The best games console: choose from performance, value, retro and more

 Best games consoles
(Image credit: Xbox / Sony / Creative Bloq)

The choice between the best games consoles has never been more varied. While Sony's PlayStation 5 remains my recommendation for the best games console overall, due to its exclusive games, enhanced controller tech and UI. The Xbox Series X has gained some ground with Xbox Game Pass, the Nintendo Switch continues to be one of the best-selling consoles (its OLED model is fantastic) and Valve's Steam Deck takes PC gaming on the go.

When considering which is the best games console, I share why I feel each deserves your attention. I've spent 25 years writing about video games, have edited Official PlayStation Magazine and several Xbox magazines, and I think there's no better time for choice than right now - each console on my list has its own merits and uses, (I should know as I own most of them).

Ian Dean headshot
Ian Dean

Ian started writing about video games on PlayStation magazine Planet PlayStation in 1998, he's since edited and launched a number of best-selling games magazines, including X360, XBM, PlayStation World and Official PlayStation Magazine. He has a wealth of experience writing about video games, but also a passion for game art, design and tech.

Why you can trust Creative Bloq Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Nintendo SwitchRead our Nintendo Switch review

Nintendo Switch
The older Nintendo Switch remains one of the best games console, though its been superseded by the OLED model. If you want a Switch for less money but with all the features lacking in the Lite model, this is the one.
Read our Nintendo Switch review

Xbox Series SRead our Xbox Series S deals tracker

Xbox Series S
While I believe Xbox Series X offers the best value overall, the cheaper and slightly less powerful Xbox Series S is good if you want Game Pass but don't need a disc drive and are happy with 1080p resolution gaming.
Read our Xbox Series S deals tracker

ASUS ROG AllyRead our ASUS ROG Ally review

ASUS ROG Ally
The ASUS ROG Ally is a direct competitor to the Steam Deck and while its design is curvier, lighter and more portable it lacks the power and versatility of Valve's leading PC console. But it's still recommended if you want a PC handheld that's more mobile.
Read our ASUS ROG Ally review

Editor, Digital Arts & 3D

Ian Dean is Editor, Digital Arts & 3D at Creative Bloq, and the former editor of many leading magazines. These titles included ImagineFX, 3D World and video game titles Play and Official PlayStation Magazine. Ian launched Xbox magazine X360 and edited PlayStation World. For Creative Bloq, Ian combines his experiences to bring the latest news on digital art, VFX and video games and tech, and in his spare time he doodles in Procreate, ArtRage, and Rebelle while finding time to play Xbox and PS5.

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