how to choose PS5, Xbox and Switch 2? Which Gaming Console Is Right for You?

When it comes to handheld gaming or home consoles, how do you choose between the PS5, Xbox, and Switch? Each console has unique strengths, and the best pick depends entirely on your needs. If you prioritize fun with family and friends—especially with kids—the Switch is a standout choice.

In terms of performance, my ranking (under optimal game optimization) is as follows: Xbox Series X > PS5 (Disc/Digital Edition)> Switch. The same order generally applies to graphics quality.

Let’s break down their features in detail:

1. Key Advantages

(1) PS5

The PS5’s biggest strength lies in its exceptional first-party games developed by Sony’s studios. Thanks to the strong reputation built during the PS4 era, it boasts a massive community of loyal fans. Its exclusive launch titles and premium membership games are absolute must-tries.

The PS5 Pro builds on the original with upgraded specs, delivering stunning visuals. Its controller is ergonomically designed with excellent haptics, creating a deeply immersive experience. Exclusive titles like the God of War series shine with compelling storylines and top-tier graphics.

Most PS5 games tend to feature realistic art styles. Standout exclusives and launch titles include God of War Ragnarök, Elden Ring, Ghost of Tsushima, Marvel’s Spider-Man, Battlefield, Bloodborne, Horizon, and Gran Turismo.

As Sony’s latest console, the PS5 offers powerful performance, supporting up to 4K resolution at 120fps. Its controller features adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, enhancing immersion. If you’re an action game enthusiast or a story-driven player who values narrative depth, the PS5 is ideal.

Note: The PS5 requires a TV connection and is limited to stationary use with no portability.

(2) Xbox

Xbox consoles are known for their robust performance, with two main models: Xbox Series X (XSX) and Xbox Series S (XSS). The XSX outperforms the PS5, while the XSS is more compact but slightly less powerful.

Xbox offers great value for gaming: with an Xbox Game Pass (XGP) subscription, you get unlimited access to hundreds of games—including newly released titles—for the duration of your membership.

If budget allows, the Xbox Series X is recommended for its stable frame rates, making it perfect for fans of large-scale AAA games. Enjoy exclusives like Forza Horizon and Starfield on a platform that updates new titles quickly, offering excellent cost performance (cost-effectiveness).

Xbox also excels at motion-controlled games. I particularly enjoy Fruit Ninja and Just Dance 2015—a few rounds double as a workout! Here’s hoping Black Myth: Wukong comes to Xbox soon!

Note: The Xbox Series S is not recommended due to performance issues that hinder gameplaylearn through practice(experience).

(3) Switch

The Switch’s biggest advantage is its portability: compact, lightweight, and with detachable controllers, it’s as easy to carry as a phone. It works both as a handheld device and a home console when connected to a TV—essentially a TV-compatible handheld.

Portability is a game-changer. It’s size fits easily in any bag, even a winter coat pocket—perfect for gaming on the go. Just last week, I played it on a high-speed train, and the kid next to me was completely absorbed watching!

Nintendo’s iconic franchises like The Legend of Zelda and Mario deliver exceptional gameplay. For me, the Switch’s greatest strength is its multiplayer and family-friendly games. My first Switch game, Mario Party, had the whole family gathered around, laughing nonstop.

Games like Ring Fit Adventure let you exercise at home, and its portability means I can even bring it to work for quick sessions during breaks—pure joy!

Of course, the Switch has drawbacks:

• Its screen feels outdated. The 720p resolution was acceptable at launch but falls short today (here’s hoping the next-gen model upgrades to 2K in 2025! 🤩). Low resolution aside, frame rates are inconsistent—Nintendo’s first-party games hold up, but ported titles often suffer from choppy performance, which is frustrating.

• Online connectivity is a hassle. Digital games require internet downloads, and Japanese-region Switches make this worse—you’ll need to manually configure DNS settings. Downloads can be lightning-fast with luck, but slow enough to wait all night otherwise.

2. Release Timelines

• The PS5 and the latest Xbox Series X launched in late 2020, while the original Switch debuted in 2017. The Switch 2 is set to release in June 2025. Consoles typically have a 6–8 year lifecycle, so the PS5 and XSX are in their prime, while the current Switch is nearing the end of its lifespan.
• Performance-wise, the PS5 and Xbox are next-gen consoles, theoretically supporting 4K gaming at 60fps. The Switch, however, runs at 720p in handheld mode and 1080p when docked—significantly behind even the PS4.

3. Game Libraries: The Most Important Factor!

The games available should drive your decision:

• PS5 highlights: God of War, The Last of Us, Horizon, Uncharted, Marvel’s Spider-Man (these were once exclusives but now also release on PC; future exclusives will likely hit PC 1–2 years later).
• Xbox standouts: Halo, Gears of War, Forza (similar to PS5, these now also release on PC).

How to Choose

1. Start by listing the games you most want to play, then see which platform has more exclusives for those titles.
2. Consider your priorities for the console: Do you value easy repairs, or a broader variety of games?
3. If you already own a high-performance PC, you can likely skip Xbox—most Xbox games are available on PC, with few true exclusives.

Compare options, test them if possible, and find what fits you. Here’s to endless fun in the gaming world!