What is the most sold console of all time?

In the world of video games, consoles come and go, but only a few manage to stand the test of time and secure a place as the best-selling gaming systems of all time. Today, we’ll explore which console holds that crown and dive into what made it so successful.

1. The Nintendo Switch: A Modern Phenomenon

As of 2025, the Nintendo Switch holds the title as the best-selling console of all time. With over 140 million units sold worldwide, the hybrid console has outpaced many of its competitors to claim the top spot. Launched in 2017, the Switch revolutionized the gaming landscape by offering both portable and home gaming experiences in one device.

Why the Switch is so Popular:

• Versatility: The Nintendo Switch is unique in its hybrid design, allowing players to dock the console for a home gaming experience or undock it to take it on the go. This flexibility has made it a hit among gamers who want to enjoy their favorite titles wherever they are.

• Game Library: Nintendo’s vast library of first-party titles, such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons, are huge draws for players. These games are not only beloved but continue to be highly influential in the gaming world.

• Affordable Price Point: Compared to other high-performance consoles, the Nintendo Switch is relatively affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers. Its entry-level price makes it a fantastic option for those looking for quality gaming without breaking the bank.

• Adaptability: The Switch has continually adapted to consumer needs, releasing updated versions like the Nintendo Switch Lite and the Nintendo Switch OLED model, each adding more appeal to different types of players.

2. The PlayStation 2: The Legacy Lives On

Before the Nintendo Switch took the crown, the PlayStation 2 (PS2) was the undisputed king of consoles, holding the title of the best-selling console for nearly two decades. With over 155 million units sold globally, it remains one of the most iconic and successful consoles in history.

Why the PS2 Was a Game-Changer:

• Huge Game Library: The PS2 boasted one of the most extensive libraries in console history, with over 3,800 games. Notable franchises like Grand Theft Auto, Final Fantasy, and Gran Turismo contributed to its massive success.

• DVD Playback: At the time of its release, the PS2 wasn’t just a gaming console; it was also a DVD player. This feature attracted a wider audience, appealing to people who might not have otherwise considered purchasing a gaming console.

• Third-Party Support: Sony’s strong partnerships with third-party developers meant that the PS2 received a constant flow of popular games. This ensured that the system maintained its relevance and continued to attract new players year after year.

• Affordable & Durable: The PS2 was affordable and offered incredible longevity. Many PS2 consoles are still functional today, and the system’s continued use in various regions around the world speaks to its durability.

3. The Nintendo DS: Dominating the Handheld Market

Another Nintendo console, the Nintendo DS, deserves a mention as one of the best-selling consoles of all time. With over 154 million units sold, the DS was a game-changing handheld system.

Why the DS Was So Successful:

• Dual Screens: The DS’s dual-screen feature, with one being a touchscreen, was revolutionary and added a unique gameplay element that no other system had at the time. It brought creativity and innovation to handheld gaming.

• Portable Gaming for Everyone: The DS appealed to a wide range of gamers, from young children to adults, with its diverse game library that catered to all interests. Pokémon, The Legend of Zelda, and Brain Age were some of the most successful titles that helped the DS remain a staple in gaming culture.

4. PlayStation 4: Sony’s Modern Triumph

Following the PS2’s reign, the PlayStation 4 (PS4) became the best-selling console of its generation, reaching over 117 million units sold. Its success can be attributed to several key factors:

• Strong Exclusives: The PS4 is home to some of the best exclusive titles in recent years, including The Last of Us Part II, God of War, and Spider-Man. These games alone were often reason enough for players to purchase the system.

• Online Features & Streaming: With the rise of digital gaming and streaming services like PlayStation Now, the PS4 offered a complete entertainment package, integrating both gaming and media streaming seamlessly.

• Affordable and Powerful: The PS4 offered excellent performance at a competitive price point, particularly when compared to rival systems like the Xbox One. Its ability to deliver immersive experiences with powerful hardware made it the go-to choice for many gamers.

5. The Xbox 360: Microsoft’s Flagship Console

The Xbox 360 was another major contender in the console wars, with over 85 million units sold. Launched in 2005, it helped establish Xbox as a major player in the gaming industry and laid the foundation for the future of online gaming.

Why the Xbox 360 Was So Popular:

• Xbox Live: The Xbox 360 revolutionized online multiplayer gaming with the introduction of Xbox Live. This feature allowed players to connect with others around the world and engage in competitive gaming, which was a significant draw for the console.

• Multimedia Capabilities: The Xbox 360 wasn’t just about gaming; it also allowed users to stream movies, music, and TV shows, making it a versatile entertainment hub.

• Impressive Game Library: With a solid library of games, including titles like Halo 3, Gears of War, and Fable II, the Xbox 360 earned a reputation as a go-to console for mature and action-oriented games.

Final Thoughts: Why These Consoles Dominate

The best-selling consoles of all time share several traits: a broad, diverse game library, appealing pricing, and innovative features that captured the hearts of millions. From the versatility of the Nintendo Switch to the legacy of the PlayStation 2, these consoles shaped the gaming world and created unforgettable experiences for generations of players.

Looking ahead, the landscape of gaming will continue to evolve, but these systems remain pillars of gaming history, and their sales success is a testament to the impact they’ve had on the global gaming community.