For a gaming console to buy in 2025, the top recommendations depend on your preferences:

• If you want a flexible, family-friendly, and portable option, the Nintendo Switch 2 is highly recommended. It offers 4K hybrid abilities, backward compatibility, and a vast library of Nintendo exclusives. It is great for casual and family gaming with the ability to connect to a TV.

• For powerful home consoles with realistic graphics and sophisticated multiplayer, both the Sony PlayStation 5 Slim and Microsoft Xbox Series X are excellent choices. The PlayStation 5 Slim is good for those interested in Sony exclusive games and Blu-ray discs, while the Xbox Series X offers the best graphics and supports Dolby Vision video, great for home theater setups.

• If you want a handheld PC gaming experience, the Steam Deck OLED is the best overall, offering almost console-level performance and access to a vast PC game library on the go. The MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Asus ROG Ally X are also strong contenders in the handheld gaming PC category with high specs, especially for PC game enthusiasts.

In summary:

• For beginners and casual gamers who want versatility, portability, and family-friendly games: Nintendo Switch 2.
• For high-end home console gaming with top graphics and exclusive titles: PlayStation 5 Slim or Xbox Series X.
• For portable PC gaming with access to Steam and other PC platforms: Steam Deck OLED or MSI Claw 8 AI+.

Choose based on what kind of gaming experience and game library matters most to you.