The PlayStation 5 continues to dominate
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It’s also slimmed down from the original.
The Sony PlayStation 5 Slim is simple to boot up and play games on with a straightforward menu system.
While some consoles may clutter the screen or generate ads, the Sony PlayStation 5 has a clean layout.
PHOTO: Amazon
Lifewire / Jennifer Allen
The games are varied, with something for everyone here.
I enjoyed playing games with the PS5 DualSense controller.
What do buyers say?91% of nearly 8,000 Amazon reviewers rate the Sony PlayStation 5 five stars.
Lifewire / Jennifer Allen
The Nintendo Switch OLED has a crisp 7-inch OLED screen for using it as a handheld console.
you’re free to also dock it with your TV so the whole family can gather around.
The Joy-Con controllers are detachable, so you’re all set for two players out of the box.
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Its kickstand also improves the original Switch, which could be tricky to pop out.
It’s also adjustable, so you could angle it as you like.
You also get double the storage (64GB).
PHOTO: Amazon
What do buyers say?90% of over 35,000 Amazon reviewers rate the Nintendo Switch OLED five stars.
The Nintendo Switch Lite is an incredibly cute-looking handheld console.
Theres no performance drop herejust a more petite build.
Lifewire / Jennifer Allen
Exploring the console is straightforward, so newcomers and children can quickly figure out what to do.
Games can be bought digitally or as physical cartridges.
The console has 32GB of internal storage, which can be expanded with a microSD card.
PHOTO: Walmart
Thats not to say that concessions arent made here.
Also, the lack of unattached Joy-Con controllers means no motion controls, which can affect many games.
(You canread our review here.)
Lifewire / Jennifer Allen
What do buyers say?90% of 54,000 Amazon ratings give the Nintendo Switch Lite five stars.
During my time with them, I spent dozens of hours comparing them.
For instance, PlayStation has many hard-hitting single-player experiences with stories exploring adult themes.
Lifewire / Jennifer Allen
Alternatively, the Nintendo Switch has the Mario franchise, which is very family-friendly.
Many couch co-op and multiplayer titles, like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, offer a sociable experience.
Compatibility
Do you already own a console?
That can affect what your next one should be.
Convenience
Some consoles are more portable than others.
The Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck work portable, and you might dock them to a screen.
Its worth considering how important portability is for you.
For instance, Nintendos consoles, on average, cost about $100 less than many of its competitors.
you’ve got the option to also find great deals on classic systems.
How important is it to you to be able to play your favorite games in true 4K?
The same goes for virtual reality, as not all systems will support it.
For more advice,read our gaming console buying guide.
