Finding the right gaming console can be tough since every option offers different experiences, perks, and exclusive video games. If you're dealing with analysis paralysis, here's a breakdown before you break down. Get to know the top consoles, their key features, and the type of gamers they capture best below.

Launched in 2020, the PlayStation 5 (PS5) is the newest iteration of Sony's home video game console. It boasts powerful specs, outmatching its competition with features like a custom SSD for ultra-fast load times and an advanced GPU for stellar graphics. It also guarantees immersive gameplay with Haptic Feedback and Ray Tracing, which help simulate in-game environments.

If you pair your PS5 with a compatible HDR or 4K TV, you'll feel like the game world is coming to life around you. Acclaimed titles like The Last of Us, Final Fantasy XVI, and Marvel's Spiderman 2 are exclusive to the PlayStation series, so the console becomes an essential if you're an avid fan of these games.

Perfect for: Players seeking highly immersive play experiences, stunning visuals, and super smooth performance.

The Nintendo Switch's primary claim to fame is its unique hybrid design. Players can easily switch between handheld and console modes, allowing seamless on-the-go and TV gaming. Nintendo offers numerous colorways and accessories for the Switch, so gamers can find whatever suits their personality best.

Like the PlayStation, some cult favorite console games are exclusive to Nintendo. The Japanese gaming company specializes in family-friendly franchises like Super Mario, Animal Crossing, and Pokémon, which regularly break sales records with every new release.

In 2019, Nintendo launched the Switch Lite, a handheld-only version of the system. It’s even lighter and more portable than the original, which makes it ideal for nonstop gaming.

Perfect for: Players who value convenient and versatile gaming, multiplayer modes, and wholesome family time. Nintendo also offers exclusive party games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Mario Party, which are great for social butterflies.

In 2020, Microsoft launched the Xbox Series X alongside the Xbox Series S as part of its ninth generation of gaming consoles. Between the two, Series X is more advanced. It offers top-tier hardware, a custom AMD Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU, native 4K gaming at higher frame rates, and a larger SSD for storage.

Meanwhile, the Series S has less storage and targets 1440p gaming instead of native 4K. It also has a more compact console design, making it more suitable for smaller spaces. The Series X's impressive specs come with a hefty price tag, costing nearly twice as much as the Series S. 

The good news is you can access hundreds of games with the Xbox Game Pass regardless of which you choose. Xbox also offers backward compatibility for the console's older generations, so you can continue playing beloved titles, including Xbox exclusives like Halo Infinite, Starfield, and Forza Horizon 5.

Perfect for: Players who want options for every budget. The Series X is best for those who prioritize top specs and are willing to pay the cost, while the Series S is more affordable but still impressive.

While a gaming PC isn't strictly just a video game console, many avid gamers (including pros!) will tell you it's the best overall system. After all, you can customize every aspect of your play experience, from essentials like your CPU, GPU, and RAM to peripherals like your keyboard, mouse, and headphones. That makes building your PC setup a hobby in itself.

You can mix and match hundreds of different parts to make your ideal gaming PC. But generally, you'll want a high-performance CPU like the Intel Core i7 and i9 or AMD Ryzen 7 for smooth gaming and multitasking. Invest in a powerful GPU like the top-rated NVIDIA GeForce RTX series for the crispest graphics. Get a monitor with a high refresh rate and low response time, and pair it with a responsive gaming mouse to ensure zero delays.

Lastly, go for at least 16GB RAM, especially if you play high-speed, demanding games like Valorant and Counter-Strike. Having a PC lets you access a sprawling library of games, including those from independent publishers and even free-to-play options that may not be available on some consoles. Critically acclaimed and fan-favorite titles include Genshin Impact, Disco Elysium, and Half-Life.

Perfect for: Players who want a customized gaming setup and the ability to build rigs with top-tier components. Competitive gamers also typically prefer PC systems as they offer greater precision.

Steam started as a video game digital distribution service by Valve Corporation, the developer behind iconic game franchises like Dota, Left 4 Dead, and Counter-Strike. In 2022, the brand finally launched the much-awaited Steam Deck, bringing PC gaming to a handheld device. Since Steam has the world's largest library of PC-compatible games, having a Steam Deck lets you play all 50,000+ games on the platform.

Upon logging into Steam Deck, you'll gain instant access to your entire Steam Library, just like on a PC. Play while on the move, install third-party applications to modify settings like a traditional PC, and discover Steam-exclusive games that aren't available on other consoles. Ultimately, it combines the PC experience with the convenience of handheld devices for better accessibility.

Perfect for: Players who want to launch their Steam Library on the go and get into PC gaming without committing to a full setup.

No matter which gaming console you choose, you'll need a reliable internet connection to download new titles, receive updates, and play online multiplayer games. Sign up for a Globe At Home GFiber plan to ensure lag-free gaming at home, and get Globe 5G for console-quality gaming with low latency and hyper-fast downloads when you're on mobile.