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Buying a video game console isn’t just about comparing the power or resolution splashed across the box. Home console, handheld, retro machine or arcade cabinet: each format suits different ways of playing, with its own costs and limitations.
A classic first pitfall: being seduced by promises like “4K” or “120 frames per second” without checking whether your TV, game and cable are compatible. Storage also deserves a bit of attention: a generous capacity on paper can shrink fast after a few downloads. As for consoles without a disc drive, they force you into digital-only games and depend on both an internet connection and an online store.
Here are the points to check before you head to the checkout, followed by a selection of models for different types of players.
A home console mainly connects to a television or monitor. It’s aimed at players who want to enjoy a big screen, immersive games and multiplayer sessions with extra controllers.
A handheld console has its own screen and controls built in. It slips easily into a bag for train journeys, holidays or an impromptu gaming session in another room. Models running Windows 11 also give you access to several PC gaming platforms, but their interface and battery life may need a bit of tweaking.
The Nintendo Switch console and its hybrid variants sit somewhere in between: play on the TV, on a table or in handheld mode. Just remember to check the storage capacity and the type of memory card it accepts.
A digital console, like certain versions of the PlayStation 5 console or the Xbox console, doesn’t have an optical disc drive. All games are downloaded to the internal storage. Before you choose, consider:
A console with a disc drive lets you buy physical games, resell them or lend them out. It’s also a real plus for collectors and fans of second-hand games. For a digital console, read the product page carefully to confirm the absence of a disc drive and the terms for accessing digital content.
The mention 4K console doesn’t guarantee that all games will be rendered natively at that resolution. The output depends on the game, the TV and the settings you choose. If you’re aiming for a high refresh rate, also check for a suitable HDMI port and whether your screen supports features like variable refresh rate.
On a handheld console, look closely at the screen size, brightness, resolution and weight. An 8-inch screen displaying 1920 × 1200 pixels offers a comfortable viewing area, but a device weighing over 700 grams can quickly tire your wrists during long sessions.
Finally, take stock of what’s in the box: the console and controller, docking station, HDMI cable, power adapter and accessories aren’t always supplied the same way across different versions. In the UK, also remember to check the compliance information and that the seller applies the two-year statutory warranty.
Why this choice suits this profile: Compact and fully digital, it makes a good first console for playing on the TV, provided you don’t need disc-based games.
The product page clearly states the lack of a disc drive and the 512 GB capacity. So you know exactly what to expect for digital purchases and available space.
512 GB NVMe SSD, output up to 1440p, support for VRR and ALLM, Xbox controller included.
Why this choice suits this profile: Its Blu-ray drive, 4K compatibility and the DualSense controller’s features make it a complete home console for demanding players.
The standard version lets you keep access to physical games. The product page also mentions backwards compatibility with most PS4 games.
Blu-ray drive, SSD, HDMI 2.1, output up to 4K and DualSense controller supplied.
Why this choice suits this profile: With Windows 11 Home, its 8-inch touchscreen and 1 TB of storage, this console targets players who switch between several platforms and often play on the go.
With 1 TB of storage, you can put off buying an expansion. The product page also mentions a microSD card reader and two USB4 ports.
IPS screen 1920 × 1200 at 120 Hz, 16 GB LPDDR5X memory, Wi-Fi 6E and 55.5 Wh battery.
Why this choice suits this profile: This collector’s console is aimed at arcade enthusiasts who want to relive the Neo Geo AES experience at home, with genuine cartridges.
The product page details compatibility with original and new cartridges, as well as HDMI and AV outputs.
1:1 scale replica, dedicated ASIC chips with no emulation claimed, wireless arcade stick, Metal Slug cartridge and score saving.
Find a complete, real-time updated selection of products that meet these criteria as well as European safety requirements.
A hybrid console with detachable controllers, like the Nintendo Switch, makes it easy to play on the TV, on a table or in handheld mode. Just check how many controllers are supplied and the terms for online play.
The price of the console is only the beginning. You may also need to factor in downloaded games, an online subscription, storage expansion and a few accessories. A console with a disc drive gives you more freedom to buy second-hand games, lend them or resell them.
It all depends on ventilation, how often you use it, how well you maintain it and, for handheld models, the condition of the battery. Always place the console on a stable, dry surface with enough clearance. Don’t block the vents and use the supplied adapter, or one that’s explicitly compatible.