Xbox or PlayStation?

Thinking about upgrading your gaming console or buying a new one?  Regardless of whether you’re a Microsoft Xbox or Sony PlayStation convert, there are a few things you should think about before you head out and grab yourself a new one. 

Price 

The base Xbox One model comes in at around $320 and the PS4 will set you back closer to $400 but prices vary from different retailers so make sure you shop around. At these prices, both models feature 500GB of storage and a wireless controller.  

If your budget can stand it, there are options for larger storage (1TB Xbox One for around $370, or $470 for the PS4 model). Both feature limited additional options if you’re looking for something a little different and have plenty of cash to splash around. 

Size 

The PS4 is a much sleeker, lightweight unit compared to the Xbox One. It’s slim and just looks more modern with a sloping back and front, and attractive light bar on the side. An added benefit is that it weighs almost a kilogram less than the Xbox One. Not that the Xbox One is big and ugly – it’s just not as easy on the eye as the PS4. 

Performance 

While both systems have hundreds of games available, performance does vary. The PS4 is a slightly more powerful machine and can display games in a resolution of 1080 – better than the Xbox One’s 920. The difference isn’t huge but the PS4 graphics will look a little better (although both will generally look great). 

Games 

While many developers bring out new games for both systems, both Sony and Microsoft have long lists of exclusives, including Bloodborne, Horizon and Uncharted on the PS4 and Halo, Gears of War and Forza on the Xbox One. Unless you’re a die-hard fan of a particular game franchise though, you can play most of the biggest games on either console. 

Compatibility with existing games 

If you have an existing console it’s worth thinking about compatibility with the games you’ve already invested in. The good news is that if you insert an Xbox 360 game into an Xbox One console, you’ll be able to download a digital version of the game. PS4 only gives you one option to play older games and that is to subscribe to PSNow, a streaming service that lets you play PS3 games on your PC – but it’ll set you back $20 a month. 

Online 

Both Sony and Microsoft have some good online services, with PlayStation Plus and Xbox Live Gold providing access to online gaming, free games each month, sale discounts and specials. Both services will cost you around $80 a year for an annual subscription. If you want to play multiple players online, you’ll need a subscription, but with the inclusions that come with it, it’s probably money well spent. 

Accessories 

When it comes to accessories to go with your PS4 or Xbox One, the sky really is the limit. A top of the range headset can set you back up to $500, and if you’re in to virtual reality, you can pick yourself up a PlayStation VR for around $550. For Gran Turisimo fans, a Thrustmaster T-GT Racing Wheel will really put you in the driver's seat but at $1200 it’s definitely an accessory for the die-hard gamer or that special someone in your life. 

No matter which console you prefer there’s no doubt about it – gaming can chew up a big chunk of change!  If you can’t wait for your new Xbox One or PS4, or if you just need to get your hands on that cool new accessory right now, then don’t forget to check out our flexible mini-loans that make it super easy to get some extra funds. Once a loan is approved, we can usually get a payment into your bank account within 24 hours - so you could be just a day away from hitting the store.