Choose the best gaming console

Retro-Bit Super Retro Trio HD Plus Review: a simple 3-in-1 box to plug your old carts into a modern TV

Retro-Bit Super Retro Trio HD Plus 720P 3 in 1 Console System (2019) for Original NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis Games - Red/White

+ Plays original NES, SNES and Genesis/Mega Drive ca...

+ Six controller ports with support for original con...

+ Simple plug-and-play setup with region switches an...

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Review: a premium pad that’s great, but not flawless

Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Black

Xbox

+ Very comfortable with nice weight and wrap‑around...

+ Back paddles and adjustable triggers actually impr...

+ Strong battery life with handy charging dock and g...

SEGA Mega Drive Mini Review: pure nostalgia, with a few 2019‑era annoyances

SEGA

+ Faithful emulation with good sound and stable 720p...

+ Nice physical design and build, very close to the...

+ Strong game selection with many well-known classic...

Essential Accessories to Buy

Current trends

The hidden costs of handheld gaming: cases, grips, screen protectors and microSD cards add up fast

03/09/2026

The hidden costs of handheld gaming: cases, grips, screen protectors and microSD cards add up fast

Handheld consoles hide real costs. See how cases, grips, screen protectors, microSD cards and power banks add 100–200 dollars to Steam Deck and Switch setups.

Xbox

03/09/2026

Xbox after the reset: is the Series X ecosystem still worth buying into?

Gamescom 2026 buyer's preview: the console and accessory reveals worth tracking from Cologne

Charging Docks & Batteries

24/08/2026

Gamescom 2026 buyer's preview: the console and accessory reveals worth tracking from Cologne

User-replaceable batteries should be the baseline for every gaming device in 2026

22/08/2026

User-replaceable batteries should be the baseline for every gaming device in 2026

DualSense Edge, Xbox Elite Series 2 and third-party pro pads: when a premium controller earns its price

15/08/2026

DualSense Edge, Xbox Elite Series 2 and third-party pro pads: when a premium controller earns its price

Our latest product comparisons

See all comparisons →

Top 12: best disc-based gaming consoles (2026)

Xbox

Xbox Series X - 1TB SSD Gaming Console

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.8/10

+ Fast load times

+ 4K gaming support

PlayStation

PS5 Fortnite Cobalt Star Edition

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.8/10

PlayStation

PS5 Console - 1TB Disc Edition (Slim)

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.7/10

See full comparison →

+ Noticeably improves airflow and keeps the Switch 2 cooler in tighter TV units

Which gaming console cooling accessories to choose? Top 8 (2026)

LED Console Cooling Stand for Nintendo Switch 2

Venom

LED Cooling Stand for Nintendo Switch 2

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 9.0/10

+ Simple plug-and-play setup with USB power and easy front controls

PS5 Cooling & Charging Station with RGB - Dual Controller Charger, Cooling Fan, Headset Holder, 3-Port USB Hub (White/Black)

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.6/10

OIVO

PS5/Slim/Pro Stand and Cooling Station with LED Controller Charging Station for PlayStation 5 Console, Controller Charger, Cooling Stand, PS5/Slim/Pro Accessories Kit with 3 Level Cooler Fan White

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.5/10

See full comparison →

+ Very fast loading times thanks to the SSD and 16 GB memory

The 7 best gaming consoles with Wi-Fi (2026)

PlayStation

Console Sony PlayStation 5 Édition Standard Blanche

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.7/10

+ Quiet operation compared to PS4/PS4 Pro, even in long sessions

PlayStation

5 Pro Console

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.7/10

ASUS

ROG Xbox Ally X (2025) - Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD, FHD 120Hz

★★★★★ ★★★★★ 8.5/10

See full comparison →

Spotlight

The best controller charging docks and stands for PS5, Xbox and Switch 2 in 2026

Charging Docks & Batteries

29/08/2026

The best controller charging docks and stands for PS5, Xbox and Switch 2 in 2026

Expert guide to the best controller charging docks and stands for PS5, Xbox and Switch 2, with tested picks, safety tips and multi-platform setup advice.

The student gaming setup guide: console, handheld and dorm-ready picks on a budget

11/08/2026

The student gaming setup guide: console, handheld and dorm-ready picks on a budget

Dorm-friendly gaming guide for 2026: compare Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series S and PlayStation 5 Digital Edition, plus monitors, headsets and storage tips for college students in small rooms.

Retroid Pocket 5 vs Analogue Pocket: two philosophies of retro handheld and how to choose

Handheld Gaming Consoles

04/08/2026

Retroid Pocket 5 vs Analogue Pocket: two philosophies of retro handheld and how to choose

In this in depth comparison of Retroid Pocket 5 vs Analogue Pocket, learn how FPGA cartridges, emulation, controls and form factor shape your ideal retro handheld.

Adaptive controllers and accessibility features every current console offers in 2026

Storage & Memory Expansion

08/08/2026

Adaptive controllers and accessibility features every current console offers in 2026

Practical guide to adaptive controllers and accessibility on Xbox, PlayStation and Switch, helping families choose the right console, gear and settings.

The AI memory crisis is silently rewriting every gaming price tag

28/07/2026

The AI memory crisis is silently rewriting every gaming price tag

AI data centers are driving a global DRAM and NAND crunch, pushing up the cost of PlayStation, Xbox, Switch and PC-style handhelds in 2026. See how memory prices, console design and accessory costs intersect—and whether you should buy now or wait.

Cloud gaming on the go: how PS Portal, GeForce Now and Xbox Cloud compare for commuters

Handheld Gaming Consoles

26/07/2026

Cloud gaming on the go: how PS Portal, GeForce Now and Xbox Cloud compare for commuters

Discover how cloud gaming really performs on commutes, with practical advice on Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce Now, PlayStation Portal, Steam Deck, ROG Ally, battery life, and real-world internet requirements for handheld play.

Switch 2 hits $499 in September: the buying window every family needs to know

Nintendo Switch

21/07/2026

Switch 2 hits $499 in September: the buying window every family needs to know

Nintendo’s 2026 Switch 2 price increase raises the U.S. console from $449.99 to $499.99 and ends the value bundle in August. See regional examples, reasons for the hike, and how families can save before the September deadline.

Best gaming console in 2026: one clear pick for families, competitors, casuals and collectors

01/08/2026

Best gaming console in 2026: one clear pick for families, competitors, casuals and collectors

Wondering which system is the best gaming console in 2026 for your household? Compare Switch 2, PS5 Pro, Xbox Series X|S, Steam Deck OLED, Analogue Pocket and more for families, competitive players, casual gamers and retro fans.

PlayStation

18/07/2026

Halo lands on PlayStation for the first time: why Campaign Evolved is the real console war story of 2026

Halo: Campaign Evolved on PS5, Xbox and PC marks a turning point for the console war, reshaping how players choose hardware through cross-play, Game Pass value and Microsoft’s open platform strategy.

Xbox cuts 3,200 jobs and drops four studios: what the biggest restructure in Xbox history changes for buyers

Microsoft Xbox

14/07/2026

Xbox cuts 3,200 jobs and drops four studios: what the biggest restructure in Xbox history changes for buyers

Xbox’s 2026 reset brings 3,200 job cuts, four studios leaving first party, and a sharper focus on Game Pass tentpoles like Minecraft, Forza, Fallout and The Elder Scrolls. Here’s what that means for console buyers, upcoming games and long-term Xbox Series X|S support.

Couch co-op in 2026: which consoles and games still let you play side by side

10/07/2026

Couch co-op in 2026: which consoles and games still let you play side by side

Comparing the best couch co-op console options for 2026, including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series, with guidance on controllers, TV size, family setups and local multiplayer libraries.

Why your hands hurt after an hour: the ergonomics gap between console controllers

Top Gaming consoles for living rooms

06/07/2026

Why your hands hurt after an hour: the ergonomics gap between console controllers

Learn how controller ergonomics, weight, trigger travel and grip shape cause hand pain in gaming, and compare Xbox, DualSense and Switch Pro pads for comfort.

Game Pass & Subscription Services

05/07/2026

Top Gaming consoles for living rooms

Editorial guide to the best gaming consoles for living rooms, comparing PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Steam Deck on image quality, noise, family use, and subscription services with cited market data.

03/07/2026

Game Pass vs PS Plus Premium in 2026: which subscription actually earns its monthly fee?

Comparing Game Pass vs PS Plus in 2026? Learn how pricing, day-one Xbox releases, PlayStation back catalogues, cloud gaming and your own play habits decide which gaming subscription actually earns its monthly fee.

Sega Genesis vs its modern clones: what the original hardware still does better

03/07/2026

Top Gaming console cooling accessories

Discover the best gaming console cooling accessories, from vertical stands and wall mounts to cooling stations and controller chargers, with real test data, noise figures, and buying tips for quieter, safer long gaming sessions.

Retro & Classic Consoles

29/06/2026

Sega Genesis vs its modern clones: what the original hardware still does better

Comparing the Sega Genesis original vs mini? Learn how sound, video, controllers, cartridges, FPGA clones, and living room setups affect which version is best for your retro gaming style.

30/06/2026

Top Gaming consoles with Wi-Fi

Discover how Wi‑Fi standards, real‑world speeds, and latency shape the best gaming consoles, from Xbox Series X|S and PS5 to Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and retro handhelds, plus buying tips and key industry stats.

How to sell your old console in 2026 without getting lowballed

Retro & Classic Consoles

PlayStation vs. Xbox vs. Switch

08/07/2026

How to sell your old console in 2026 without getting lowballed

Learn how to sell your old console in 2026 without getting lowballed: when to list, where to sell, how to price with real data, and how to present and reset your PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch or retro system for maximum value.

When your console is also a PC: how SteamOS handhelds and the Steam Machine blur every buying category

26/06/2026

When your console is also a PC: how SteamOS handhelds and the Steam Machine blur every buying category

Comparing steam machine vs console in 2026: how SteamOS, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series and handheld PCs differ on performance, price, controllers and game libraries for returning players.

26/06/2026

Top Gaming consoles for streaming media

Discover the best gaming consoles for streaming media in 2026. Compare Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and Steam Deck for 4K HDR streaming, storage, and everyday entertainment.

Understanding the x6 Game Console Firmware

How to Turn Off the LED on the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Controller

24/08/2025

How to Turn Off the LED on the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Controller

Exploring the Space Marine 2 Cheat Engine Table

12/06/2025

Exploring the Space Marine 2 Cheat Engine Table

Exploring the PlayStation PC Software Development Kit

Sony PlayStation

05/05/2025

Exploring the PlayStation PC Software Development Kit

Troubleshooting: 8bitdo Connects My Controller but It Won't Respond

06/10/2025

Troubleshooting: 8bitdo Connects My Controller but It Won't Respond

Understanding switch NSP files: what you need to know for Nintendo gaming

Nintendo Switch

12/12/2025

Understanding switch NSP files: what you need to know for Nintendo gaming

01/02/2026

Top Next-Gen Consoles

Connecting Your Retro Fighters Controller to Your PC: A Step-by-Step Guide

Retro Gaming Brands

Optimizing Graphics & Performance

05/08/2025

Connecting Your Retro Fighters Controller to Your PC: A Step-by-Step Guide

Exciting Updates in the Latest Fortnite Season

Optimizing Graphics & Performance

12/06/2025

Exciting Updates in the Latest Fortnite Season

Understanding the Warframe Tier List: A Guide for Console Gamers

12/06/2025

Understanding the Warframe Tier List: A Guide for Console Gamers

How to add games to Xbox 360 Aurora safely and efficiently

11/04/2026

How to add games to Xbox 360 Aurora safely and efficiently

How to Fix Your Xbox Controller: A Comprehensive Guide

08/06/2025

How to Fix Your Xbox Controller: A Comprehensive Guide

Real cartridges or emulation: what retro players discover when they try both

Handheld Gaming Consoles

20/05/2026

Real cartridges or emulation: what retro players discover when they try both

01/02/2026

Top Emulator Consoles

Troubleshooting gpsp Issues on Anbernic Consoles

Steam Deck & PC Handhelds

04/07/2025

Troubleshooting gpsp Issues on Anbernic Consoles

Unlocking the Potential of Rocket League with a Steam Key

02/07/2025

Unlocking the Potential of Rocket League with a Steam Key

Gaming Consoles

Nintendo Switch

30/07/2026

The most engaging Nintendo Switch multiplayer games for every type of player

Discover why Nintendo Switch multiplayer games shine on the couch, from Mario Kart and Mario Party to Luigi’s Mansion, Kirby, and quirky indie co-op. Learn ideal group sizes, session lengths, and how to balance price, modes, and play styles for family-friendly fun.

by Alexa Mendoza

How genki arcade reshapes retro console play on modern screens

Retro & Classic Consoles

29/07/2026

How genki arcade reshapes retro console play on modern screens

Discover how the Genki Arcade ecosystem and Genki ShadowCast capture devices connect original retro consoles and Nintendo Switch to modern screens with low latency, clean 1080p video, and flexible setups for laptops and iPads.

by Ravi Dhawan

Accessories

How a red and black gaming chair transforms long console sessions

Gaming Chairs & Stands

25/07/2026

How a red and black gaming chair transforms long console sessions

Learn how to choose a red and black gaming chair for console play, with evidence-based ergonomics tips, material specs, review strategies, and buying advice without sacrificing style or comfort.

by Astrid Vandermeer

Why the magicx zero40 handheld game console is redefining retro control

Gaming Console for Kids & Families

19/07/2026

Why the magicx zero40 handheld game console is redefining retro control

In depth look at the magicx zero40 handheld game console, covering Allwinner Cortex hardware, 4.0 inch IPS screen quality, battery life, controls, storage, and how this vertical retro handheld fits into a modern gaming setup.

by Ravi Dhawan

Buying Guides

Thoughtful switch game choices for 5 year olds and their families

Essential Accessories to Buy

29/07/2026

Thoughtful switch game choices for 5 year olds and their families

Practical ways to wear a gaming sleeve for better console play

22/07/2026

Practical ways to wear a gaming sleeve for better console play

01/07/2026

Best gaming console for a small apartment: noise, heat and size compared

Best Online Multiplayer Games

24/06/2026

Top Gaming consoles with ray tracing

Gaming Tips & Setup

The most engaging Switch co op games for shared couch adventures

26/07/2026

The most engaging Switch co op games for shared couch adventures

Discover why Nintendo Switch co-op games are ideal for couch play, families, and parties. Explore local multiplayer hits like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Overcooked, Stardew Valley, and more, plus buying tips, controller setups, and key stats.

by Seraphine Thornbloom

How to run an audio latency test on your console and fix sound delay

22/07/2026

How to run an audio latency test on your console and fix sound delay

Learn how to run accurate audio latency tests on PS5, Xbox, and other consoles, reduce sound delay, and diagnose hardware vs software issues for smoother gaming and party chat.

by Bastien-Charles Noire

Top Brands

Nintendo