What is the newest video game console?

The newest video game consoles as of 2024 are the Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 (PS5), both released in November 2020, and they are still leading the market in terms of technology, performance, and popularity. However, while these consoles are relatively new, the Nintendo Switch OLED model, which was released in October 2021, is also considered a recent addition due to its upgraded screen and improved performance.

That said, the newest models or versions in the market now include:

1. Xbox Series X|S (2024)

• Xbox Series X is the flagship model, offering the most powerful performance with 4K gaming, 120Hz refresh rate, and support for 8K output.
• Xbox Series S is the more affordable model with a smaller form factor and a digital-only experience.

Key Features:

• Backward compatibility with Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games.
• Enhanced support for cloud gaming and Xbox Game Pass, Microsoft’s subscription service.
• The Xbox Series X has quick resume and Ray Tracing for ultra-realistic visuals.

Release: November 2020
Newest Update: Series S continues to get software updates, enhancing its performance for various games.

2. PlayStation 5 (PS5) (2024)

• The PS5 is Sony’s next-gen console, capable of 4K gaming, 120Hz refresh rates, and Ray Tracing.
• It features the DualSense controller, with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback that enhance immersion in games.

Key Features:

• Exclusive games like Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Horizon Forbidden West, and Demon’s Souls.
• PS VR2 compatibility for virtual reality gaming (released early 2023).
• High-speed SSD for near-instant loading times and smooth gameplay.

Release: November 2020
Newest Update: PS5 Digital Edition continues to offer a cheaper version without a disc drive, catering to digital game downloads and streaming.

3. Nintendo Switch OLED Model (2021)

• The Nintendo Switch OLED Model is the most recent upgrade to the Nintendo Switch console.
• It features a larger 7-inch OLED display, providing more vibrant colors and better contrast compared to the original LCD screen.

Key Features:

• The hybrid design allows users to play on the go or dock it to play on a TV.
• New adjustable stand for tabletop gaming.
• Enhanced audio for handheld mode, making the portable experience more immersive.

Release: October 2021
Newest Update: This model continues to be the latest iteration of the Switch with incremental hardware upgrades, making it a more premium version of the standard Nintendo Switch.

What’s Next?

While we’ve seen the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S dominate, rumors of next-gen consoles like a PS6 and the potential for Xbox Series Z have circulated in the gaming community. However, 2024 seems to be more about refining the existing systems, with updates such as Game Pass expansion for Xbox, and PS VR2 gaining momentum on PlayStation.

Conclusion

The newest consoles are still the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, released in 2020. They represent the latest technology with 4K gaming, SSD storage, and immersive controllers. However, if you’re looking for portability and unique gaming experiences, the Nintendo Switch OLED continues to be a standout option, especially for those who prefer a hybrid model.

For those looking ahead to next-gen consoles, it will likely be a few more years before we see the PS6 or another revolutionary console emerge. For now, the current crop of consoles offers an excellent gaming experience!