Big-screen adventures, handheld favourites or another controller for player two. Explore gaming hardware below, then use our guide to build a setup around the games and experiences you enjoy.
Ten consoles, handhelds and controllers to explore, listed without ranking. Check the exact edition, game compatibility and included accessories before choosing.
01
The PlayStation 5 is a starting point for exploring Sony's console games and big-screen gaming. Its high-speed SSD supports fast loading, while compatible games can take advantage of the DualSense controller's features. Check the exact console edition and storage capacity, especially if you want a disc drive for physical games.
View manufacturer detailsFeature focus High-speed SSD and DualSense controller features in supported games.
02
Explore the PS5 Pro if visual detail and performance in supported games are priorities for your setup. It includes 2TB of SSD storage and enhanced graphics features for compatible titles. Consider your television and the games you play before choosing. The console is supplied without a disc drive, which is available separately if you need one.
View manufacturer detailsFeature focus 2TB SSD storage and graphics enhancements in PS5 Pro-supported games.
03
The Xbox Series X is worth exploring for a television-based gaming setup with support for 4K gaming in compatible titles. The range includes different storage capacities and both disc-equipped and all-digital editions. Check the exact version carefully, then consider the games you want, available storage and any subscription you plan to use.
View manufacturer detailsFeature focus 4K gaming support in compatible titles, with disc-equipped and digital editions available.
04
The Xbox Series S offers an all-digital route into the Xbox console range. It has no disc drive, so it suits players who download their games. Check whether the listing includes 512GB or 1TB of storage, and think about how many games you want installed together. Include any storage expansion in your overall budget.
View manufacturer detailsFeature focus Disc-free gaming with a choice of 512GB or 1TB SSD storage.
05
Nintendo Switch 2 combines handheld play with the option to connect to a television. Its 7.9-inch LCD screen and 256GB internal storage are useful details to consider when exploring Nintendo's newer system. Check compatibility with any existing Switch games and accessories, and look closely at bundle contents before deciding which package suits you.
View manufacturer detailsFeature focus 7.9-inch LCD screen and 256GB internal storage for handheld and TV gaming.
06
The Switch OLED Model remains part of the original Nintendo Switch family. Its 7-inch OLED screen and wide adjustable stand are features to explore if you enjoy handheld or tabletop play. It is a different system from Switch 2, so check which console your chosen games require. The included dock also provides a wired LAN port.
View manufacturer detailsFeature focus 7-inch OLED display, adjustable tabletop stand and dock with a wired LAN port.
07
Steam Deck OLED brings compatible PC games into a handheld format with a 7.4-inch HDR OLED display. It is worth exploring if you already use Steam or want a portable PC gaming device. Check the compatibility status of the games you care about, as not every title works equally well on SteamOS or with handheld controls.
View manufacturer detailsFeature focus 7.4-inch HDR OLED touchscreen with a refresh rate up to 90Hz.
08
The ROG Xbox Ally X is a Windows handheld gaming PC, rather than a portable Xbox console. It combines an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor with a 7-inch Full HD display. Check the PC versions of your games, launcher requirements and controller support. Battery life and performance depend on the game and settings you choose.
View manufacturer detailsFeature focus Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor and a 7-inch Full HD display with 120Hz refresh rate.
09
An additional DualSense controller can be useful for supported local multiplayer games or as a spare for your PS5 setup. Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers provide game-dependent effects. If you want to use it with a PC or another device, check compatibility and connection requirements, as feature support can differ between platforms and games.
View manufacturer detailsFeature focus Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers in supported games.
10
The Xbox Wireless Controller is worth exploring for Xbox gaming or compatible games on a PC, phone or tablet. It supports Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth connections, with a 3.5mm jack for a compatible headset. Check the requirements of your device and games, then consider batteries, a rechargeable battery pack and any charging accessories you need.
View manufacturer detailsFeature focus Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth connectivity, plus a 3.5mm headset jack.
Start with the games you want to play, where you will play them and who will join you. Then check the hardware, accessories and ongoing costs.
Make a list of the games you want before choosing hardware. Check the exact platform and edition, including whether your existing games will work. For handheld PCs, check compatibility and performance guidance for the titles you use most.
Decide whether you mainly want television, handheld or desk-based gaming. Check your display's resolution, refresh rate and connections alongside the device. For portable gaming, consider screen size, weight, battery use and charging.
Game downloads and updates can use substantial storage. Check available capacity and compatible expansion options. If you own physical games, confirm that the console has the right disc or game card support before purchasing.
Include games, additional controllers, compatible audio equipment and storage in your budget. Check whether the features you want need a paid subscription. For shared or family use, review local multiplayer support and parental controls.
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