Gamers across the world clamor for the next generation of their favorite systems, and it’s easy to see why. Each version launched brings better graphics, higher quality sound and more gaming options for the entire family.
The end of 2013 was a big year for gaming systems with the release of the Sony PlayStation 4 and Microsoft’s Xbox One gaming consoles. Combined, the two systems sold more than 6 million units in the last few weeks of 2013, spurred by the holiday season. The two systems are similar in the sense that they both offer a variety of games and state-of-the-art graphics; some would say it’s a matter of brand preference as to which game console is worth the investment.
Here are a few details about the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 to help you decide which game system is right for you.
Look and Specs
Electronics, especially those that will be sitting on your entertainment console for years, have become as much about form as function, and Xbox One and PS4 are no different. The Xbox One is 13.5×10.4 inches, compared to the 10.8×12 inch PS4. The PS4 is 2.75 kg, while the Xbox One runs 3.56 kg. Overall, the PS4 has a sleeker and lighter design, which can be great if you’re planning to move your gaming system or stack it on your console shelves.
Graphics and Processing
Both the Xbox One and the PS4 have vastly improved the speed and quality from previous generations of their individual consoles. The Xbox One includes a custom 1.75GHz 8-core CPU – a 10% increase in processing power from the Xbox 360. Both machines have 8GB of Ram, which is somewhat taken up by the operating system. Users will eventually be able to add external storage to the Xbox One, which could be a slight benefit for some potential buyers.
Gaming and Apps
Ultimately, if you’re buying one of these two game systems for gaming purposes, you should buy the one that has the most available games you want to play. Xbox has already launched games such as Dead Rising 3 and Forza Motorsport 5, and will be releasing Halo 5, the game that made Xbox a hit among the gaming crowd, sometime this year. PS4 has fewer games available at launch, including Killzone: Shadowfall, but more on the horizon. There are also a handful of games available on both platforms, including Call of Duty: Ghosts and Need for Speed: Rivals.
Another consideration in the console wars is the availability of other apps that can let you turn your new gaming system into an entertainment system. Xbox One offers Amazon Instant Video, CW TV, ESPN, Fox, Netflix and Skype, to name just a few. PS4 offers many of the same apps, and includes VUDU, VidZone, NHL GameCenter Live and Redbox Instant. Another exclusive to the PS4 is BBC iPlayer, an internet television and radio service available only on the PS4 at this time (it will be available on the Xbox one, but not until late fall).
Price and Availability
For budget-conscious consumers, price may be the biggest deciding factor between the PS4 and Xbox One. The PS4 offers a bundle deal with the console, DualShock 4 controller for $399. The Xbox One offers their console, Xbox One controller and Kinect camera for $499. During the holiday season, Xbox was readily available and on shelves, which might have tempted buyers who were ready to upgrade at that moment.
Which is the best fit for you?