Gaming PC or console: which is better?

PlayStation, Xbox or a gaming PC? All three are great for games. The right choice depends on your budget, the games you want, and what else you need the machine for. Here are the honest differences, good and bad, for each.

The cost to buy

A console usually costs less to buy than a gaming PC that plays the same games. That is a real advantage, and it is the main reason many people choose one. A gaming PC costs more up front, but you get a full computer as well as a games machine.

The cost of games and playing online

• Game prices: PC games are often cheaper, and PC game stores have frequent sales. Console games tend to stay at full price for longer.
• Online play: on PlayStation and Xbox you usually need a paid subscription for most online play. Free games such as Fortnite are often an exception. On a PC, most online play needs no subscription at all.

So a console is cheaper on day one, but a PC can catch up over the years, especially if you buy a lot of games.

Upgrading

A console stays the same until the maker brings out a new one. A PC can be upgraded a part at a time. When games start to feel slow, you can often fit a better graphics card instead of buying a whole new machine. Our guide on upgrading or replacing an old PC explains when that makes sense.

More than games

A PC is a full computer. It does homework, emails, office work, video calls, photo editing and more. A console is really only for games and films. If your family needs a computer anyway, one gaming PC can do both jobs.

Mods and choice

Mods are add-ons made by players that change or improve a game. They are a big part of PC gaming, in games like Minecraft and many others. Consoles have very few mods, or none. A PC also has a far bigger choice of games, including many small games you will not find on consoles.

Controller or keyboard and mouse

Consoles are made for a controller, which is comfortable on the sofa. A PC is usually played with a keyboard and mouse, which many people find more accurate in shooting games. But a PC can use a controller too. PlayStation and Xbox controllers both work with a Windows PC, so you can choose game by game.

Where a console wins

Be honest with yourself here. A console is simpler. You plug it into the TV, sign in and play. Every game is made for that exact machine, so there is nothing to check. Some games are only on one console. If you just want to play on the sofa with as little fuss as possible, a console is a very good choice.

Where a PC wins

A PC suits you if you want cheaper games over time, online play with no subscription, mods, the option to upgrade, or a computer for school and work as well. It also gives you the widest choice of games.

Our view

Neither is better for everyone. If you choose a PC, the screen matters too: read 1080p, 1440p or 4K before you buy. Buying for a young gamer? See our parent's guide. We build and test our PCs on our own bench in Worcester, and we will give you a straight answer if a console would suit you better.

Questions people ask