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The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X headline the ninth generation of video game consoles.
Both have a lot to offer, but which is right for you?
Let’s compare the PS5 and Xbox Series X in several key areas to help you decide.
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Now,the PS5 Slim is the current offering.
If you want an Xbox but can’t pay upfront, Microsoft offers theXbox All Access program.
Since that system is in a different class, we won’t consider it here.
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See ourcomparison of the Xbox Series X and Series Sif you’d like more info on it.
The core price is the same and both offer an alternative option.
System Specs
The PS5 and Xbox Series X are both powerful machines.
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They support 4K gaming and can run games at 60FPS, with some running at 120FPS.
Meanwhile, the Series X has a 1TB SSD (802GB usable).
On paper, the Xbox Series X is slightly more powerful.
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However, in practice, both systems are about equal in performance.
Winner:Tie, as there’s not enough real-world difference to make a call.
It features a curved design, which might make it difficult to fit into your entertainment center.
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Winner:Xbox Series X, due to its more compact sizethough the PS5 has a more interesting design.
The Xbox Series X controller is nearly identical to the Xbox One’s controller.
The only differences are a reshaped D-pad, a dedicated Share button, and additional texture for grip.
As a perk, allXbox One controllers are fully compatible with Xbox Series X(and vice-versa).
The DualSense also includes a mic in the controller, allowing you to communicate without a headset.
Like that controller, the DualSense is rechargeable (this time with a USB-C port).
Worrying about AA batteries is a pain, and the DualSense has a few new exciting features.
The Xbox controller is still rock-solid, though.
Some games are available on both PS4 and PS5, but not other consoles.
At the time of writing, the Xbox Series X has few exclusive games.
Starfield is one of the biggest, though it’s also on PC.
Redfall is another title that’s also on PC but not PS5, though it received poor reviews.
Almost all of Microsoft’s big games are released on both Series X and PC.
Meanwhile, the company announced in mid-2023 that Xbox One game development has ceased.
Backward Compatibility
The PS5 is backward-compatiblewith nearly all PS4 titles.
However, theXbox Series X’s ability to play older gamesgoes much further.
On both systems, older games will run better thanks to the more powerful hardware.
It’s available on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, as well as a separate plan for PC.
On the PlayStation 5 side, Sony updated its PlayStation Plus service in mid-2022 to offer a similar setup.
The higher tiers (Extra and Premium) replace the old PlayStation Now streaming plan.
Check ourcomparison of Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plusfor a full breakdown.
Winner:Xbox Series X.
Game Pass is hard to beat.
Virtual Reality
If you’re into virtual reality, the PlayStation 5 is the console for you.
Backward compatibility is a lot more appealing when you already have a library of games built up.
Winner:Tie, as this depends on your situation.
Should You Buy the PS5 or Xbox Series X?
There’s no clear answer on whether the PS5 or Xbox Series X is the better console.
