The Best Game Consoles of 2026: Which One Should You Buy?
Introduction: Why Your Console Choice Matters
Buying a games console isn't like picking up a new phone. Consoles are a longer-term investment than devices like smartphones, and they typically last five years or more. The machine you choose today could be the centre of your living room, or your commute, for a long time.
The good news is that leading expert buying guides from Stuff, The Telegraph and EE largely agree on a consistent set of top picks. Below, we break down which consoles they recommend and who each one suits best.
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Best Overall: PlayStation 5
The PlayStation 5 is named the best overall console across multiple expert guides, and it's easy to see why. Reviewers credit it with strong exclusive games, which remain one of the biggest reasons to choose one platform over another.
The DualSense controller is another key highlight. For most players looking for a well-rounded machine, the PS5 is the safest recommendation.
Most Powerful: PlayStation 5 Pro
If raw performance is your priority, the PlayStation 5 Pro is named the most powerful games console available. That power comes at a premium, though. The most powerful PlayStation costs £700, which makes it a serious investment best suited to players who want the very best from their hardware.
Best Value: Xbox Series S
At the other end of the price scale, the Xbox Series S is recommended as the best value or budget console. It costs £300, less than half the price of the PlayStation 5 Pro.
Despite that lower price, the Series S can play many of the same games as the most powerful PlayStation. That makes it a compelling option for anyone who wants modern gaming without the premium price tag.
What Xbox Brings to the Table
Beyond the hardware, Xbox offers several features that make its ecosystem stand out:
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: Access to hundreds of games for £16.99 a month, including all Xbox exclusives on day one.
- Backwards compatibility: Xbox Series consoles can play Xbox 360 and original Xbox games, so older libraries aren't left behind.
- Quick Resume: This feature lets players switch between games.
The Xbox Series X also appears among the recommended consoles, so it's worth considering alongside the Series S if you're drawn to the Xbox ecosystem.
Best for Families: Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 is recommended as the best console for families. Nintendo's focus is on fun, flexibility and family-friendly gaming rather than raw power, which suits households where several players of different ages share a console.
The Nintendo Switch Lite also appears among the recommended consoles, so it's an option worth knowing about if you're browsing Nintendo's range.
Best Handheld Alternative: Steam Deck OLED
The Steam Deck OLED is featured as a top handheld option. Strictly speaking, it isn't a traditional console. As The Telegraph notes, the Steam Deck is technically a mini PC optimised for handheld gaming. That makes it an interesting choice for players who want PC gaming they can carry around.
Quick Picks: Which Console Is Right for You?
- Best overall: PlayStation 5
- Most powerful: PlayStation 5 Pro (£700)
- Best value: Xbox Series S (£300)
- Best for families: Nintendo Switch 2
- Best handheld PC option: Steam Deck OLED
Whichever you choose, remember that a console is a long-term purchase. Pick the one that best fits your budget, the games you want to play and the people you'll be playing with.