The year 2023 has brought gamers a new generation of gaming consoles, each with unique features and capabilities. With so many great consoles to choose from, it can be tough to decide which one is the best gaming console for you. This comprehensive review compares the top gaming consoles on the market today to help you find the perfect fit.
Gamers, rejoice! The best gaming consoles of 2023 offer a wide range of options, from high-end powerhouses to budget-friendly choices. With new consoles from Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo, as well as emerging platforms like the Steam Deck, there are more great options than ever to suit different budgets and preferences.
In this gaming consoles comparison guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the capabilities, features, strengths, and weaknesses of the top gaming consoles. Read on for an in-depth look at the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch OLED, and more as we break down exactly how these new gaming consoles stack up.
PlayStation 5
Overview
As the newest generation of Sony's popular PlayStation console, the PlayStation 5 (PS5) is a top contender for best gaming console of 2023. Released in November 2020, the PS5 has already built a stellar library of high-quality exclusive games.
Features
The PS5 shines when it comes to processing power and graphics capabilities. Its AMD Zen 2-based CPU and custom RDNA 2 GPU allow it to support ray tracing, 4K resolution, and up to 120FPS frame rates. The PS5 also features a speedy custom SSD for lightning-fast load times.
Some other standout PS5 features include:
- Immersive haptic feedback and adaptive triggers on the DualSense controller
- 3D spatial audio for heightened immersion
- Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive
- Backward compatibility with most PS4 games
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cutting-edge graphics and performance
- Super fast load times
- Excellent library of exclusives
- Innovative DualSense controller
- Backward compatibility
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited storage space
- Occasional stability issues
- Few options for older games
With its robust technical capabilities and ever-growing games library, the PS5 is one of the best high-end gaming consoles available today. Gamers who want stunning graphics, speedy performance, and Sony exclusives will be very happy with the PS5.
Xbox Series X
Overview
The Xbox Series X is Microsoft's flagship next-gen console and a top competitor for the best gaming console title. Released alongside the budget-friendly Xbox Series S in November 2020, the Series X is a processing powerhouse designed with cutting-edge specs and performance.
Features
Like the PS5, the Xbox Series X contains powerful customized AMD Zen 2 and RDNA 2 architecture, enabling features like ray tracing, 4K resolution at 120FPS frame rates, and variable refresh rate support. The solid state drive offers 40x faster load times compared to previous Xbox consoles.
Other notable features include:
- Backward compatibility with Xbox One and supported Xbox 360/original Xbox games
- Smart Delivery to play optimized versions of owned games
- Quick Resume to switch between multiple games
- 1TB of storage
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightning fast load times
- Strong backward compatibility
- Powerful performance
- Quick Resume feature
- Game Pass subscription with day one releases
Cons:
- Expensive
- Runs hot
- Few console exclusives
- Limited storage space
With its supercharged hardware and gamer-friendly features, the Xbox Series X is a top choice for players who want high frame rates and quick loading. The ability to play four generations of Xbox games is a major plus.
Nintendo Switch OLED
Overview
The Nintendo Switch OLED joins the standard Switch and Switch Lite as the newest addition to Nintendo's popular Switch family. Released in October 2021, the Switch OLED offers a vibrant 7-inch OLED screen but no major hardware upgrades.
Features
The main appeal of the Switch OLED model is the beautiful, high-contrast OLED screen. It makes games look great in handheld and tabletop mode. Compared to the original Switch, the Switch OLED also has double the internal storage (64GB) and an improved kickstand.
Other features include:
- Ability to play Nintendo Switch games in handheld, tabletop, or docked mode
- Joy-Con controllers with motion controls and HD rumble
- 720p screen resolution in handheld/tabletop mode
- Up to 9 hours of battery life
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Gorgeous OLED display
- Increased internal storage
- Improved kickstand
- Plays all Nintendo Switch games
Cons:
- No performance upgrade
- Joy-Con drift issues persist
- Battery life still capped at 9 hours
The Switch OLED gives you the full Nintendo Switch experience with a beautiful screen that makes games pop. It's a nice overall upgrade for handheld players but lacks any real performance boosts.
Other Gaming Consoles
Xbox Series S
The Xbox Series S is the budget next-gen offering from Microsoft, retailing for just $299. It is smaller and disc-free but still offers fast load times and many of the same features as the Series X, like Quick Resume and backward compatibility. The big catch is it only displays at 1440p resolution and has less storage space.
Nintendo Switch Lite
The Switch Lite is a handheld-only version of the Nintendo Switch that costs $100 less. It plays all the same games but cannot be docked for TV play. The Switch Lite is compact, lightweight, and cheaper, making it a good choice for portable gaming.
Steam Deck
The Steam Deck is a new portable PC gaming device from Valve. It allows you to play your Steam library on the go by default, with the option to install Windows for more flexibility. The Steam Deck features gaming controls, a 7-inch touchscreen, and decent hardware performance for the price. It offers a unique versatile portable PC gaming experience.
The Best Gaming Consoles of 2023
In terms of pure power and performance, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X lead the pack as the top gaming consoles in 2023. Both offer incredible graphics, speedy load times, and extensive game libraries.
For a more affordable next-gen experience, the Xbox Series S packs some nice features at just $299, despite lower resolutions and limited storage. Nintendo fans can enjoy upgraded display quality with the Switch OLED or portability with the Switch Lite. The Steam Deck also provides a portable way to play your PC games library.
Ultimately, choosing the best gaming console depends on your budget, preferred games, and whether you prioritize power, exclusives, portability, or affordability. Any of these consoles will give you access to amazing gaming experiences. But we hope breaking down the key differences helps you decide which new gaming console is right for you in 2023!
