Which console is best for competitive gaming? A ranking of every modern machine

In 2025, the video game market is filled with great consoles. While the Xbox Series is the perfect choice for those seeking access to Game Pass, the Nintendo Switch 2 opens up the world of portable gaming to millions of players.

This guide will lay out the differences between each console and help you pick your dream device. If you’re seeking the best console for competitive gaming, read on to find out which machine is right for you.

Competitive video games are often difficult to run at high frame rates and resolutions because they feature multiple players on screen at once and may even fit the player base into an open world, similar to Fortnite or other battle royales. You’ll need the most powerful console and a comfortable controller to compete effectively online, and your practice time in casual matches is what will help determine your esports potential in the future.

When looking at which gaming consoles are best for competitive play, many factors need to be taken into consideration. For example, the Switch 2’s portability is a fantastic feature, but it’s not particularly useful for aspiring esports athletes, especially since you need a strong connection to perform the best in PvP video games. Overall, the specs, controller, and game library determine which console a competitive gamer should choose, and like most things, there’s no one-size-fits-all option.

As of 2025, most gamers consider there to be three core consoles that dominate the video game market, including the Xbox Series X/S, the PlayStation 5 Pro, and the Nintendo Switch 2. Though all have unique features to aid you in your gaming journey, not every console is created equal, and that’s especially true regarding performance in competitive video games.

Tip: All of the consoles below require a subscription fee to access online play. This requirement may be unnecessary for certain free-to-play titles.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is a marvel, but it lacks the power necessary to run every game at a consistent 60 frames per second. Its ability to play on the go is ideal for travelling gamers, and it offers an easy way for aspiring esports athletes to practice while away from home.

On the flip side, the Switch 2 lacks the expansive library that both Xbox and PlayStation already have available, primarily due to its young age as a new console. Luckily, many free-to-play shooters are already available on the Switch 2, like Apex Legends and Fortnite. If you want to go pro, then a casual device like the Switch or Switch 2 isn’t the best, but it can act as the perfect transitional device into the world of multiplayer gaming.

Nintendo Switch 2 Price: $449.99

Tip: Though the Switch 1 is great for casual play, it lacks the power to run many popular games, so it’s not worth buying now if you’re specifically seeking to play the latest multiplayer titles from third-party developers.

Microsoft currently offers the Xbox Series X and S. While both are great consoles, the Series X is physically larger and is slightly more powerful, allowing your games to look better and even run faster in certain instances. Xbox has Game Pass, a subscription that offers access to hundreds of action-packed games for a monthly subscription fee, making it easy to try new multiplayer titles.

Whether your game of choice is Fortnite, Call of Duty, or Mortal Kombat, the Xbox Series can run it well. The Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller is also a selling point for competitive gamers since it offers so many features fit for an esports athlete, such as the ability to customise its buttons to fit your personal needs. FPS athletes have been switching over to controllers in recent years, so an Xbox Series S/X is a strong choice for the dedicated online player, especially if you’re willing to pay an extra $199.99 for the Elite Controller.

Xbox Series S Price: $379.99

Xbox Series X (Disc Drive) Price: $599.99

The PlayStation 5 Pro is, without a doubt, the strongest console on the market in 2025. It can run most titles at 60 FPS or higher, and unlike the previous two machines, it’ll likely continue to provide top performance for new games for many years to come. At $699.99, the PS5 Pro’s biggest disadvantage is its price, especially since many high-quality PCs fall within that range, though the PlayStation Plus subscription does grant access to a library of games at a relatively low price.

The PS5’s DualSense controller is comfortable and light, making it easy to hold. If you want to take your performance to the next level, then the DualSense Edge will help you build a customised controller, though it costs an extra $199.99. The base PS5 Slim is a good console, too, but nothing beats the longevity or power of the PlayStation 5 Pro in 2025.

PlayStation 5 Slim Price: $499.99

PlayStation 5 Pro Price: $699.99

As the esports industry gains traction, so does the number of gamers seeking to make a name for themselves in competitive gaming. Regardless of which console you choose, you’ll have access to dozens of online video games, many of which host tournaments for the best players.

If you’re looking to start your adventure in the world of competitive esports, then consider a PS5 Pro or Xbox Series X, as you’ll need a powerful console to compete on an even playing field.