Buying a console can be a difficult decision especially when Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft all have their unique features and gaming experiences.
However, doing your research and due diligence will help you avoid making regrettable purchases and making the wrong decision.
With that, here are five things to consider when it comes to choosing the right console for you:
1. Be sure about what you want
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Each console offers its own gaming experience: What you don't want to do is buy a console for it to not offer the games you want to play.
By that I mean, there's no point investing your hard-earned money into a Nintendo Switch console if you want to play God of War. Conversely, Nintendo would be the smart choice if you enjoy The Legend of Zelda series or Super Smash Bros.
Make sure to do your research to know what type of games your desired console offers. Although to be clear, either decision may mean you miss out on console-exclusive games.
2. PS5 vs Xbox vs Nintendo Switch
Unless you're set on purchasing a PC or its extensive game selection, your decision will likely revolve around the latest generation consoles: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, or Nintendo Switch.
If you enjoy playing games on the go, then the portable Nintendo console is a solid pick, or if you prefer realistic, high-definition graphics on large screens, PlayStation or Xbox may be more suitable.
3. Choose what to sacrifice
Each console offers its own diverse selection of games and more so, they are designed with specific game mechanics in mind.
Whilst Call of Duty might be available on the Nintendo Switch you might find things like shooting and aiming a lot harder to control compared to a PlayStation controller, or mouse and keyboard.
Furthermore, consider what systems your family and friends play on.
For example, whilst some games might be available on multiple consoles, cross-play may not be available, meaning different consoles can't play the same game together. Whereas, Rocket League and Fortnite support cross-play for all consoles and PC.
4. Wait to upgrade?
With rumours and leaks circulating about the PlayStation 6 or Nintendo Switch 2, or the recent announcement of the all-digital Xbox Series X, it makes it difficult to choose when to pick a console.
Decide whether you want to play the games now or wait until the next-generation console is released. Are you happy with the current selection of games or do you want the next big thing?
5. Set a budget
Gaming consoles are going to cost a good couple of hundred, but that doesn't mean you can't keep your eye out for deals.
Retailers like eBay and second-hand game shops like CEX sell top-gen consoles at a more affordable price. So you don't have to end up paying top-end prices especially if you want to trial your console experience.
Also, make sure to factor in extra costs like optional subscription services. PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass provide players with access to a vast library of games for a monthly fee.