I’ve been gaming for years and have tested consoles across all generations. If you’re anything like me, choosing a new gaming console that matches your style can feel a little overwhelming. So I put together this guide to break things down in a simple and honest way -no tech jargon or overload.
In this article, you’ll learn about the six best gaming consoles of 2025, what makes each one awesome (or not so awesome), and who they’re really for. I’ll walk you through the features that actually matter -graphics, game library, performance, and even portability- so you can make the right choice for you.
Best 6 Gaming Consoles in 2025
If you are a gamer and you’re looking for the best gaming console you can use, these 6 consoles should be part of your options:
- PlayStation 5 Pro
- Xbox Series X
- Steam Deck
- Nintendo Switch OLED
- Xbox Series S
- ASUS ROG Ally X
| Console | Performance (Graphics & Speed) | Storage | Portability | Price Range | Online Services |
| PS5 Pro | Highest (4K, smooth frame rate) | 2TB SSD + expandable | No | $649+ | PS Plus ($10–$18/mo) |
| Xbox Series X | High (4K, very smooth) | 1TB SSD + expandable | No | $499 | Game Pass Ultimate ($17/mo) |
| Steam Deck microSD | Medium (good for handheld) | 256GB–1TB + | Yes | $399–$649 | None required (Steam optional) |
| Nintendo Switch OLED | Medium (best for Nintendo games) | 64GB + microSD | Yes | $349 | Switch Online ($20–$50/yr) |
| Xbox Series S | Good (1080p–1440p) | 512GB + expandable | No | $299 | Game Pass Ultimate ($17/mo) |
| ROG Ally X | Very High (for a handheld) | 1TB SSD + microSD | Yes | $799 | None required (runs Windows) |
PlayStation 5 Pro
Starting my list is the PlayStation 5 Pro, one of the most powerful consoles you can get in 2025. It’s a step up from the regular PS5, and you’ll really notice the difference when you’re playing heavy games like Spider-Man 2 or Call of Duty. It plays games in 4K, which means everything looks extra sharp and realistic.
PlayStation 5 Pro comes with 2 terabytes of storage, which is a fancy way of saying it can hold a lot of games -around 40 to 50, depending on the size. And if you ever run out of space, you can add more by popping in an extra SSD. The price usually sits around $699, but you might catch deals around $649. There’s also a version with a disc drive you can add for about $79 if you like buying physical game discs.
To play online, you’ll need PlayStation Plus, which starts at about $80 per year. It also gives you free games every month and access to online multiplayer. But with a PlayStation gift card, you can buy games and in-game purchases on the PS5. Â
The DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers create immersive experiences in games like Astro’s Playroom and Returnal, where you can feel raindrops and weapon recoil with unprecedented realism.
SpecsÂ
- CPU: 8-core AMD Zen 2 (same as PS5, but optimized for better performance)
- GPU: Custom RDNA 3, around 33.5 teraflopsÂ
- Internal Storage: 2TB SSDÂ
- Memory (RAM): 16GB GDDR6
- Expandable Storage: M.2 NVMe SSDÂ
Why you might want it:
- Best graphics and speed out of all PlayStations
- Tons of storage, and you can expand it
- Big library of games, old and new
- Good for serious and long-term gamers
Why you might not:
- It’s one of the most expensive consoles
- You have to pay extra if you want to use game discs
Xbox Series X
The Xbox Series X is still one of the best consoles you can get in 2025. It gives you access to a huge library of games, most of which play in 4K with up to 120 frames per second (FPS). Its custom AMD Zen 2 processor and RDNA 2 GPU ensure lightning-fast performance.
It comes with 1TB of internal storage, which is good for around 20–25 modern games. If you run out of space (which happens pretty fast these days), you can plug in an expansion card or use an external hard drive. The price usually sits around $499, but there are often bundle deals with popular games or Xbox controllers.
To play online, you’ll want Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. It costs about $17 a month and gives you access to tons of games, online multiplayer, cloud gaming, and even EA Play. It’s honestly one of the best deals out there if you play a lot of games.
Specs:
- CPU: 8-core AMD Zen 2
- GPU: Custom RDNA 2, 12 teraflops
- Internal Storage: 1TB SSD
- Memory (RAM): 16GB GDDR6
- Expandable Storage: 1TB Storage Expansion Card or external drives
Why you might want it:
- Powerful performance for 4K gaming
- Game Pass gives you access to tons of games
- Backward compatible with older Xbox games
- Great for online multiplayer
Why you might not:
- 1TB fills up quickly with large games
- Expansion storage can be pricey
- Bulky design, not so portable
Steam Deck
The Steam Deck is perfect if you want a console that you can take anywhere. It’s kind of like a Nintendo Switch, but it plays PC games from Steam and other platforms. You can use it on the go or plug it into a monitor and play like a regular console. In 2025, the Steam Deck is still super popular, especially the newer OLED model, which has a brighter screen and longer battery life.
There are different storage options: 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. The 512GB and 1TB models have faster loading times and better screens, so if you can afford it, go for one of those. Prices start around $399 and go up to about $649. You can also add a microSD card if you need more space, which is super easy to do.
There’s no monthly subscription needed to play games, but you can get Steam sales and bundles that make games cheaper. Having a Steam gift card makes using the Steam deck more seamless. You can use it to purchase games and other in-game accessories.
Specs:
- CPU: Custom AMD APU (Zen 2, 4-core)
- GPU: AMD RDNA 2 (1.6 teraflops)
- Internal Storage: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB (SSD)
- Memory (RAM): 16GB LPDDR5
- Expandable Storage: MicroSD card slot
Why you might want it:
- Portable and powerful for a handheld
- Great for PC gamers on the go
- No subscription needed to play
- Works like a mini PC
Why you might not:
- Battery drains fast with demanding games
- Smaller screen might not be for everyone
Nintendo Switch OLED
The Nintendo Switch OLED is not the most powerful console on this list, but it makes up for that with a super fun library of games like Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Super Smash Bros, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. The OLED screen is brighter and more colorful than the original Switch, which makes handheld gaming look amazing.
The Switch OLED comes with 64GB of internal storage -not a lot, but enough to get you started. You’ll probably want to add a microSD card later on, especially if you download a lot of digital games. The console usually costs around $349, and you can find bundles that include games like Mario Kart or Animal Crossing for a bit more.
To play online and get access to retro games from NES, SNES, and more, you’ll need Nintendo Switch Online. It’s pretty affordable -just $20 per year for the basic plan or $50 for the Expansion Pack, which includes extra games and DLC.
Specs:
- CPU: NVIDIA Custom Tegra X1
- GPU: Integrated NVIDIA graphics
- Internal Storage: 64GB
- Memory (RAM): 4GB
- Expandable Storage: MicroSD card slot
Why You Might Want It:
- Huge library of exclusive Nintendo games
- Can be played handheld, docked to a TV, or tabletop
- Bright OLED screen makes games pop
- Great for families or casual gamers
Why You Might Not:
- Not as powerful as Xbox or PlayStation
- Small internal storage
- Online features aren’t as advanced as other consoles
Xbox Series S
The Xbox Series S is a solid choice if you want next-gen gaming without spending a ton of money. It’s the smaller, all-digital sibling of the Series X. That means it doesn’t use discs -everything is downloaded- and it’s not quite as powerful, but it still plays all the same games. For anyone on a budget, it’s a great way to jump into the Xbox world.
It comes with 512GB of storage, which can fill up quickly with bigger games, but you can expand it using the same storage card the Series X uses. It’s lightweight, quiet, and fits just about anywhere. The price is around $299, and you’ll sometimes find it bundled with games like Fortnite or Rocket League at no extra cost.
Just like the Series X, it works with Xbox Game Pass, which is $17/month for the Ultimate version. That gives you online multiplayer, access to hundreds of games, cloud streaming, and more. With an Xbox gift card, you can subscribe to Xbox Pass or buy games from the Microsoft store.
Specs:
- CPU: 8-core AMD Zen 2
- GPU: Custom RDNA 2 (4 teraflops)
- Internal Storage: 512GB SSD
- Memory (RAM): 10GB GDDR6
- Expandable Storage: Xbox Expansion Card or external drives
Why you might want it:
- Most affordable next-gen console
- Plays all the same games as the Series X
- Works great with Game Pass
- Compact and easy to set up anywhere
Why you might not:
- No disc drive; digital-only
- Less storage and power than other consoles
- Lower resolution for some games (not true 4K)
ASUS ROG Ally X
The ASUS ROG Ally X is a powerful handheld gaming console that’s perfect if you want something portable but still strong enough to play full PC games. It runs Windows, which means you can play games from Steam, Xbox Game Pass, Epic Games Store, and more. It’s kind of like a mini gaming laptop you can carry around, and the 2025 model comes with big improvements over the original.
This new version includes a larger battery for longer play time, better cooling, and upgraded memory. You also get 1TB of internal storage, which is plenty of space for big games like Cyberpunk 2077 or Elden Ring. If you need even more space, there’s a microSD slot for easy expansion. The price is expected to be around $799, making it one of the priciest handhelds, but also one of the most powerful.
Since it runs Windows, there’s no subscription required to play, but you can subscribe to services like Xbox Game Pass for PC (around $10/month) to access a huge library of games.Â
Specs:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme (8-core)
- GPU: AMD RDNA 3 graphics
- Internal Storage: 1TB SSD
- Memory (RAM): 24GB LPDDR5X
- Expandable Storage: MicroSD card slot
Why you might want it:
- Powerful enough to run full PC games
- Bright display and responsive controls
- Portable and great for travel
- Works with multiple game stores and platforms
Why you might not:
- Higher price than most consoles
- Battery life depends on the game (can be short)
- Windows setup can feel a bit complicated at first
Factors to Consider When Picking a Gaming Console
Choosing the right gaming console depends on what you care most about. Some people want the best graphics, while others just want something fun and easy to play with friends. Here are a few things to think about before you decide:
What Kinds of Games Do You Like?
This is a big one. If you’re into big, cinematic adventures like Spider-Man 2 or Horizon Forbidden West, the PlayStation 5 Pro is a great choice. But if you’re more into family-friendly games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or Animal Crossing, then the Nintendo Switch OLED is probably a better fit. And if you like indie games, strategy games, or older PC titles, you might love the Steam Deck or ASUS ROG Ally X.
Portability – Do You Want to Game on the Go?
If you travel or like to play games while lying in bed, you’ll want something portable. The Steam Deck, ROG Ally X, and Switch OLED are all handheld and great for gaming anywhere. Consoles like the PlayStation 5 Pro and Xbox Series X are built for home setups, so they’re better if you mostly play on a big screen.
Performance and Graphics
If graphics and speed matter to you, like playing Call of Duty or Starfield in crisp 4K, then go for something powerful like the PS5 Pro or Xbox Series X. These consoles are built to handle big games at high quality without lag. The Xbox Series S still plays the same games, but with slightly lower resolution and less power.
Game Library and Backward Compatibility
 Do you already own games from older consoles? The Xbox Series X/S lets you play a ton of Xbox One and Xbox 360 games. The PS5 Pro plays most PS4 games too. Meanwhile, the Steam Deck and ROG Ally X give you access to your PC game libraries, so if you already use Steam or Game Pass, that’s a big bonus.
Online Services and Subscriptions
 If you want to play online or get access to extra games, consider the subscriptions.
- PlayStation Plus gives you monthly games and online multiplayer.
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate gives you tons of games, including Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5, for one monthly fee.
- Nintendo Switch Online is cheaper, and lets you play online and access older games like Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda.
- Steam Deck and ROG Ally X don’t require a subscription, but you can use Game Pass or buy games on Steam whenever you want.
Budget
Let’s be real, price matters. The Xbox Series S is the most budget-friendly at around $299. The Switch OLED is in the middle at $349. On the higher end, you’ve got the PS5 Pro ($649+), Xbox Series X ($499), and ROG Ally X ($799). Keep in mind, you might need to buy extras like storage or a subscription, depending on the console.
FAQ: Common Questions About Gaming Consoles
- Which console has the best graphics?
If you’re all about high-end visuals, the PlayStation 5 Pro takes the lead. It’s the most powerful console on this list, offering sharper 4K resolution and smoother frame rates. The Xbox Series X is also excellent, as it delivers great graphics and runs games beautifully.
- Is the PS5 or Xbox Series X better for multiplayer gaming?
Both are great for online multiplayer, but it depends on your game preferences. The Xbox Series X, paired with Game Pass Ultimate, gives you a huge variety of multiplayer games right away, like Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5. The PS5 also has solid multiplayer titles, but Xbox might offer better value if you’re mostly in it for online gaming.
- Which gaming console offers the best value for money?
The Xbox Series S gives you the most bang for your buck. It’s affordable, plays the same games as the Series X, and works great with Game Pass. If you prefer portability, the Steam Deck is also a great value, especially if you already have games on Steam.
- What’s the best handheld console in 2025?
If you want something portable, the Steam Deck is a top pick for casual and indie gaming. But if you want more power and PC-level performance in your hands, the ASUS ROG Ally X is the strongest handheld on this list. It can run big titles like Cyberpunk 2077 on the go.
- Can I play older games on these consoles?
Yes! The Xbox Series X and S have excellent backward compatibility -they play thousands of older Xbox games. The PS5 Pro can play most PS4 games too. And if you’re on the Steam Deck or ROG Ally X, you can download older PC games from Steam, Epic, or even emulators.
Final Thoughts: Which Console Is Right for You?
At the end of the day, the best gaming console really depends on you -your budget, your favorite types of games, and how you like to play. If you want top-tier graphics and exclusive games, the PlayStation 5 Pro is hard to beat. For a great all-around experience and massive game library, the Xbox Series X (or Series S if you’re on a budget) is a solid win.Â
Prefer something portable? The Steam Deck is easy to travel with, while the ROG Ally X is like having a gaming laptop in your hands. And of course, the Nintendo Switch OLED is perfect for family-friendly fun.
