Video Games are the fastest-growing forms of entertainment in the media industry, coming in at $30.4 billion. In the video game market, there lays a divide between competitors in the form of video game consoles and personal computers (PCs). This divide spurs on developments and the ever-growing market for bigger and more powerful devices to run our favorite games. To the unwary consumer, however, these divides and plethora of products can confuse their wallets and their brains. This guide will try to help give your wallet and your brain a little more ease the next time you’re doing some shopping.

Consoles versus Personal Computers: What’s The Big Deal?

When it comes to the debate over a video game consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One against a personal computer, the debates usually reside over preference. Console gamers will argue ease of access and console-exclusive games, while PC gamers will argue about the stability of the platform and the customization of preference. This section will explore what is right for you in this current console and PC generation.

Consoles

Pros

+ Both the Xbox One and PS4 lines of consoles come in at a reasonably-priced range from around $200 for the base models to $400 for the more powerful PS4 and Xbox One X with built-in 4K resolution.

+ The PS4 is lining up with a ton of new exclusive titles that are being labeled as must-buys by both gamers and critics alike. Titles like “Monster Hunter: World” and “God of War” are shaping up to be some of the biggest games of this year and only on the PS4.

+ The “ease of access” consoles provide to their audience includes a host of tailor-made features and community hubs that are both easy to access and browse. Consoles provide a quick and enjoyable video game and social experience.

– Playing multiplayer on consoles and accessing other features such as Netflix and YouTube will either require a monthly subscription or a yearly payment, setting you back around $60.– Consoles do not have a large backlog of games that are backwards compatible with current generation consoles. While companies are releasing more and more in their special services dedicated to backwards compatibility, you’re going to have to rely on $60 releases for fresh new content. The option for indie games also arises, but as trends have shown, PC still holds a greater platform for indie or small developer titles.

Neutral

+- Many consoles lack cooperative couch play options, regulating them to online-only experiences. PC also has options for cooperative couch multiplayer, but its widespread use has not garnered much acclaim either. Only the Nintendo Wii U has cooperative party games, and with the Switch taking its place, no new party games will be coming out for awhile.

Cons

– Consoles are also split between competitors that have different exclusives, while the only thing stopping a PC player is the hardware being run on said computer.

PC

Pros

+ PC players have a large range of customization options and the ability to build the perfect setup according to their economic situations.

+ PC players don’t have to pay extra for online services, only your internet bill will do.

+ Digital provider services like Steam and Origin provide a massive backlog of games from all sorts of titles and genres. No need for backward compatibility; if you can run it you can play it

+ Depending on how powerful your PC, higher-end models — whether pre-built or custom-made — easily outclass any console in both functionality and performance.

+- The mouse and keyboard are universally the best way to play competitive first-person shooters, strategy games (actually, the only way) and third-person shooters. Fighting games will usually need a fightstick to be played to their full potential. As well with flight simulators on PC, you’re going to need buy extra accessories.

Neutral

+- The same digital providers — mostly Steam — have a problem with “Early Access” titles, and the many scams that have taken place can lead new consumers on for a head-spin.

Cons

–  “Pre-built” models are still extremely pricy only because of brand name companies such as Alienware. Always look for the best deals; not every PC needs a liquid cooling system.

– Though sites have sprung up to help consumers choose the right parts for their builds, going in dry will have the average consumer having trouble picking up parts from the plethora of options available from the start. Make sure to do your research!

Conclusion

The conversation between console and PC has been raging on for millennia. However, it all depends on the preferences of the consumer. If you’re looking for a more casual experience, consoles are the way to go, while people looking to get into the nitty gritty competitive scene or just enjoy a more powerful technical experience tend to favor PC. Hopefully, this guide provided some general viewpoints to get you started on either your move or your recommendation to a friend or parent in need.