If you’re thinking about picking up a gaming console in 2026 whether it’s for epic single-player adventures, online multiplayer, family fun, or portable gaming, you’re spoiled for choice. From powerhouse home systems to versatile handhelds, the gaming landscape this year offers something for everyone, and a few older favourites are still excellent picks too.
Below, we’ll walk through the best gaming consoles you can buy in 2026, what they excel at, and why they’re worth your attention especially if you’re in Europe and planning your next big purchase.
1. Sony PlayStation 5 Pro - Best Overall Console for Power Players
For gamers who want top-tier performance and stunning visuals, the PlayStation 5 Pro is hard to beat in 2026. This enhanced version of the PS5 delivers native 4K gaming with ray tracing, faster load times, and AI-driven upscaling that makes games look sharp and run smoothly on high-refresh-rate TVs and monitors.
Why it’s great:
Excellent performance for AAA titles and exclusives
Large and growing library of first-party games
Backward compatibility with most PS4 titles
A strong ecosystem with PlayStation Plus and cloud features
Best for: Hardcore gamers who want visual fidelity and robust hardware
2. Sony PlayStation 5 Slim - Best Balanced Choice
If you want next-gen power without spending top-tier prices, the PS5 Slim remains one of the most versatile consoles in 2026. It packs the core PS5 experience with great performance, advanced controller features, and access to big PlayStation exclusives in a more compact form factor.
Why it’s great:
Excellent all-around performance for most gamers
Slightly smaller footprint and improved efficiency
Works with the full PS5 game library
Best for: Most players looking for balanced performance and value
3. Nintendo Switch 2 - Best for Play Anywhere Fun
Looking for games you can play at home or on the go? The Nintendo Switch 2 builds on the success of the original Switch with better screen tech, improved performance, and a fantastic lineup of titles spanning Mario, Zelda, Metroid, and more.
Why it’s great:
True hybrid design (handheld + TV docked mode)
Exclusive games that appeal to all ages
Lots of local multiplayer fun
Best for: Families, casual gamers, and anyone who loves portable gaming
4. Microsoft Xbox Series X - Best for Game Pass and Value
The Xbox Series X remains a strong choice in 2026 thanks to its power and the Xbox Game Pass subscription service, which gives you access to hundreds of games including many day-one releases.
Why it’s great:
Excellent hardware that handles 4K gaming
Game Pass offers huge value for ongoing play
Strong backward compatibility across Xbox generations
Best for: Game Pass subscribers and library-first gamers
5. Xbox Series S - Best Budget Next-Gen Console
Want next-generation gaming without the premium price? The Xbox Series S provides solid performance at a lower cost, making it a great starter console or a secondary system for gaming on a second TV.
Why it’s great:
Affordable price point
Supports most Xbox Series X games (played at 1440p)
Access to Game Pass and great digital titles
Best for: Budget-conscious gamers and households with multiple players
6. Steam Deck OLED - Best Handheld for PC Gaming on the Go
For players who love PC games but want a portable experience, the Steam Deck OLED continues to be a standout choice in 2026. It runs PC gaming libraries with flexible controls, great display quality, and SteamOS that’s optimized for gaming on small screens.
Why it’s great:
Access to a massive PC game library on the go
Solid hardware and ergonomic design
Great OLED screen and performance balance
Best for: PC gamers who travel or want portable play
7. ROG Xbox Ally - Best Handheld for Xbox & PC Enthusiasts
One of the newcomers gaining traction is the ROG Xbox Ally, a handheld gaming PC developed with ASUS and Microsoft that brings Windows 11 gaming and Xbox Cloud support into a portable chassis.
Why it’s great:
Portable gaming with broad game compatibility
Supports Xbox Cloud Gaming for streaming AAA titles
Comfortable handheld design
Best for: Gamers who want console and PC titles in one handheld
8. Lenovo Legion Go and Similar High-End Handhelds
The handheld gaming space is expanding with powerful devices like the Lenovo Legion Go and other SteamOS or Windows-powered systems that deliver excellent performance and flexibility outside traditional console formats.
Why it’s great:
Strong hardware for demanding games
Larger screens and premium features
Great option if you like PC gaming without a desktop
Best for: Portable performance and cross-library gaming
How to Pick the Right Console for You
Here’s a friendly breakdown depending on your gaming style:
All-round Play and Exclusives:
Sony’s PS5 range (Pro and Slim) offers unmatched variety and graphical performance.
Value and Game Library:
Xbox Series X and Series S shine thanks to Game Pass and backward compatibility.
Portable and Hybrid Gaming:
Nintendo Switch 2 is unmatched for flexibility and family-friendly fun.
Handheld Power Users:
Steam Deck OLED, ROG Xbox Ally, and Lenovo Legion Go bring serious gaming to the road.
Final Thoughts
2026 is a great year to be a gamer. The consoles available now offer powerful hardware, rich game libraries, and choices for every budget and playstyle from living room setups to portable gaming on trains or flights.
Whether you’re chasing stunning 4K visuals, love mobile gaming, or want extra value through game subscriptions, there’s a console for you. And while the next generation (like PlayStation 6 or a new Xbox) may be on the horizon, today’s lineup still delivers fantastic experiences worth investing in.