Gaming Systems: Buying Advice, Tips, and News
Whether you prefer a powerhouse gaming PC, a living-room console, or a portable handheld, today’s game systems offer more ways to play than ever before. PCMag's expert-tested reviews break down performance, game libraries, features, and value across the latest hardware, helping you choose the gaming platform that best fits your style and budget.
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Steam Deck and Beyond: Our Favorite Handheld Gaming PCsYou don't need a desktop or laptop to play the top PC titles. The top handheld SteamOS and Windows gaming PCs we've tested give you the power of a full-size computer in a highly portable package.
By Jordan Minor
Latest Gaming System Stories
Whether you have sight, hearing, motor, or vocal difficulties, the Switch 2 has features to help accommodate you. Here's how to access and use them.
The original Switch remains a revolutionary console-handheld hybrid with a strong library. The Switch 2 is even better, but more expensive—and it's about to get a lot pricier in September. I tell you which one is best after extensively testing both systems.
Over the past few months, Valve has shipped over 100 tons of hardware from overseas.
The longtime nemesis of gamers everywhere has finally fallen.
The PlayStation 5 Pro now costs at least $250 more than the base PS5—but does the enhanced ray tracing, upscaling, and frame rates make it the superior console and value? I break down the notable differences between the Sony systems to help you make a purchase that fits your budget.
The original Nintendo Switch is still an impressive home console and handheld, but you can expand its functionality with these cool accessories and peripherals.
I've discovered that the updated PlayStation Portal is a smart way to enjoy PS5 games without emptying my wallet due to the worsening RAM crisis.
This bundle includes the console, dock, and Joy-Cons, basically everything needed to start playing right away. Plus, it's now marked down by 33% off the MSRP.
The next time you have a problem with a game install, it's possible a chatbot will help you solve it.
SteamOS and incoming Steam Machines are only likely to accelerate the trend.
The PS5 Pro is going up to $899. It's the second price increase for the PlayStation consoles after an initial price bump in August.
The PS5 Pro will soon be $900, forcing many gamers to stick with their older console. If you have time to tinker, here's how to install an SSD in your PS4 to give it a speed boost.
At GDC, Xbox VP Jason Ronald lays out the company's vision for the future of Microsoft's console.
Despite a pessimistic sounding now-deleted blog post highlighting challenges caused by the current memory shortage, Valve later said it still plans to ship the Steam Machine, Steam Controller, and Steam Frame in 2026.
Play thousands of retro and 3D games in 4K with dual systems and built-in Wi-Fi for under $100.
The PlayStation 5 Pro's extra (and expensive) processing power remains nebulous more than a year after the system's release.
The PlayStation 6 may not arrive until 2028 or 2029, sources tell Bloomberg.
The Sony PlayStation 5 is truly the gold standard of gaming consoles, with next level power and immersive gameplay. You can get it along with Fortnite and save 18% at Walmart right now.
The Switch 2 has more power and sharper graphics than its predecessor, but I'm also impressed by how much easier it is to share screenshots and videos.
Bazzite, Asus Linux, ShadowBlip, PikaOS, and Fyra Labs will work with other partners to jointly accelerate Linux gaming.
