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Close-up of a PlayStation controller resting on the console, highlighting its ergonomic design and user-friendly buttons, perfect as part of the best gaming console for beginners.

The 5 Best Gaming Consoles for Beginners in 2024

Picking the best gaming console for beginners is an exciting path to the universe of video games. Whether you’d like to be if the flow or have all available options boxed, picking the correct console is critical if you want to play video games simply.

For individuals with an on-the-go lifestyle, the Nintendo Switch is the best option. Available game titles include Super Mario Odyssey, a game appropriate for people of all abilities and ages.

On the other hand, the Xbox Series consoles would be a strong alternative if they prefer a traditional lifestyle. A subscription-based Xbox Game Pass offers a wide selection of games, such as Call of Duty and hundreds of PC competitors.

Buying a few or more games may be expensive and sometimes produce a low-quality game if the consumer is just beginning. So start thinking about which games you want to play and how you will utilize the system before buying your first gaming companion.

Do not forget to check the prices of the products on Amazon! We do not include discounted prices so as not to mislead you.

Our Top Picks

We provide our product links with Amazon assurance whenever possible.

Best Price$199
PlayStation 5
$558Amazon
Nintendo Switch
$300Amazon
Logitech G Cloud Handheld
$294Amazon
Xbox Series X
$449Amazon
Quest 2 VR
$199Amazon


Best Overall: PlayStation 5

PlayStation 5 has stunning speed and stunning visuals. This great console will provide the player with a seamless and comfortable gaming experience; its design, game library, and functionality will leave no one indifferent, this console will be appreciated by fans and ordinary people, every moment of the game to you will remain unforgettable.

The PlayStation 5 console box and the actual console with its controller, recommended as the best gaming console for beginners seeking high-end gaming experiences.

Specifications:

  • CPU: 8-core AMD Zen 2, up to 3.5 GHz
  • Memory: 16 GB GDDR6
  • Storage: 825 GB SSD, expandable
  • Graphics: AMD RDNA 2, up to 2.23 GHz, 10.3 TFLOPS
  • Audio: 3D, Dolby Atmos
  • Controller: DualSense, haptic feedback
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1
  • Compatibility: Plays PS4 games
Pros Lightning-fast SSD Immersive 3D audio Extensive game library
Cons Limited storage capacity Heavier design Higher price point

Who Is It For?

The PlayStation 5 is for those gamers who want the highest point of gaming technology. If you desire lightning fast load times, stunning visuals, and a sizeable catalog of games to keep you entertained, this is the place to be.

The PS5 is perfect for: hard-core gamers eager to experience cutting edge gaming technology and new titles casual gamers in the house looking to take up the challenge and have fun with next gen games families with youngsters.


Best Portable: Nintendo Switch

Picture this: A console allows you to play video games anywhere, shifting from console to-portable gaming in the blink of an eye. This is the case with the Nintendo Switch, which makes it simple to play and exciting to go on all our gaming trips.

It’s a dream come true for anyone who likes video games but does not want to be restricted to playing things like Super Mario, Odyssey or Call of Duty.

The Nintendo Switch console box and the console with red and blue controllers, ideal as the best gaming console for beginners with its intuitive interface.

Specifications:

  • Screen: 6.2-inch LCD, 1280×720 resolution
  • CPU/GPU: NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor
  • Storage: 32 GB, expandable via microSDHC or microSDXC cards up to 2TB
  • Battery Life: 4.5 – 9 hours, depending on the game
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth 4.1
  • Video Output: 1080p in TV mode, 720p in handheld/tabletop mode
  • Audio: Stereo speakers, 5.1ch Linear PCM output via HDMI
  • Weight: Approximately .66 lbs (with Joy-Con attached)​ (Nintendo Site)​​ (Wikipedia)​​ (Nintendo Site)​
Pros Versatile Gameplay Expansive Game Library Innovative Controllers
Cons Limited Battery Fragile Joy-Cons Fixed Internal Storage

Who Is It For?

The Nintendo Switch is ideal for those who are gamers or looking to play while on the run in a more relaxed atmosphere.

It’s the only video game console with this kind of versatility, allowing you to play your favorite games at home or take them on a plane as a handheld gaming gadget.

Provisioning with a subscription service like Xbox Game Pass extends your access to a plethora of video games.


Best Cloud Gaming Option: Logitech G Cloud Handheld

Introducing Logitech G Cloud Handheld: your sleek portal to the infinite world of cloud gaming. Think about being able to play your favorite PC or console game on your hand whenever and wherever you want.

This dream-handheld-games-device emphasizes the concept of “on the go” in a unique way: with this gadget, you will not need all those heavy hardware items to play games. It’s a kind of magic window into a world where every game you want to play is in front of you.

The Logitech G Cloud Handheld console displayed on a white background, considered one of the best gaming consoles for beginners due to its user-friendly design.

Specifications:

  • CPU: ARM 2xA76(2.3GHz), 6xA55(1.8GHz)
  • GPU: Adreno 618 750MHz
  • Memory: 4GB LPDDR4X
  • Storage: 64GB UFS, expandable via microSD
  • Display: 7” 1080P FHD IPS, 450 nits brightness
  • Battery Life: ~12 hours on a single charge
  • Connectivity: WiFi 2X2 MIMO, Bluetooth 5.1
  • Weight: 463g (16.33 oz)​ (Logitech Support)​.
Pros Lightweight Design Long Battery Life High-Resolution Display
Cons Limited Onboard Storage Mid-Range CPU Android 11 OS

Who Is It For?

For those who envision a universe where their game arsenal is free to play without hindrance, the Logitech G Cloud Handheld is for you.

This is intended doing dabbing down on Call of Duty to take a break, or soothing with some super Mario Odyssey between classes, Logitech G Cloud Handheld is your gateway to gaming paradise.

With phenomenal battery life and an easily portable design , you can take your games, wherever you go. Your free time becomes playtime with no need for an unwieldy video game console or computer.

Game like never before with unrestricted access to a single big subscription service vault, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, from any location.


Honorable Mention: Xbox Series X

Welcome to the future of high-powered gaming with Xbox Series X! Here you are with lightning-fast load times; deeper, more vibrant living visuals; and an enormous library of games.

Xbox Series X is more than just a gaming console, offering you an all-time access ticket to experience a new universe of gaming. If you are chasing an impossible fast third-person shooter, sweeping through massive crowds, or taking your first steps in a new world Xbox Series X provides you the best gaming experience to date.

The Xbox Series X console with its controller, showcasing its modern design as one of the best gaming consoles for beginners in the next-generation gaming category.

Specifications:

  • Processor: 8-core AMD Zen 2 CPU at 3.8GHz
  • Graphics: AMD RDNA 2 GPU, 12 TFLOPS, 52 CUs at 1.825GHz
  • Memory: 16GB GDDR6
  • Storage: 1TB Custom NVME SSD, with speeds up to 2.4GB/s (raw), 4.8GB/s (compressed)
  • Expandable Storage: 1TB Expansion Card
  • Optical Drive: 4K UHD Blu-Ray
  • Resolution: 4K at 60fps, up to 120fps; 8K ready
  • Ray Tracing: Yes, for more realistic lighting and shadows
Pros Quick Resume Backwards Compatibility Ray Tracing Support
Cons Higher Price Large Size Limited Exclusives

Who Is It For?

The console was built with the gamer in mind, the type of player who values speed and performance in combination with beautiful visuals.

Whether you’re a serious gamer seeking to install and play new releases in their full splendor, or you’re a casual gamer seeking a smooth, gentle gaming experience, the Xbox Series X was made for people like you.


Best VR Experience: Quest 2 VR

Experience a reality that goes beyond the seating hall of your home! Quest 2 VR allows gamers to explore, not just any video game console, but a world of exciting experiences and thousands of games you must play.

Using advanced technology, Quest 2 VR facilitates unparalleled gaming with a handheld device, which ensures every gaming experience is memorable and worth the while. An incredible choice for gamers of all ages, lightweight, easy to use, transforms video game sessions.

The Quest 2 VR headset and controllers alongside its packaging, an excellent choice for beginners looking for the best gaming console in virtual reality.

Specifications:

  • Display: Fast-Switch LCD, 1832×1920 resolution per eye
  • Refresh Rate: 60, 72, 90 Hz, adaptable for fluid visual experience
  • Audio: Integrated positional audio for a more immersive gaming experience
  • Weight: Light enough for long gaming sessions without discomfort
  • Storage Options: 64GB or 256GB, ample space for your game library
  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 for top-notch performance
  • Battery: Built-in rechargeable battery for extended playtime
  • Tracking: Precision tracking with 4-camera Oculus Insight technology
Pros Wireless Freedom High Resolution Extensive Game Library
Cons Limited Battery Life Initial Cost External Accessories Needed

Who Is It For?

Quest 2 VR is an ideal variant for everyone willing to reach new gaming peaks. With a rich background striving to take the experience to the next level or a young individual enthusiastic about trying VR finally, it would be the best stopping place for you.

Numerous options and facilities make it attractive for novice users and possess numerous advanced characteristics to impress even an experienced player with the game pass ultimate library.

Walking through endless realms and playing Call of Duty or living in the same kingdom with Supper Mario Odyssey provides friends and family with countless opportunities for shared and personal gaming.


What I Wish I Knew Before I Got The Gaming Console?

  1. Read reviews before purchasing: Avoid purchasing a console on impulse due to excitement or a fear of missing out.
  2. Consider the game types you prefer: Different consoles tend to be better in different types of games. Make sure that your preferred types are well-represented on the console.
  3. Do not take promised exclusives into account: Many of these games get delayed or even cancelled. Do not let non-existent games decide your purchase.
  4. Do not be fooled by the marketing deals: Marketing deals that give one console access to exclusive content can sound tempting but might not cater to your tastes.
  5. Do friends play on consoles? Online multiplayer and game sharing are reasons enough to buy the same console your friends have.
  6. Remember about the accessories: The total cost can be heavily impacted by the need to purchase additional controllers or an external hard drive for your console.
  7. Evaluate online services and features: Consider how much you value online play, voice chat, and other services. These can vary between consoles.

Which gaming console is best for me?

Your choice of gaming console will depend on your favorite games and play style. If you want a large pool of games and an immersive experience that includes not only console titles but also PC games, Xbox’s Xbox Series is right for you thanks to Xbox Game Pass. It has everything from “Call of Duty” to indie games.

On the other hand, if you prefer to play on the go, Switch, Nintendo’s latest console, offers the full “Super Mario Odyssey” experience and other popular games on the go, effectively merging traditional gaming and mobile gaming.

Which console for casual gaming?

The best gaming console for beginners who are just starting their gaming journey is the Nintendo Switch, which combines the best user friendly qualities and an extensive range of games.

It has the ability to switch between portable and TV gaming smoothly and a controller that is among the simplest to understand. The game library includes vivid exclusive series including Mario and Zelda that cater to gamers of all ages.

Despite less powerful visuals than Sony and Microsoft rivals, the relatively low cost and pleasant user interface allow the Switch to be the optimal choice for novices.

Emily Thompson is a passionate technology enthusiast and skilled reviewer, deeply knowledgeable about every niche within the tech world. Emily's expertise and keen eye for detail make her an invaluable guide for anyone looking to understand or purchase tech products. The products listed in this article were chosen according to our expert tests.