When searching for the best next-gen gaming consoles, the main challenge lies in balancing performance, price, and features. The PlayStation 5 Digital Edition stands out for its powerful hardware and exclusive game library, making it the top overall pick. Meanwhile, the Xbox Series X offers unmatched raw power for those seeking maximum performance, and the Xbox Series S provides a budget-friendly entry point with solid features. Each console presents tradeoffs—mainly between cost, storage, and access to exclusive titles—that influence the best choice for different gamers. Continue reading to see a detailed comparison that helps you find the perfect next-gen console for your needs.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The PlayStation 5 offers the best exclusive games and a sleek design but comes at a higher price point.
- Xbox Series X is the most powerful console, ideal for gamers craving maximum performance and future-proofing.
- The Series S provides a compelling balance of affordability and solid performance, though with less storage and power.
- Bundles and refurbished options can save money but might involve tradeoffs in warranty or included accessories.
- Storage capacity remains a key consideration; opting for larger SSDs can enhance gaming convenience and reduce load times.
| Xbox Series S 512GB All-Digital Gaming Console with Wireless Controller |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Next-Gen Gaming | Storage: 512GB SSD | CPU: 8 cores @ 3.6 GHz (3.4 GHz w/SMT) Custom Zen 2 | GPU: 4 TFLOPS, 20 CUs @1.565 GHz Custom RDNA 2 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| PlayStation 5 Digital Edition Gaming Console with Wireless Controller |  | Best for Cutting-Edge Graphics and Future-Proofing | CPU: x86-64 AMD Ryzen Zen 8 Cores / 16 Threads at 3.5GHz | GPU: AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based graphics engine | Memory: 16GB GDDR6 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Xbox Series S Starter Bundle with 512GB SSD and 3-Month Game Pass Ultimate |  | Best for Newcomers and Value Seekers | Storage: 512GB SSD | Included: Xbox Series S, wireless controller, HDMI and power cables, 3-month Game Pass | Max Resolution: up to 120 FPS | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Xbox Series X 1TB Gaming Console with Wireless Controller |  | Best for Enthusiasts Seeking True 4K and High Storage | Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD | Memory: 16GB GDDR6 | Graphics Architecture: RDNA 2 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Microsoft Xbox Series S Console – 512GB (Refurbished) |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Second-Hand Buyers | Storage: 512GB | Condition: Refurbished | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown | |
| PlayStation 5 Digital Edition 825GB – Fortnite Flowering Chaos Bundle |  | Best Compact Design for Digital-Only Gamers | Storage: 825GB | Design: Slim | Includes: Fortnite cosmetics and 1,000 V-Bucks | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sony PlayStation 5 PS5 Disc Version Gaming Console with 4K Blu-ray, 16GB RAM, 825GB SSD, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, 8K Output |  | Best High-End Performance with 8K Support | CPU: x86-64 AMD Ryzen Zen 8 Cores / 16 Threads at 3.5GHz | GPU: AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based graphics engine | Memory: 16GB GDDR6 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Xbox Series S – All Digital Gaming Console – 1TB SSD – Includes Wireless Controller |  | Best Budget-Friendly Next-Gen Console with High Frame Rates | Storage: 1TB SSD | Frame Rate: Up to 120 FPS | Includes: Wireless Controller, HDMI cable, power cable, two AA batteries | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Xbox Series X Gaming Console – 1TB SSD with Wireless Controller |  | Best Powerhouse for Serious 4K Gaming | Storage: 1TB SSD | Resolution: 4K | Frame Rate: 120 FPS | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| next-gen gaming console | Storage |
|---|---|
| Xbox Series S 512GB All-Digita | 512GB SSD |
| PlayStation 5 Digital Edition | 825GB SSD |
| Xbox Series S Starter Bundle w | 512GB SSD |
| Xbox Series X 1TB Gaming Conso | 1TB NVMe SSD |
| Microsoft Xbox Series S Consol | 512GB |
| PlayStation 5 Digital Edition | 825GB |
| Sony PlayStation 5 PS5 Disc Ve | 825GB SSD |
| Xbox Series S | 1TB SSD |
| Xbox Series X Gaming Console | 1TB SSD |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Xbox Series S 512GB All-Digital Gaming Console with Wireless Controller
The Xbox Series S stands out as the best choice for gamers seeking a next-gen experience without breaking the bank. Its high-performance hardware supports up to 120 FPS and streaming at 1440p, making it ideal for fast-paced titles. Compared with the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition, it offers a more affordable price point but sacrifices some resolution and internal storage. The 512GB SSD ensures quick load times, yet the limited storage can fill quickly with large games, a notable tradeoff. Its digital-only design simplifies setup but excludes physical media, which might be a drawback for collectors. Overall, this console is perfect for those prioritizing speed, affordability, and digital access over storage capacity or physical discs.
Pros:- Supports high-performance gaming with up to 120 FPS
- Includes a wireless controller and HDMI cable for easy setup
- Fast 512GB SSD for quick load times
Cons:- Limited internal storage for large game libraries
- No disc drive, so physical media isn’t supported
Best for: Gamers on a budget who primarily download games and want high FPS performance.
Not ideal for: Players with large game libraries or collectors who prefer physical discs and more internal storage.
- Storage:512GB SSD
- CPU:8 cores @ 3.6 GHz (3.4 GHz w/SMT) Custom Zen 2
- GPU:4 TFLOPS, 20 CUs @1.565 GHz Custom RDNA 2
- Memory:10GB GDDR6
- Included Accessories:Wireless Controller, High Speed HDMI cable
- Gaming Resolution:1440p
Our verdict“This console suits budget-conscious gamers who prioritize speed and digital gaming over storage capacity.”
PlayStation 5 Digital Edition Gaming Console with Wireless Controller
The PlayStation 5 Digital Edition excels in delivering top-tier graphics with support for 8K output and 4K gaming at 120Hz, making it the best pick for visual fidelity. Its 825GB SSD offers fast load times, but compared to the Xbox Series X, its storage is more limited, which could be restrictive for large game downloads. The console’s advanced AMD Ryzen Zen CPU and RDNA 2 GPU ensure smooth performance, yet the price is higher, reflecting its premium features. The absence of a disc drive positions it as ideal for digital-only users but makes it unsuitable for those who prefer physical media. This makes it ideal for gamers who want the latest technology and high-resolution gaming but are willing to pay a premium for it.
Pros:- Supports 8K output and 4K at 120Hz for stunning visuals
- Fast SSD reduces load times significantly
- Includes a DualSense wireless controller
Cons:- Limited storage capacity compared to some competitors
- Digital-only design excludes physical media
Best for: Hardcore gamers focused on cutting-edge graphics and seamless performance with digital-only access.
Not ideal for: Players who prefer physical discs or need extensive storage for large game collections.
- CPU:x86-64 AMD Ryzen Zen 8 Cores / 16 Threads at 3.5GHz
- GPU:AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based graphics engine
- Memory:16GB GDDR6
- Storage:825GB SSD
- Display Output:8K, 4K at 120Hz
- Connectivity:Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1
Our verdict“Best suited for gamers wanting the latest in visual technology and digital convenience, despite higher costs and storage limitations.”
Xbox Series S Starter Bundle with 512GB SSD and 3-Month Game Pass Ultimate
This Xbox Series S Starter Bundle makes a compelling case for new gamers or those upgrading on a budget. The included 3-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate grants access to hundreds of titles, including recent hits like Starfield and Forza Motorsport, offering incredible value. Its compact, all-digital design is perfect for small spaces and reduces clutter, but the 512GB storage can fill quickly with large downloads, similar to the Xbox Series S. While it supports up to 120 FPS and quick load times due to its SSD, the absence of a disc drive limits physical media use. Overall, this bundle provides an accessible entry point into modern gaming, especially for those who value game access and space efficiency.
Pros:- Includes 3 months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for extensive game access
- Compact design saves space and reduces clutter
- High-quality graphics up to 120 FPS with fast SSD
Cons:- Limited internal storage may require external solutions
- No physical disc support
Best for: New gamers or families looking for an affordable, all-digital console with a subscription bundled in.
Not ideal for: Hardcore gamers with large collections or those who prefer physical discs for resale or collection purposes.
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Included:Xbox Series S, wireless controller, HDMI and power cables, 3-month Game Pass
- Max Resolution:up to 120 FPS
- Performance:Fast load times with Xbox Velocity Architecture
Our verdict“Ideal for new entrants into gaming who want a cost-effective, space-saving console with a vast game library.”
Xbox Series X 1TB Gaming Console with Wireless Controller
The Xbox Series X appeals to players who demand true 4K gaming with high fidelity visuals, thanks to its 1TB NVMe SSD and support for 8K HDR. Compared to the Series S, it offers twice the internal storage and a more powerful GPU, making it suitable for large game libraries and demanding titles. The high price and larger size are tradeoffs, but the support for backward compatibility and a broad game library justify the investment for serious gamers. The included wireless controller and HDMI cable make setup straightforward. If premium graphics and ample storage are priorities, the Series X clearly leads, though it might be overkill for more casual players or those on a tight budget.
Pros:- Supports true 4K gaming at high frame rates
- Large 1TB NVMe SSD enables extensive game storage
- Backward compatibility with thousands of Xbox games
Cons:- Higher price point may limit accessibility
- Size demands ample space in entertainment setups
Best for: Hardcore gamers who want premium 4K graphics, large storage, and backward compatibility.
Not ideal for: Casual players or those with space constraints, given the size and higher cost.
- Storage:1TB NVMe SSD
- Memory:16GB GDDR6
- Graphics Architecture:RDNA 2
- Performance:Up to 120 FPS
- Resolution:True 4K
- Optical Drive:4K UHD Blu-Ray
Our verdict“Designed for enthusiasts who prioritize advanced graphics, storage capacity, and backward compatibility, despite the higher price.”
Microsoft Xbox Series S Console – 512GB (Refurbished)
The Refurbished Xbox Series S offers a budget-friendly way to access next-gen gaming, with the advantage of a lower price. It shares many core features with the new Series S, including 512GB SSD and support for 120 FPS, but the refurbished condition introduces some uncertainty regarding durability and longevity. It’s a suitable option for casual gamers or those testing the waters without a large upfront investment, especially since it supports a wide array of entertainment apps and Xbox Live multiplayer. Still, limited storage remains a concern, and buying refurbished carries inherent risks compared to brand-new units. This makes it a practical choice for cost-sensitive buyers who are comfortable with used electronics.
Pros:- Access to a wide range of entertainment apps
- Includes over 100 games with a trial of Xbox Game Pass
- Supports 4K Blu-ray playback and streaming
Cons:- Refurbished condition might affect durability
- Limited internal storage compared to new models
Best for: Casual gamers or budget shoppers interested in next-gen features at a lower cost.
Not ideal for: Players seeking maximum reliability and new hardware, or those with extensive game libraries requiring more storage.
- Storage:512GB
- Condition:Refurbished
Our verdict“A solid choice for casual or cost-conscious users wanting access to current-gen gaming at a lower price point, with some risks due to refurbishment.”
PlayStation 5 Digital Edition 825GB – Fortnite Flowering Chaos Bundle
This PlayStation 5 Digital Edition stands out for its sleek, space-saving design, making it ideal for those who want next-gen gaming without taking up much room. Compared with the Xbox Series S, it offers a more refined aesthetic, though it sacrifices the larger storage capacity and the flexibility of disc-based games. Its inclusion of exclusive Fortnite cosmetics and V-Bucks adds value for fans of the game, but the 825GB storage could fill up quickly with modern titles. The absence of a disc drive means it’s unsuitable for players who still collect physical games or prefer disk-based media. It’s best suited for digital-only gamers who prioritize aesthetics and a compact footprint, but not for those with extensive physical game libraries or larger storage needs.
Pros:- Sleek and compact console design
- Includes exclusive Fortnite cosmetics and V-Bucks
- Powerful gaming performance for digital titles
Cons:- Limited storage compared to larger models
- No disc drive limits physical game options
Best for: Digital-only gamers who want a stylish, space-efficient console for exclusive Fortnite content.
Not ideal for: Players with large game collections or who prefer physical discs, as this model lacks a disc drive and limited storage.
- Storage:825GB
- Design:Slim
- Includes:Fortnite cosmetics and 1,000 V-Bucks
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for digital-only players seeking a stylish, space-saving console with exclusive content.”
Sony PlayStation 5 PS5 Disc Version Gaming Console with 4K Blu-ray, 16GB RAM, 825GB SSD, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, 8K Output
The PS5 Disc Version offers cutting-edge hardware with an AMD Ryzen Zen 8-core CPU, AMD Radeon RDNA 2 GPU, and 16GB of GDDR6 RAM, making it superior for those who want the highest graphical fidelity and future-proofing. Its support for 8K output and 120Hz refresh rates eclipses the capabilities of the Xbox Series S, making it ideal for premium home theater setups. However, its 825GB SSD storage is limited, especially for larger game libraries, which may necessitate external expansion. The inclusion of a disc drive means users can enjoy physical copies, but it also makes the console larger and heavier. This model is best for dedicated gamers who prioritize performance, physical media, and high-resolution gaming, but less so for casual players or those with limited space.
Pros:- Powerful hardware with fast SSD
- Supports 8K and 4K gaming at 120Hz
- Includes all necessary cables and accessories
Cons:- Limited storage capacity for modern titles
- Disc drive adds size and weight
Best for: Enthusiasts seeking the best graphics, physical media support, and future-proof 8K capabilities.
Not ideal for: Casual gamers or those on a tight budget, since the premium features come with a higher cost and limited storage capacity.
- CPU:x86-64 AMD Ryzen Zen 8 Cores / 16 Threads at 3.5GHz
- GPU:AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based graphics engine
- Memory:16GB GDDR6
- Storage:825GB SSD
- Connectivity:Ethernet, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1
- Output:8K, 4K at 120Hz
Our verdict“This is the ideal choice for serious gamers who want top-tier performance and physical media support in a high-end console.”
Xbox Series S – All Digital Gaming Console – 1TB SSD – Includes Wireless Controller
The Xbox Series S offers a compelling mix of affordability and performance, supporting up to 120 FPS and boasting a 1TB NVMe SSD for quick load times. Its compact design makes it an excellent choice for gamers with limited space, and its extensive backward compatibility broadens the game library far beyond its size. Compared to the Xbox Series X, it sacrifices raw power and 4K resolution support, focusing instead on sharp 1440p gaming with high frame rates. Since it’s all-digital, it’s best for gamers who prefer digital downloads and aren’t concerned about physical discs. The main drawback is the reliance on separate purchases for Xbox Game Pass, which can add to overall costs. It’s perfect for casual gamers or those on a budget wanting next-gen features without the premium price.
Pros:- Compact and sleek design
- Supports up to 120 FPS for smooth gameplay
- Fast load times with 1TB SSD
- Backward compatibility across multiple Xbox generations
Cons:- Requires separate purchase of Xbox Game Pass
- All-digital, no disc drive
Best for: Budget-conscious gamers who prioritize high frame rates and a compact design for digital gaming.
Not ideal for: Players who prefer physical disks or want 4K resolution as a standard, as this model emphasizes digital, lower-resolution gaming.
- Storage:1TB SSD
- Frame Rate:Up to 120 FPS
- Includes:Wireless Controller, HDMI cable, power cable, two AA batteries
Our verdict“This console delivers next-gen gaming at a budget-friendly price, best for digital gamers who value speed and space efficiency.”
Xbox Series X Gaming Console – 1TB SSD with Wireless Controller
The Xbox Series X stands out for its formidable 12 teraflops of processing power, making it the clear choice for gamers seeking true 4K gaming at up to 120 FPS. Its Velocity Architecture and 1TB SSD deliver lightning-fast load times that outpace the Series S and even many gaming PCs. Compared to the PlayStation 5, it offers a more consistent frame rate for some titles and broader backward compatibility, though both excel in performance. As a premium option, the Series X is more expensive, and the cost of Xbox Game Pass can add up, but it provides a robust ecosystem for dedicated players. Its size and price point make it less suitable for casual or space-constrained setups, but it’s unmatched in raw power and versatility for serious gaming enthusiasts.
Pros:- Exceptional processing power with 12 teraflops
- Supports 4K gaming at high frame rates
- Fast load times with custom SSD
- Excellent backward compatibility
Cons:- Higher price point
- Additional subscription costs for Xbox Game Pass
Best for: Hardcore gamers who want the best performance and the broadest game library across generations.
Not ideal for: Casual players or those with limited space, as this console is large and comes at a higher cost without the budget-friendly focus of the Series S.
- Storage:1TB SSD
- Resolution:4K
- Frame Rate:120 FPS
- Includes:Wireless Controller, HDMI cable, power cable, 2 AA batteries
Our verdict“This is the go-to for players who demand top-tier performance and a comprehensive gaming ecosystem, despite its larger size and cost.”
How We Picked
These consoles were evaluated based on multiple factors including raw performance, build quality, price-to-value ratio, storage options, and access to exclusive titles. We also considered usability features like backward compatibility, interface responsiveness, and future-proofing potential. The ranking reflects a combination of overall capabilities and how well each console caters to different types of gamers—whether they prioritize performance, affordability, or exclusive content. Consoles that offered a clear balance of these factors, with fewer compromises, ranked higher, while those with significant limitations or high costs relative to features were placed lower.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Next-gen Gaming Consoles
Choosing the right next-gen gaming console involves several key considerations beyond just hardware specs. Understanding your gaming preferences, budget, and how you intend to use the console helps narrow down the options. Here are some factors to keep in mind before making a decision.Performance and Hardware Power
Performance is fundamental for smooth gameplay and future-proofing. The Xbox Series X leads this category with its high-end GPU and CPU, delivering superior graphics and faster load times. The PlayStation 5 also offers comparable performance with a slightly different architecture optimized for exclusive titles. The Series S, while less powerful, still provides solid performance at a lower price, making it suitable for casual gamers or those who don’t prioritize 4K gaming.
Price and Value
Price remains a key factor, especially as next-gen consoles can vary significantly in cost. The Series S is the most budget-friendly, but it sacrifices some storage and processing power. The PlayStation 5 Digital Edition offers a middle ground with high performance but at a premium. Bundles and refurbished models can lower costs but may come with limited warranties or missing accessories. Weighing price against features helps identify the best value for your specific gaming habits.
Storage Capacity
Storage is often overlooked but crucial for modern games that demand large installs. The standard SSD sizes range from 512GB to 1TB, with the larger capacity models offering more convenience. Upgrading storage later can be costly, so selecting a console with sufficient built-in space aligns better with long-term use. Consider your game library size and whether cloud or external storage options fit your needs.
Exclusive Games and Ecosystem
Exclusive titles heavily influence the value of a console. PlayStation 5 boasts popular exclusives like Horizon Forbidden West and Ratchet & Clank, making it appealing for fans of Sony’s ecosystem. Xbox Series X/S subscribers benefit from Game Pass, providing access to a vast library of games for a monthly fee. Decide whether your priority is exclusive content or a broad gaming subscription model to choose accordingly.
Compatibility and Future-Proofing
Backward compatibility with previous generation games and accessories adds value to a purchase. Both Sony and Microsoft have strong backward compatibility features, but the extent varies. Future-proofing also involves considering upcoming game releases, hardware updates, and whether the console supports features like 8K output or ray tracing. Investing in a more powerful or versatile model can extend the lifespan of your gaming setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy a digital-only console or one with a disc drive?
Choosing between digital-only and disc-enabled consoles depends on your gaming habits and collection preferences. Digital consoles tend to be cheaper and save space, but you lose the ability to buy used games or pick up physical copies. If you prefer collecting physical discs or want the flexibility to resell games, a model with a disc drive makes more sense. Ultimately, consider your access to digital stores and whether you value physical media more than initial savings.
Is it worth paying extra for an 8K-ready console?
While 8K output promises higher resolution, it remains a feature mostly relevant for future displays. Currently, most games and content are optimized for 4K. Paying extra for 8K support might not provide immediate benefits, but it can be a good investment if you plan to upgrade your display soon or want the latest hardware. For most gamers today, prioritizing performance, storage, and game library access offers better value.
How important is backward compatibility when choosing a next-gen console?
Backward compatibility ensures you can play your existing game library on a new console, which adds significant value. Both Sony and Microsoft have made strides in supporting older titles, but the level of support varies. If you own a large collection of previous-generation games, choosing a console with robust backward compatibility makes the transition smoother and more cost-effective. This feature can also extend the lifespan of your gaming library across generations.
Should I prioritize storage size over performance?
Storage size and performance are both critical, but the importance depends on your gaming style. Larger SSDs reduce load times and allow more games to be stored locally, which is especially helpful for large AAA titles. However, sacrificing some performance for more storage might be acceptable if you primarily play less demanding games or use external drives. Balancing both factors based on your game library and usage habits leads to a more satisfying purchase.
Is a refurbished console a good option?
Refurbished consoles can offer significant savings, but they often come with tradeoffs like limited warranties or older hardware. If you’re comfortable with potential minor issues and want to save money, buying from a reputable seller can be worthwhile. However, for guaranteed reliability and the latest hardware features, new models are usually a safer choice. Carefully weigh the savings against the risk of reduced support or warranty coverage.
Conclusion
For most gamers, the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition remains the best overall choice thanks to its exclusive titles and powerful hardware. Those seeking maximum performance and future-proofing should consider the Xbox Series X. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the Xbox Series S for its affordability, while newcomers or casual players might find the Series S or digital-only options more suitable. If you prioritize high-end features like larger storage or 8K support, investing in the premium models makes sense. Ultimately, your ideal choice hinges on your specific gaming preferences, budget, and ecosystem loyalty.
