10 Best Game Consoles 2026 in the United States

The Nintendo Switch 2 builds on the original's versatility with three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld, making it a great option for gamers who value portability along with home use. Its 7.9” vivid LCD touch screen supports HDR and can run games at up to 120 frames per second, which means smoother visuals, especially for fast-paced games. When docked to a compatible 4K TV, it enhances the experience with higher resolution, a notable upgrade for sharper graphics.

The console comes with 256GB of internal storage, which is generous for downloadable games, and it can be expanded via microSD cards to hold even more content. Nintendo’s extensive game library remains a strong point, and the Switch 2 supports physical and digital versions of previous Nintendo Switch games, ensuring backward compatibility. Multiplayer options are robust, including local wireless play, same-system multiplayer, and online capabilities with a new GameChat feature for voice and video communication during gaming sessions.

The system does not mention dedicated VR support, which may be a downside if you are interested in virtual reality gaming. Media capabilities are basic, focusing mostly on gaming rather than streaming apps or multimedia functions. This makes the Nintendo Switch 2 well-suited for gamers looking for a flexible and portable console with solid performance, a vast game library, and enhanced visuals, while it might not meet the needs of those seeking VR or advanced media features.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is a versatile game console that builds on the success of its predecessor with three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld. It features a larger 7.9-inch LCD touchscreen with HDR support and up to 120 frames per second, offering smooth and vibrant visuals that are great for gaming. The included dock supports 4K output when connected to a compatible TV, enhancing the viewing experience for those with capable screens.

Storage is a strong point with 256GB built-in and the option to expand via microSD cards, which helps if you download many games or apps. Nintendo Switch 2 supports both physical and digital games from the Nintendo Switch library, ensuring a wide game selection and backward compatibility. Multiplayer options include same-system multiplayer, local wireless play, and online features, plus a new GameChat function for voice and video chatting during games, adding a social touch.

The Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically and now include mouse controls, offering potentially more precise input for some games. Portability remains a highlight with its handheld mode and light weight. Nintendo Switch 2 is ideal for players seeking a flexible, family-friendly console with a rich game library and improved visuals, though it does not include virtual reality features.

The Nex Playground is a unique game console designed mainly for kids and families who want to combine physical activity with interactive gaming. Unlike typical consoles that focus on graphics and processing power, this device uses a built-in camera and AI to track your body movements, allowing you to play without any controllers. This makes it great for active gaming sessions at home, parties, or playdates. It comes with 5 built-in games and offers access to a larger game library through a subscription called Play Pass, which includes popular children’s franchises.

Storage capacity is 64GB, enough for its intended use, but it’s not made for high-performance gaming or complex graphics. Since it connects via HDMI to a TV or projector and is lightweight and compact, it’s easy to set up and portable. The console supports up to 4 players simultaneously, encouraging group play and physical engagement, but it does not support traditional online multiplayer, VR, or backward compatibility with other consoles’ games. It focuses on safe, kid-friendly content with no ads or in-app purchases, making it suitable for families concerned about digital safety.

While it won’t replace a gaming console aimed at teens or adults seeking high-end games, the Nex Playground fills a niche for active, family-oriented gaming that blends movement with fun. Its strengths lie in promoting exercise and social play in a simple, accessible way; however, if you want advanced game performance, a wider offline game variety, or extensive online features, this might feel limited.