PC: Everything you need to know

The debate between gaming PCs and consoles isn’t new. Both have “die-hard” fans. Most importantly, personal computers and consoles have their own unique pros and cons, making the comparison subjective. While it all boils down to factors like preferences and budget, we’ve discussed the subject in depth.

Ideally, consoles are great for casual players, while personal computers are perfect for individuals looking for additional features and robust choices. Here’s more information to help you make an informed decision in the decades-old battle of computers vs. Consoles.

Graphics

If you are focused on picking the best tool in regards to graphics, desktops are undefeated. The hardware inside the latest computer outperforms the parts installed in the latest consoles like PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. These computers can accommodate gameplay in higher graphics settings imaginable today than consoles. PCs also offer smoother frame rates. While 30fps is the standard for playability, computers can offer up to 60-120fps offering an unmatched gaming experience.

Game selection

Video game computers also stand out for offering the best variety of games. There are many online game platforms where you can browse, purchase, and even launch your own games. The same can’t be said about major console game platforms. PlayStation and Xbox game stores don’t offer as much variety as online game stores.

It’s also worth noting that some game genres i.e., MOBAs, MMOs, and strategy games are missing in console game stores. The master race also stand out for offering a better indie scene and endless selection for mods.

While there’s no significant gap between computer and console game releases nowadays except for some perfectly timed exclusive titles, desktops dominate the most critical factor when playing video games – which is the game selection. Some console games may never find their way to Esports arenas, but nothing beats the master race in regards to game selection.

There’s also a significant number of certain games accessible to PC gamers long before they are accessible to console gamers. These gamers are usually the first to get certain games. The most notable examples being “Minecraft” and “PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds”.

Mods (modifications)

Computers also benefits from modifications made by tech-savvy gamers. Many aspects of PC games can be enhanced i.e., graphics and content. Popular games like GTA V are great examples of games that have enjoyed unmatched “modders” attention.

Modifications make a game look better than normal. They also come with added features i.e., weapons and humor. Computers give you the unique ability to choose how you play, with more personalized configurations. While console controllers are generally favored, the mouse and keyboard offer better functionality for novice gamers in regards to certain games (shooting games).

Most importantly, gamers can still use identical console controllers and joysticks so they don’t loose on anything. Special features like assisted aiming available with gaming PCs lock on targets better when you are aiming in a general direction.

While console gamers are confined to standard controllers, computer gamers can play with whatever they like best. They also get to play on feature-packed monitors or TVs instead of being confined to the latter. Consoles games are optimized to work on TVs. Computer monitors have additional features that are foreign in TVs. For instance, console games can’t fill up ultrawide screens (21:9).

Pricing

The PC vs. Console pricing comparison can be explored in regards to system, display, controller, game, and membership pricing.

The latest consoles (PS4 and Xbox One) cost approximately $400. The new PS5 will cost approximately $500 for the standard configuration (with a disc-drive) while the digital edition will cost approximately $400. An Xbox One console costs approximately $500. The Xbox Series X will cost approximately the same when it is released on 10^th November 2020.

Of course, maxing out a computer will cost much more than a console. However, if you are building your own with used hardware, the cost is roughly the same or lower. What’s more, personal computers can always be upgraded with new parts. The same can’t be said about consoles.

In regards to display pricing, the master race wins given you can find a great monitor for less than $150. 1080P HDTVs cost twice as much or more. Controller pricing is better for computers compared to console controllers costing up to twice the price of a good Logitech keyboard and mouse.

Console games are also more costly than computer games. While the price of physical games may be comparable, computers “take the day” in regards to digital game pricing. Steam is popular for its sales. The platform offers a wide variety of games coupled with frequent offers and great discounts on all types of games, including the most recent AAA games. PC game stores face competition that keeps prices low. The same isn’t true for PlayStation and Xbox game stores. Most digital games sell at the same price as physical copies and hardly see any decline in prices unless there are sporadic sales, which aren’t as numerous or generous as for downloadables.

There’s more – computers don’t have membership charges when playing online. When console gamers are paying approximately $20 or $60 per year for Xbox and PlayStation membership respectively, PC gamers don’t pay anything for online play. While membership charges for online console play are usually discounted, the savings are insignificant.

There are other notable benefits of desktops over consoles. For instance, unless you stay alone, you may need your own TV to enjoy uninterrupted streaming experiences. You can also build a computer to match your exact taste and preferences, which is incredibly satisfying. With companies like Skytech who provide a variety or entry level and pro level computers to choose from. You can purchase a ready-made prebuilt or customize your own system. You can choose anything from graphics cards to lighting and memory.

If you want a faster/better console, you must wait for a new release. Alternatively, you can build a custom personal computer right now by buying individual parts or getting a ready-made prebuilt. While both consoles and personal computers have their pros and cons. Desktops are clearly better for seasoned players who don’t want their gaming experiences to be limited in any way regardless of critical factors like cost and future capabilities i.e. Virtual Reality.