles of 2023 covers everything you need to know. If you have more questions, let me know in the comments section below!