What is the best affordable console?

If you’re looking for the best affordable console in 2024, there are a few solid options across various price points. What’s considered "affordable" will depend on your budget, but here are some of the best choices for value for money:

1. Xbox Series S

• Price: Around $299 USD
• Why it's great:
  • Next-gen console at a budget price.
  • Offers 4K media playback (upscaled) and next-gen performance for most games, albeit with lower graphics quality than the Series X or PS5.
  • Has 512GB SSD for fast load times and decent storage, though it’s on the smaller side, so you might need an external drive.
  • Game Pass gives access to a massive library of games for a monthly fee, making it even more affordable in the long run.
• Ideal for: Those looking to enter the next-gen gaming world without breaking the bank.

2. Nintendo Switch

• Price: Around $299 USD for the regular model and $199 USD for the Switch Lite.
• Why it's great:
  • Hybrid design that allows you to play on the TV or on the go.
  • The Switch Lite is a more affordable, handheld-only version for $199, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious gamers.
  • Great game library, including exclusive titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Animal Crossing, and Splatoon 3.
  • The Switch is great for both casual and hardcore gamers, especially if you value portability.
• Ideal for: People who want a portable gaming experience or a console for family-friendly games and exclusives.

3. PlayStation 4 (PS4)

• Price: Around $250–$300 USD (new or used).
• Why it's great:
  • The PS4 still offers an excellent gaming experience with a huge game library, including classics like The Last of Us Part II, Spider-Man: Miles Morales, and Horizon Zero Dawn.
  • While it’s technically last-gen, it can handle most games well and has a more affordable price tag compared to the PS5.
  • It’s a great choice if you don’t mind playing on older hardware and want a solid, budget-friendly console with plenty of content.
• Ideal for: Those looking for a cheaper PlayStation experience without needing the latest hardware.

4. Xbox One S

• Price: Around $200–$250 USD (used or refurbished).
• Why it's great:
  • While older than the Xbox Series X/S, the Xbox One S offers solid 1080p gaming and media features like 4K streaming.
  • If you’re not looking for the latest and greatest but still want to enjoy Xbox Game Pass, the Xbox One S is a great budget choice.
  • It has access to many current-gen games, though they may not run as smoothly as they would on the Series X or PS5.
• Ideal for: Those on a tighter budget who still want an Xbox experience and access to Game Pass.

5. PlayStation 5 Digital Edition

• Price: Around $399 USD.
• Why it's great:
  • If you’re set on a PS5 but don’t need a disc drive, the PS5 Digital Edition offers the same performance as the standard PS5, but at a more affordable price.
  • It’s the next-gen PlayStation console, capable of 4K gaming, faster loading times, and stunning visuals.
  • However, it’s worth noting that without a disc drive, you’ll be dependent on digital downloads for all your games, which could be limiting if you prefer physical copies.
• Ideal for: Those who want a PS5 but are okay with a digital-only experience to save some money.

Best Overall Affordable Console:

If you’re looking for best value for money and access to next-gen gaming at a lower cost, the Xbox Series S stands out. It’s powerful, supports 4K upscaling, and gives you access to Xbox Game Pass, which makes it an excellent deal.

If you’re primarily a Nintendo fan or want a portable gaming experience, the Nintendo Switch is unbeatable, offering flexibility and exclusive games.

For those who want a PlayStation experience, the PS4 or PS5 Digital Edition offers solid options depending on your budget.