In the world of gaming consoles, every year there are significant changes and updates. New models, more powerful specs, and exclusive games all make choosing the perfect console a daunting task. For those looking to purchase a device in 2024, it’s important to understand the options available on the market and which ones fit different budgets and preferences. In this article, we take a look at the top 10 gaming consoles of 2024, analysing them from different angles, from performance and design to price and available games.
Top gaming consoles
1. PlayStation 5
The latest generation of gaming consoles from Sony. Key features include high-speed SSD storage that enables near-instant loading of games and scenarios, and support for Ray-Tracing, a real-time ray-tracing technology that brings visual effects to a new level.
One of the key features is the new DualSense controller, which offers adaptive triggers, haptic feedback and an inbuilt microphone. These innovations allow players to become much more immersed in the game world.
The PS5 boasts a huge library of both exclusive and multiplatform games. Some of them, such as Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, were specifically designed to showcase the new console’s capabilities.
Characteristics:
| Characterisation | Details |
| Processor | AMD Zen 2 8-core, clocked at 3.5 GHz |
| GPU | Custom RDNA 2 – 10.28 teraflops. |
| RAM | 16 GB GDDR6 |
| SSD | 825 GB expandable |
| Resolution | Up to 8K, support 4K at 120Hz |
| Optical drive | 4K UHD Blu-ray (standard version only, Digital Edition without drive) |
| Ports | HDMI 2.1, USB 3.2, Ethernet |
| VR support | Yes, compatible with PS VR |
| Internet | Wi-Fi 6, 1Gb Ethernet |
| Subscription services | PlayStation Plus, PlayStation Now |
| Price | From $499 for Standard Edition, $399 for Digital Edition |
Thus, PlayStation 5 is one of the most powerful and functional representatives of the new generation of game consoles, combining outstanding technical characteristics and a wide range of quality games.
2. Xbox Series X
Represents the pinnacle of Microsoft’s game console engineering. With a powerful processor and GPU, this console is capable of outputting games in 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second.
One unique feature is the ability to quickly switch between multiple games without having to restart them, thanks to the Quick Resume feature. Plus, an Xbox Game Pass subscription gives you access to hundreds of games, including new releases from Microsoft Studios on release day.
Characteristics:
| Characterisation | Details |
| Processor | 8 AMD Zen 2 cores, 3.8 GHz |
| GPU | Custom RDNA 2 – 12 teraflops. |
| RAM | 16 GB GDDR6 |
| SSD | 1 TB expandable |
| Resolution | Up to 8K, support 4K at 120Hz |
| Optical drive | 4K UHD Blu-ray |
| Ports | HDMI 2.1, USB 3.2, Ethernet |
| Backward compatibility support | Yes, for Xbox One, Xbox 360 and original Xbox games |
| Internet | Wi-Fi 6, 1Gb Ethernet |
| Subscription services | Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Live Gold |
| Price | From $499 |
3. Nintendo Switch
It is a hybrid gaming system that can function as a stationary console and as a portable device. It is unique in its ability to quickly switch between modes, allowing players to enjoy their favourite games anywhere.
Switch offers many exclusive games such as “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild”, “Super Mario Odyssey” and “Animal Crossing: New Horizons”. Plus, thanks to its two joycons, the device supports multiplayer right out of the box.
Characteristics:
| Characterisation | Details |
| Processor | NVIDIA Custom Tegra |
| Screen | 6.2 inches, 1280 x 720 |
| Internal memory | 32 GB, expandable via microSD |
| Supported resolutions (TV mode) | 720p, 1080p |
| Battery | Up to 9 hours depending on the game |
| Ports | USB Type-C, 3.5mm audio jack |
| Network | Wi-Fi |
| Multiplayer support | Yes, up to 8 players |
| Price | From $299 |
4. Xbox Series S
A more affordable variant of Microsoft’s next generation of consoles. Despite the reduced specs compared to the Series X, this model still offers many features such as Quick Resume and Game Pass access.
With a budget price and full Game Pass compatibility, the Xbox Series S is ideal for those just starting their introduction to the world of console gaming or looking for an economical option for a second room.
Characteristics:
| Characterisation | Details |
| Processor | 8 AMD Zen 2 cores, 3.6 GHz |
| GPU | Custom RDNA 2 – 4 teraflops. |
| RAM | 10 GB GDDR6 |
| SSD | 512 GB expandable |
| Resolution | Up to 1440p with 120 FPS |
| Optical drive | Absent |
| Ports | HDMI 2.1, USB 3.2, Ethernet |
| Internet | Wi-Fi 6, 1Gb Ethernet |
| Subscription services | Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Live Gold |
| Price | From $299 |
5. PlayStation 4 Pro
PlayStation 4 Pro is an enhanced version of the base PS4 designed for high-resolution gaming. It supports 4K and HDR, and features improved performance for smoother, more detailed gameplay.
This model offers access to Sony’s huge library of quality exclusives, including “The Last of Us Part II,” “Ghost of Tsushima” and “God of War,” with enhanced graphics and performance.
Characteristics:
| Characterisation | Details |
| Processor | 8-core AMD x86-64 Jaguar, 2.1 GHz |
| GPU | AMD GCN Radeon – 4.2 teraflops |
| RAM | 8 GB GDDR5 |
| HDD | 1 TB |
| Resolution | 4K and HDR support |
| Optical drive | Blu-ray/DVD |
| Ports | HDMI 2.0, USB 3.1, Ethernet |
| Internet | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Subscription services | PlayStation Plus, PlayStation Now |
| Price | From $399 |
Choosing a gaming console is no easy feat, especially considering the variety of options on the market. From premium machines with stunning graphics and speed like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X to budget and portable options like the Xbox Series S and Nintendo Switch, each model offers something unique.
If you’re looking for a console with the best specifications and exclusive games, the PS5 or Xbox Series X would be a great choice, but provided you have the right budget. On the other hand, if you need a greater degree of portability or want an economical option for younger members of the family, the Nintendo Switch or Xbox Series S may be more suitable.
In any case, the key factor is your personal choice, depending on which features and games are most important to you. I hope this detailed review and comparative specifications will help you make the right choice.
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