PC vs Console Gaming: Which is Better?
Every gamer is faced with a choice: PC vs console. Arguing about which one is better is the kind of debate that lights up message boards – which one is less expensive, has the best visuals, or has the best multiplayer competition? If you’re trying to decide between PC gaming vs console, we’ll break down each part of the debate to help you decide what’s best for you.
Whether you want to use a console or a PC, the important thing is to enjoy the game. Considerations like your budget, technical skills, and available upgrades should play a part in making your decision.
PC vs Console – the lowdown
Budget
PC and console gamers both want the most bang for their buck, but what that looks like and how it’s measured is different for each group. For a console gamer, costs are generally limited to purchasing the console, extra controllers, games, and perhaps online multiplayer passes. For a PC gamer, there’s a wide variety of options to buy if you choose to build your own computer, but not every PC gamer has their own custom-built machine.
Because there’s such a wide variety of possibilities and differences in perceived value, it’s impossible to say either PCs or consoles are more cost-efficient. It completely depends on the individual. The level of customization and performance you’re looking for determines the size your budget needs to be to get the platform you want.
Technical Skills
Generally, PC gamers need to have more technical skills than console gamers. Although it is possible to modify a console by adding new hardware, it’s not necessary. Console gamers do need to be able to install the sequel or update of their games. PC gamers need at least a minimal level of technical skills, even if they purchased a pre-built gaming computer. And by technical skills, we don’t mean the ability to write HTML code, but the ability to set up a computer with a general concept of how it operates. A PC gamer might also want to upgrade hardware components and install new drivers for those components, which calls for an intermediate skill level.
Upgrades
It is possible to add new hardware to a console with a minimal technical skill level. With a PC, the upgrades can be much more extensive. Each hardware component can be upgraded, along with other cosmetic features like the system’s case.
Advantages of console gaming
Consoles have advantages over PCs: They are easy to use, don’t require upgrades, make for simple multiplayer with console-owning friends, are generally cheaper, and use wireless controllers that allow you to have a more active experience.
Consoles are simple, easy to use, and cost less
Many gamers choose to play with a console because they are designed for easy set up and maintenance. Console gaming can start minutes after you remove the system from the box. There are no build times or technical skills needed to start having fun. Although the relative costs of consoles and PCs are debatable, generally, consoles cost less than gaming PCs.
Plus, newer consoles can be used to stream movies, TV shows, and music — adding another perk to owning a console.
You don’t have to upgrade hardware
Another advantage of console gaming is you can keep playing your games without worrying about hardware becoming obsolete. Unlike playing on a PC, which can require upgrades as PC games advance, consoles are built by the manufacturer with the necessary system requirements. However, console manufacturers will release new consoles in line with improvements in technology, so there is still a risk of old consoles not being supported for new games. The amount of time between new console releases depends on the manufacturer. So, console gamers will have to consider whether to upgrade or not when the latest system is released.
Additionally, many console gamers over time will have a collection of consoles to play games across systems. The lack of backwards compatibility, or the ability to play games released for previous generation consoles on newer generation machines, does mean players are often forced to upgrade.
Brings gaming to the masses, including improving multiplayer
Most of your friends have console systems, too. It’s easy to get friends together to play, and consoles are set up for multiplayer games.
PC gaming historically has been credited as the best for its online multiplayer functionality. However, consoles have since aimed to catch up with improvements with in-game communication and online game sharing, which is great for playing with friends. If it’s multiplayer gaming with friends you’re most interested in, you will need to consider which system your friends play on, as few consoles and games support cross-platform capability.
Console-exclusive titles
It’s true that some games are not available for PC, but rather remain console exclusives. Before committing to a console, consider which systems offer the games you love, as not all consoles offer the same range of games.
Wireless controllers
Wireless controllers allow you to be more active while playing.
Many consoles have games that increase your physical activity and skills.
Advantages of PC gaming
PCs have different advantages, including the ability to customize your PC, create hotkeys, sharper and more lifelike visuals, superior accuracy with peripherals, and greater ability to modify games.
You can customize PC hardware
By building your own gaming PC you can choose where, when and how much you want to invest in your computer. Some gamers invest in maintaining a very high-end computer, preferring to run the newest game releases at the highest possible settings. Others choose to invest in a budget gaming PC and upgrade only when required.
The three components that gamers typically invest and upgrade the most often include:
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Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) or graphics card which turns data into signals which are sent to the monitor. This data then creates the imagery or video you see on the screen.
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Memory (RAM): where game information is stored to be loaded or retrieved quickly. Here gamers consider how much RAM they might need, the frequency at which data can be transferred and speed (latency) of that information. Modern games generally require either 4GB or 8GB as the minimum RAM, newer games are now requiring 16GB and 32GB which helps ensure the best gameplay experience. What to know more about memory for your gaming PC? Find the best gaming memory for your gaming PC.
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Hard drive or Solid State Drive (SSD) is where game information, data, programs and other applications are stored on the computer permanently and retrieved when required. Most PC gamers prefer a solid state drive, as it provides greater speed, long term durability and reduces power consumption when compared to a hard drive.
The visuals are better
It’s one thing to dominate the competition, but it’s another to see it happen in the most stunning resolution possible.
Whether it’s with integrated graphics or with a graphics processing unit (GPU) or graphics card, you’re in control of how sharp the visuals are. On a PC, you can also game on multiple screens at one time.
Control the way you play: gaming peripherals
Unlike consoles, which can restrict the way you play, PC users benefit from a wide variety of controllers and mice to choose from. Gamers looking to kick back and relax can enjoy the freedom of wireless controllers, joysticks and even a steering wheel for racing games, like most consoles. However, when precision is key, PC users can utilize a gaming mouse. Gaming mice are particularly accurate, allowing you unrivalled control and accuracy during first-person shooter games. These are often favored by professional gamers who can’t afford to have anything less than perfect accuracy.
You can rescript your rig — or your game
You can change the physical appearance of your PC, and in many games, you can also modify gameplay by modding the game itself.
Imagine hunting down opponents on a new map or switching out different character skins to add more personality to your game. You can often download other gamers’ mods, so you don’t have to do any of the work yourself. It’s all possible when you dive deeper into gaming and get into mods.
Gaming mods
PC games cost less
While a lot of gamers think first about the cost of building a PC, one of the lesser discussed advantages of PC gaming is the cost of PC games. With many digital distribution platforms offering PC games, this offers gamers an option to shop around and many find that PC games are cheaper than their console-specific versions.
PC-exclusive titles
It’s true that some games remain console exclusives, but other popular games are PC exclusive as well. Just like with a console, before committing, consider which systems offer the games you love.
So, is a PC better than a console?
When considering the epic battle between console or PC, it’s important to consider not only budget, but what experience overall you are looking to have. As a gamer, are you most concerned with convenience? Or cost? Multi-player online gaming? Do you enjoy or would you be interested in upgrading a computer yourself? At Crucial® the answer is clear; PC gaming is king. It’s a better experience gaming on a PC than console due to all the advantages that PC gaming offers. No matter what you choose, the important thing is to play and have fun.
1One way to upgrade a console is to install an SSD, but, with some devices, this may void the device’s warranty. However, this is often a small price to pay for faster, more secure performance. Find out more about the benefits of upgrading your consoles SSD.
©2021 Micron Technology, Inc. All rights reserved. Information, products, and/or specifications are subject to change without notice. Neither Crucial nor Micron Technology, Inc. is responsible for omissions or errors in typography or photography. Micron, the Micron logo, Crucial, and the Crucial logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Micron Technology, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
can PC compete with Xbox Series X/S & PS5 in 2022?
Console vs PC gaming has become much more of a fair fight with the latest release of next-gen Xbox Series X and PS5 consoles. Now gamers can play in 4K at a fraction of the price
Updated: Aug 19, 2022 3:17 pm
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PC vs Console Gaming: Pricing
System Pricing
Display Pricing
Controller Pricing
Game Pricing
Membership Pricing
PC vs Console Gaming: Exclusive Games
PC vs Console: VR Gaming
PC vs Console Gaming: Upgradability
Upgrading Drives
Upgrading Everything Else
PC vs Console Gaming: Backwards Compatibility
PC Backwards Compatibility
Nintendo Backwards Compatibility
PlayStation Backwards Compatibility
Xbox Backwards Compatibility
PC vs Console Gaming: Warranty and Repairs
PC Warranty and Repairs
Console Warranty and Repairs
PC vs Console Gaming: Control Methods
Console Control Methods
PC Control Methods
PC vs Console Gaming: Accessibility
Console Accessibility
PC Accessibility
PC vs Console Gaming: Final Verdict
Pricing
Exclusive Games
VR Gaming
Upgradability
Backwards Compatibility
Warranty and Repairs
Control Methods
Accessibility
Conclusion
Why PC is Better Than Console
Why Console is Better Than PC
In the olden days of gaming, it was all about the Console Wars. Nintendo vs Sega. Nintendo vs Sony. With the turn of more recent generations, the Console Wars have become something closer to Sony vs Microsoft, with Nintendo focusing on providing its own experiences… but now, consoles aren’t the only fighters in the area.
PC has entered the fray. PC gaming has existed for decades, of course, but with the turn of the PS360 Generation and the emergence of Steam, PC has suddenly started competing with consoles in a way that hasn’t been seen before. The console war has calmed (well, for the most part), and is more or less over.
Now… it’s PC vs Xbox vs PlayStation. Today, we’re going to discuss where the contenders stand as of late 2019 and the current console generation– PS4/Xbox One–, and we’re going to tackle the battle from every possible perspective.
Enough chatter. Let’s actually start talking about the pros and cons of both PC gaming and console gaming.
PC vs Console Gaming: Pricing
First up, let’s talk pricing. For the sake of simplicity, let’s use the hardware power and performance of the PS4 as a baseline.
System Pricing
A new PC with gaming performance on par with the Xbox One and PS4 is going to cost you $400. A new PC on par with the Xbox One X is going to cost you $600. The PS4 costs $300, and the One X costs $500— so consoles win, right?
If we’re talking new, yes.
However, if we take used hardware into account… not quite. If you buy, say, a used pre-built office PC off of eBay for $100 and a console-equivalent GPU for another $100 (which you very much can do– check out our used GPU guide), you can get console performance for a lower price. Used consoles will retail for lower too, of course, but generally, you won’t get as-good deals out of them.
We’re leaning Used PC here, with Used Console in a close second and New PC in last. Upgradeability (discussed below) means that PCs can cost a lot more, but at that point you are choosing to invest in the diminishing returns seen at the higher end of a niche market; a higher end that consoles can’t compete with, mind you.
However, the price of the system alone isn’t all there is to take into account. Let’s continue to…
Display Pricing
Display pricing. For the sake of simplicity, let’s say you’re looking for a 1080p display, and you want a monitor for your PC and a TV for your console (although, you can use monitors for your console as well).
Buying new, PC definitely wins here. You can find new, gaming-ready monitors for right around $100 on PC. New 1080p HDTVs tend to cost $200 or higher, at least.
This fight gets a bit muddier with secondhand markets, though. Used HDTVs can be found secondhand for anywhere from $50-$150, but they often tend to be on the smaller side of the TV spectrum. Used 1080p monitors, meanwhile, tend to start at around $70-$80, making the barrier of entry slightly higher on this front.
Buying new, monitors take the cake. Buying used, TVs are a little bit better, but not by much. This is complicated by the different situations you might use them for, however, seeing as many people own TVs already and that monitors are better for pure gaming.
If you want to learn more about how TV and monitors compare for gaming purposes, read our article on the subject.
Controller Pricing
You can use console controllers for their respective consoles or with PC– no price comparison to be made for that particular scenario. An Xbox controller will cost the same whether you’re using it with an Xbox or a PC.
What we should talk about is how much it costs to have a good gaming experience on each platform.
Official controllers for the current-gen consoles cost anywhere from $50 to $70, depending on sales and the console of your choice. (One will usually be bundled with the console, however.) Third-party controllers are available for consoles, but these tend to cut on features and build quality significantly, especially on the lowest end. To be fair, though, let’s say a competent third party controller starts at $20.
A quality keyboard and mouse set from Logitech can be purchased for $15. While mechanical keyboards are nice, they don’t provide an objective improvement to gaming in the way that an official controller does versus a third party gamepad. Gaming mice can be an objective improvement, but even those can be found for as low as $30.
The winner here is pretty even, but we’ll give the edge to PC.
Game Pricing
First, let’s talk physical game pricing. In terms of new physical games, PC and console are pretty much equal here. In terms of used physical games, the PC doesn’t really compete at all… used modern console games, meanwhile, can retail for as low as $10-$15. Moreover, there are usually fewer options to purchase physical PC games.
Speaking of fewer options, in terms of digital games… it’s not even a competition. PC wins this hands-down. Steam is downright infamous for its sales, which are frequent and offer severe discounts on even recent AAA games. Steam also has competitor storefronts, like GOG and Humble Indie Bundle, which help drive down prices across the board and encourage more sales.
This isn’t even mentioning the modding community, which is arguably worth its own point, and which is free despite adding a ton of value to many games, like Skyrim or Don’t Starve.
Consoles are restricted to their respective online marketplaces, and because of this, there’s no competition there. Many digital games will retail for the same price as physical copies of the game at launch (and may never see a real decrease in price except for sporadic sales), and sales aren’t nearly as numerous or generous on console as they are on PC.
Membership Pricing
Honestly, this shouldn’t be a competition, but we’re here. PC doesn’t charge you to play online, period. PC wins this category.
The consoles all charge for online play at this point. Using annual memberships, Nintendo charges the least (at $20 per year), while both Xbox and PlayStation charge the most (at $60 a year). Xbox and PlayStation do provide monthly games to help soften the blow as well as extra discounts on games that are on sale, but this doesn’t even make up for Steam sales savings.
PC vs Console Gaming: Exclusive Games
We aren’t going to pick a winner in this category. In terms of pure numbers, PC offers the most and has the advantage of not being as harshly segregated by generation. PS4 comes in second, with Switch in third, and Xbox One in fourth (note: you can play a lot of Xbox “exclusives” on PC, like Forza and Gears of War).
In terms of numbers.
What really matters is what games you like. Want to play Halo 5? Need an Xbox for that. Mario Odyssey? Switch. Spider-Man? PS4.
You get the idea. There is no objective measure of game quality. For a lot of people trying to determine,”Should I get a console or PC?”, it will, somewhat reasonably come down to this. If exclusives are the deciding factor for you, you need to determine which games you want to play the most and what platform they’re on.
(The author’s personal pick for exclusive games would be the Nintendo Switch, if you’re curious.)
PC vs Console: VR Gaming
VR gaming is the newest trend on the market. And both console and PC have their own fronts in this market, sorta. Amongst consoles, only PS4 actually offers a VR headset– PS VR– while PC has several possible headsets you can use, although the HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift are the most popular and most strongly supported.
Technologically speaking, the PS VR is inferior to the PC offerings, both because of its outdated tracking technology and the PS4 itself just being less powerful. Moreover, there are fewer games for PS VR making it less appealing as a product overall.
However, PS VR is also significantly cheaper. It is recommended that you use a more powerful PC for VR (it’d be nice to have a stronger PS4 for VR too, but the PS4 Pro is as strong as it gets) and this will set you back by a decent chunk of change. Moreover, the PS VR can retail under $200 while the Vive is about $500 and the Rift is sitting at $350. Although, peripherals, like controllers, will probably cause you to spend nearly an extra $100 on any that you choose.
None of these are future proof though. PS VR the least of which since Sony will likely want to push the tech further with its next console.
At the end of the day, it’s best to try one out at a store (Best Buy, GameStop, etc). You might save on the PS VR, but its lower quality might be the difference between needing to keep a garbage can handy and having a revolutionary gaming experience.
PC vs Console Gaming: Upgradability
You probably see where this is going, but we’re going to do it anyway.
Upgrading Drives
PCs and consoles (sans the Switch), can upgrade their internal hard drives. As of the most recent console generation, they can also use external hard drives. (Sans the Switch, again.)
However, consoles have a limitation here, at least in terms of internal storage: they can only take 2.5-inch drives. Not only are these usually more expensive for the same amount of storage, they’re also slower (in the case of 2.5 HDDs) or vastly more expensive per-gig (in the case of 2.5 SSDs).
In terms of upgrading your drives, PC has much more options for internal storage. In terms of everything else…
Upgrading Everything Else
Yeah. PC wins on this front, hands down. Aside from storage, you can’t upgrade anything inside your console, much less open it up without voiding your warranty. You can repair and upgrade and change your PC all you like– you can even build one from scratch if you want!
PC vs Console Gaming: Backwards Compatibility
Let’s say you want to play older games on your modern system. Who offers the best backwards compatibility?
PC Backwards Compatibility
PC is pretty great on this front. Thanks to built-in compatibility modes, user-made fixes and outlets like GOG (which make broken old games work on modern systems), your PC library spans back farther back than the existence of Nintendo consoles. With the addition of emulation and the right hardware, you can emulate just about any old console as well, up until the PS3/Xbox 360… for now.
Nintendo Backwards Compatibility
Here’s something sad: Nintendo used to do awesome in this category.
With the Wii’s Virtual Console and the Wii U/3DS Virtual Consoles building on top of that, Nintendo had all of its greatest games playable on their modern systems.
Unfortunately, the Nintendo Switch offers no backward compatibility to speak of… except for emulated NES games. They score a hard last in this category as of 2019.
Click here to see a list of NES games available on Nintendo Switch online.
Check out our best Wii to HDMI converters here
PlayStation Backwards Compatibility
Similar to Nintendo, PlayStation used to do pretty well in this category. The launch PS3 could play PS2 and PS1 games, but later models of the PS3 removed PS2 compatibility to cut down on prices.
The PS4 has no direct backwards compatibility to speak of, only PS Now, a subscription service that offers access to streaming PS3 titles. PS2 games can also be purchased from the PS Store and emulated, but as of now, there are only very few PS1 titles with the same treatment.
Click here to see a list of PS Now games.
Xbox Backwards Compatibility
Xbox is doing the best of the consoles here.
While limited, Xbox One does offer backward compatibility with a large number of original Xbox and Xbox 360 games. Some of these games even have enhanced resolution and performance on the Xbox One X!
Click here to see the full list of compatible Xbox/360 games.
PC vs Console Gaming: Warranty and Repairs
Life happens, and when it happens it can often result in a damaged or lost gaming setup. What recourse do you have for this?
PC Warranty and Repairs
With PC, you can open up and upgrade your system without voiding your warranty. You or independent shops also have full license to replace or upgrade any component inside your system, so long as it’s compatible. Even if an individual component can’t be repaired, that component usually can be replaced without voiding warranty.
Speaking of warranty, warranties are pretty strong on the PC platform. If you built your own PC, each of your individual parts have their own warranties and return policies, usually covering you for anywhere from 2-3 years. With prebuilt gaming PCs, this span of time is usually lowered to 1-2 years.
Console Warranty and Repairs
All three mainstream consoles offer a 1 year warranty.
Repairs are… fuzzier. You’re definitely allowed to upgrade your internal drives (at least on PS4 and Xbox One– on Switch, you’re limited to an SD card), and until recently all console manufacturers restricted you from making your own repairs. After a notice from the FTC, Sony and Nintendo now allow third-party repairs, but Microsoft will still void your warranty unless they’re the ones responsible.
We think it’s fair to say that PC wins here, especially self-built PCs.
PC vs Console Gaming: Control Methods
What can you use to play your games? How many options do you have?
Console Control Methods
Console control methods are limited to the current-generation controllers for those consoles and, occasionally, fleeting mouse and keyboard support. There are a few exceptions to the current-generation rule– for instance, the GameCube controller will soon be usable on the Nintendo Switch– but these are few and far between.
PC Control Methods
All of the above, plus the past generation controllers, and honestly just… just about anything you can think of. People on PC have figured out how to beat Dark Souls with an Xbox 360 Rock Band Guitar for god’s sake.
PC vs Console Gaming: Accessibility
Now, let’s talk accessibility. We’re going to tackle accessibility on two fronts here: software and hardware.
Console Accessibility
Software-wise, console has a definite advantage in accessibility. You don’t need to worry about driver installs or game patching or anything like that– you plug, you play, you occasionally have to download updates. There is almost nothing between you and the game, from a software perspective, when you’re playing on console.
Hardware-wise is a different story. Most console games don’t offer the ability to rebind in-game controls (you can remap OS-wide controls in PS4 and Xbox One accessibility settings, but there is no way to apply these per-game), and neither Nintendo or Sony offer adaptive controllers for disabled gamers. Xbox does, though, with the Xbox Adaptive Controller… which can also be used on PC!
PC Accessibility
Software-wise… PC loses, hard. Even in the best case scenarios, you’re still going to eventually need to tweak and fix something. That’s the price of PC’s variety and freedom: a lot of extra tweaking.
Hardware-wise, PC wins. In addition to the Xbox Adaptive Controller, almost every PC game out there offers control rebindings, and you can really play with… well, just about anything.
PC vs Console Gaming: Final Verdict
Let’s wrap this up.
Pricing
- Winner: Used PC Hardware
- Runner-Up: Used Consoles
Exclusive Games
- Winner: N/A (personal taste)
VR Gaming
- Winner: PC (power), PSVR (price)
Upgradability
- Winner: PC
- Runner-Up: PlayStation and Xbox Tie
Backwards Compatibility
- Winner: PC
- Runner-Up: Xbox
Warranty and Repairs
- Winner: PC
- Runner-Up: Nintendo and Sony
Control Methods
- Winner: PC
- Runner-Up: Nintendo
Accessibility
- Winner: PC (hardware), consoles (software)
- Runner-Up: Xbox (hardware), PC (software)
Conclusion
Why PC is Better Than Console
Perhaps unsurprisingly, PC won most categories… but that doesn’t mean PC is the only option and that you’re objectively wrong if you don’t choose it.
In particular, PC wins on value. While you can get into either scene for a comparable price, the PC will likely stay viable just as long, if not longer. And you won’t pay to play online, and you won’t pay full price for most of your games, and you’ll have mods– mods!
Oh, and PCs can be used for more than just gaming.
Why Console is Better Than PC
Much like PC, console has great games. While there are a ton of great, exclusive games on PC, there are more AAA exclusives on console.
Let’s say you love Nintendo games, and want to play the newest ones at home or on the go. A PC can’t do that, but a Nintendo Switch can. Let’s say you want to play God of War, or Spider-Man. Only PS4 can do that. Halo? Only Xbox One can do that.
If you just want a Halo machine, then why would you want even care about PC gaming?
Consoles also have a larger install base, meaning if you want to play Call of Duty with your friends, you’re going to need the platform (likely console) they’re playing on.
Moreover, consoles are just more convenient. There is no good way to quantify this, but humans are just lazy. And when you return home after a long day at work, consoles are just easier.
Ultimately, though, what matters most is what gaming experiences you value.
Speaking as a gamer– and not the author– I prefer the PC. All my favorite games are old games that I can emulate and breathe new life into on my system, and I find that PC provides by far the best experience with current-gen multiplatform games. I’m also planning to get a Switch very soon– who said I (or anyone else) had to stick to just one platform?
Comment below and let us know: what do you play on? If you’re trying to find something to buy, did this article help you?
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7 factors for evaluating what is best for gaming
To get the most out of your PC game, you need to decide whether to use a PC or a console. How will immersion in this fascinating world be brighter, more impressive, more convenient? Each of the options has advantages, so it is worth weighing the arguments, evaluating the functionality, taking into account your own preferences and tastes.
Console features: pros, cons
The advantages and disadvantages of using consoles in comparison with gaming PCs are now heatedly debated. But even ardent supporters of computers cannot refute the fact that when using a set-top box, there will be no need for additional costs for its equipment. For example, in the next 5 years, a new video card will not be required, which, when working on a PC, will use up its resource in 2 years. In addition, there are a number of other important advantages:
- Console fans comment on the affordable price compared to PC. Especially considering the constant rise in prices for video cards;
- Optimization. Games for consoles are already optimized and you don’t have to think whether the hardware will pull this or that game;
- Exclusive.
Many of the gaming masterpieces are not released for the computer. When choosing which is better console or PC, this is important to consider;
Interested to know: «How to choose a gaming computer?» nine0003
The disadvantages of consoles are as follows:
- Switching to console games after PC is quite difficult because of the control features: the force of habit will not allow you to quickly «change» from the keyboard to the joystick.
- Functionality: the console will not be able to mount a video, process a photo or make up a website. The console is a device exclusively for gaming.
PC features: pros, cons
On a number of parameters, computers will never give way to gaming consoles in terms of functionality, ease of use, innovation, flexibility in control, bundling with the possibility of improving performance parameters and support for old games. nine0003
Advantages of computers:
- When choosing between a computer or a console, for many, the most important advantage of the first option is the ability to increase productivity.
- The convenience and functionality of the device. If, for example, you need to type text on a console or PC, then the choice is already obvious. The same situation with surfing the Internet.
- Possibility of remote access to the game. On the console, this functionality is available only with the help of a special adapter. nine0012
See also: «How to choose a next generation game console?»
PC Disadvantages:
- Overall dimensions (it will not be easy to take a computer with you, unlike a console).
- Complex assembly.
So what to buy: console or PC
To decide which is better: a game console or a computer, you should focus on personal preferences, desires and tastes. For some, games are an opportunity to have a good time and get away from work, for some it is a real passion. Consoles are ideal for gamers who have an LCD TV that supports HD and above. Popular now becomes 4K or Ultra HD resolution, which supports PS4 Pro. Gaming gadgets are transportable, have a large supply of graphics power, and allow multiple users to use them at once. nine0003
And if, when choosing between a console or a computer, the preference is versatility, multifunctionality, the ability to run even old, but still popular games today (like Heroes 2), a PC will do. In addition, PC gamers note the high quality of the picture, the absence of a limit of 30 frames per second; among consoles, only top versions like PS4 PRO or XBOX One X support such parameters. Also, if strategies are preferred, then the console is definitely not suitable. nine0003
Interested: HyperX Pulsefire FPS Gaming Mouse — Ready-Aim-Fire
To make it easier for you to choose between PC and console, below is a table that summarizes the main selection criteria.
It is worth choosing based on your own tastes and preferences. Some do not like to use a large number of gadgets and prefer to invest in a powerful gaming computer, others are attracted by the exclusive games and ease of use of consoles. Everything is individual, so you can decide only based on practice. nine0003
Experiences from switching from PC to Playstation — Games on DTF
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Foreword
To begin with, my acquaintance with the console world began relatively recently, with the purchase of a used Playstation 4 Pro in December 2020, for quite adequate money (about 19 thousand). Against the background of the madness with outbids and the price list for a new generation of consoles, the last revision firmware in perfect condition and with an almost unused gamepad looked like a good offer. Before that, I played on a PC, and even then not very actively — study / work made their own adjustments and there was not much time left for toys. Now everything has calmed down a bit and it has become possible to pay a little more attention to games. The idea to continue to play on the computer, squirming at the table, somehow did not particularly inspire. As a result, after some deliberation, it was decided to take the PS4 Pro in pair with a 4K TV set. Also, the presence of a large number of multi-genre exclusives, which simply did not exist on the PC, spoke for the purchase of a curling iron. Actually, about acquaintance with these games, I would like to talk in more detail, since I set myself the task of getting acquainted, if not with all, then at least with the majority of Sony copies. nine0003
As for the gaming experience, I consider myself a fan of single-player games with a well-developed world and plot (well, preferably), online hacks are a thing of the school past. I am not a hardcore player; typical sofa casual. I have not yet got involved in souls-like and others like them, but everything is ahead.
Start of the journey
After buying the console, I immediately purchased a PS + subscription, and in addition to it, kind people helped with the activation of the PS + Collection, which gave me access to 20 games, half of which are coveted copies, and all this «without registration and SMS». About them a little later. nine0003
Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection
The collection is not from the PS + collection, I got it a long time ago on some distribution, even when I did not have a prefix. I really liked all three parts, but especially the second one. A sea of driving action and beautiful staged moments. Against the backdrop of a dull last stall with bare-assed natives, these games seemed very exciting, as if they were in a movie about a young Indiana Jones.
Total — 8 treasures not found out of 10.
The Order: 1886
The first game purchased at a discount. Adventure just for a couple of evenings. In general, I liked the setting, combat (especially the feeling of shooting), lore and visual component. Victorian London with werewolves looks gloomy and chthonic. Pushed away except that levels with forced stealth and black stripes «like in the movies.» It is a pity that the game is short, and is unlikely to receive a sequel.
Total — 6.5 Tesla coils out of 10.
Killzone: Shadow Fall
Second game bought on sale. I haven’t seen such a disgusting shooter in a long time. With all my love for science fiction, I was able to master the game in a month or two with rare sessions, that’s how it didn’t work for me. Perhaps for its time (2014) it was the norm, but in today’s realities it looks and plays very clumsily. The story is dull and secondary, the characters are not memorable. Gameplay — the simplest mechanics and the monotonous shooting of waves of bobbleheads, even the barrels look/sound and feel the same for the most part. nine0003
Total — 3 dead helghasts out of 10.
inFamous: Second Son
I liked the continuation of the famous inFamous series, although I was not familiar with the previous parts. The plot is not tense or drawn out. The game itself throws up new abilities / locations at the right time and you just don’t have time to get bored. Secondary missions are monotonous, but there are not too many of them. The picture in the game is nice, Seattle in the rays of sunset looks especially good.
Total — 7 street graffiti out of 10.
Entering the taste
After playing the above games, I realized that there is definitely no desire to return to the game on the PC. It’s time to take on something more solid and complex.
Death Stranding
To say that this work of Kojima amazed me is to say nothing. I didn’t think that after completing The Witcher, something could drag me out for so long. I will not sing odes to DS, everything has been said and written for a long time, this game either really likes it or does not go at all, but certainly no one will remain indifferent. Let me just say that it is ideal to play DS on the console. I am sincerely glad that I did not play it on PC, because. admiring fantastic landscapes during long hikes is much more comfortable with a gamepad in your hands while lying on the couch. And in general, this is not even a game, but a kind of meditation. nine0003
Total — 9.5 damaged containers out of 10.
Marvel’s Spider-Man
Superheroes in general and Marvel in particular are a bit out of my genre, but nevertheless I couldn’t miss this game. By the way, a GOTY edition disc with DLC was purchased *spoiler — they never got around to it*. At first, the game impressed with a juicy picture, a fairly detailed city, GG animations and flights on the web, but very quickly all this splendor was shattered into a ton of the same type and annoying side tasks that must be completed to open new costumes and upgrade skills. After the systematic cleansing of the city, when the game map in the 3rd act was again abundantly flavored with already boring activities, I almost threw a gamepad at the TV. The plot is for the most part interesting, but for me the story seemed a bit long (in comparison with the same inFamous) and very naive. As for me, the desire to catch up on drama was clearly superfluous. nine0003
Total — 6 lost backpacks out of 10.
Days Gone
Despite the complaints about the same type of tasks in Spiderman, for some reason I played Days Gone with great pleasure. I can compare the adventures of bikers-collective farmers in the American backwoods with watching some average Netflix series — not stressful, moderately interesting, not much time to get bored. The plot, game mechanics, locations, etc. — everything is done at a decent level, not a masterpiece, of course, but it worked for me. For some reason, the characters in the game want to believe and it is interesting to observe their relationship. nine0003
Total — 8.5 cans of gasoline out of 10.
God of War
Another gem among Sony exclusives. An epic story about the adventures of the stern uncle Kratos and his whimsical son Atreus. The story of growing up, becoming and overcoming difficulties on a difficult path. A must for anyone who likes story games. A separate like for black humor and gnomes. Now I understand those who bought the console for this particular game.
Total — 9 killed gods out of 10.
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
After the trilogy, the game seemed secondary and not very interesting. Apart from the beautiful picture, nothing really caught on. Passed with difficulty, especially the second half of the game, where the action took place on a pirate island. It seems that everything is with her: the plot, a juicy picture, spectacular shooting, trips in a jeep, staged moments are also in abundance, but something is missing. Perhaps this is due to the fact that the story has become more intimate and personal for the protagonist. The game caused mixed feelings, and I never understood why I liked the fourth anch less than the previous parts. nine0003
Total — 6 exploding mummies out of 10.
Still in progress
This completes the list of completed titles. I am currently going through several toys, which I will not evaluate yet, but I would like to share my first impressions.
The Last of Us Remastered
I installed it right after I bought the console, but I still haven’t mastered it: it’s been about halfway through. I don’t understand the hype and shrieks of «SHEDEVR» around this series of games. Maybe I just got fed up with the zombie theme in other games/movies/series/books etc. Perhaps at the time of its appearance, it was some kind of revelation, but today the game does not cause any special emotions. Subjectively, the relationship of the same Kratos and Atreus is more interesting to watch than the relationship between Joel and Ellie: smearing snot all over the screen and forcing drama causes only rejection. You have to force yourself to finish it, then, perhaps, towards the end, the swallow will sparkle with new colors. nine0003
Ghost of Tsushima
An absolute thrill and visual delight. For me, this game is on par with Death Stranding and God of War . The style of medieval Japan and the chic visuals will take your breath away from the first minutes. I’m totally in love with the gameplay. I can watch forever as Jin brushes the blood off his katana. I hope this enthusiastic feeling will not leave me during the passage.
Red Dead Redemption II
After passing Tsushima, I will continue to slowly pick up RDR. Rockstars do top things, they have no equal in terms of the level of development of the game world. The game sometimes frightens with its vastness and attention to detail.
Plans for the future
There are not so many significant (at least for me) failed exams. I decided for myself that in the future I will definitely purchase God of War III Remastered , and also try Gran Turismo Sport and Drive Club , although I’m not a big fan of racing. Waiting in the wings and Horizon Zero Dawn , which I started playing on PC, but didn’t progress beyond the first third of the game (that’s how I spoiled my impressions and now I can’t bring myself to return to this game). Bloodborne is too hardcore, Ratchet & Clank is too cartoony, but one day I will take them on (but this is not certain). If I master the first part, then I will pass TLOU2 , an ordinary game would definitely not make so much noise. There’s still Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales , which I don’t think I’ll like, but might be worth giving it a try.
Igromovie such as Detroit: Become Human, Heavy Rain & Beyond: Two Souls Collection, Until Dawn passed my girlfriend, and willy nilly I watched what was happening on the screen, so for now I will definitely not take on their passage.
I left out the new items that were released only for PS5, because. without a new console, there’s nothing to talk about. nine0003
Impressions of the
console
There is nothing special to say here, it works, sometimes it makes noise, but not much. I prefer to play in a mode with an increased frame rate (if there is one in games), the picture on a 4K TV is excellent, I did not notice an abundance of soap or terrible graphics.
