Best games consoles
On the hunt for a new gaming machine? Whether you're hankering after a retro experience, lusting after the latest handheld device or got your sights set on the most feature-packed console money can buy, we've got you covered.
From the best budget buy to the ultimate premium models, here's the lowdown on the best consoles out right now.
Sega Mega Drive
Feeling nostalgic? Relive your 90s youth and get your Sonic the Hedgehog fix with the retro Sega Mega Drive console. This throwback device comes with an impressive 80 built-in games including Sonic the Hedgehog I and II, Golden Axe and The Tide of Time, as well as two wireless controllers. The console will even play your ancient Sega Mega Drive cartridge games once you've blown the dust and cobwebs away. Hours of fun guaranteed!
Get the Sega Mega Drive now for £49.99
Mad Catz Mojo Micro
If money's tight, consider spending your hard-earned on this budget multimedia Android console. The Mad Catz MOJO Micro allows you to play the latest Android games on your HD or 4K TV, and turns your device into a multimedia hub – you can surf the net, access social media, watch a TV show or movie and listen to your favourite tracks via your telly with this nifty little gizmo.
Get the Mad Catz MOJO Micro 16GB now for £90
PlayStation 3 Super Slim
Opting for a less up to date console is another savvy way to get your hands on an affordable gaming device. The PlayStation 3 Super Slim has been around for a while but it's still one of the best consoles ever produced in terms of hardware. There's a huge selection of games to whet your appetite and you can also access Sony's free online service, PlayStation Network, and stream games, as well as download apps.
Get the PlayStation 3 Super Slim 12GB now for £159.35
Nintendo New 3DS XL
If you're on a mission to find the best handheld console for gaming on the go that will beat any smartphone out now, call off the search and splash your cash on the new Nintendo 3DS XL. The latest device impresses with souped-up processing power, sharper graphics and improved 3D. And with a massive library of titles to choose from, you really can't go wrong with this extra-portable console.
Get the Nintendo 3DS XL now for £169.99
Nvidia Shield Pro
The ultimate Android streaming console, the Nvidia Shield Pro packs 4K Ultra HD video streaming and 7.1 Dolby Surround Sound for an awesome gaming experience on your TV. The device will also stream games from your PC and via the new GeForce NOW service. And if that's not enough to get you tempted, the Nvidia Shield Pro wows with some seriously cool multimedia functions, too.
Get the Nvidia Shield Pro 500GB now for £219.99
Nintendo Wii U
Looking for a console for the whole family? The Wii U is calling you name. The updated console rocks breathtaking HD graphics and powerful hardware – though not as high spec as the Xbox One or PS4 – as well as a nifty control pad, complete with a handy 6.2-inch screen. Titles tend to be family-orientated and on the limited side compared with other eighth gen consoles, but the Wii U offers the best motion-sensing gaming experience, hands-down.
Get the Nintendo Wii U 8GB now for £194.99
Microsoft Xbox One
The console of the future and now more affordable than ever, the Xbox One is a versatile multimedia dream. You can move effortlessly between gaming and your fave TV shows or movies, play your old Xbox 360 games – the console now boasts backward capability – and stream games via Microsoft's peerless online service. The premium console to snap up if you're after an outstanding multimedia device.
Get the Microsoft Xbox One 500GB now for £270.99
Sony PlayStation 4
When it comes to top-end specs and graphics hardware, Sony's flagship console has the edge on the Xbox One. With a more efficient memory system and increased GPU compute units, the PS4 is most definitely a cut above. Games-wise, while the online Xbox Live service is unparalleled, multi-platform third party titles are sharper on the PS4 and the console offers better exclusives. If you've got your heart set on the ultimate pure gaming console, look no further.
Get the Sony PlayStation 4 500GB now for £279
