Budget
PC and console gamers both want the most bang for their buck, but what that looks like and how it’s measured is different for each group. For a console gamer, costs are generally limited to purchasing the console, extra controllers, games, and perhaps online multiplayer passes. For a PC gamer, there’s a wide variety of options to buy if you choose to build your own computer, but not every PC gamer has their own custom-built machine.
Because there’s such a wide variety of possibilities and differences in perceived value, it’s impossible to say either PCs or consoles are more cost-efficient. It completely depends on the individual. The level of customization and performance you’re looking for determines the size your budget needs to be to get the platform you want.
Technical Skills
Generally, PC gamers need to have more technical skills than console gamers. Although it is possible to modify a console by adding new hardware, it’s not necessary. Console gamers do need to be able to install the sequel or update of their games. PC gamers need at least a minimal level of technical skills, even if they purchased a pre-built gaming computer. And by technical skills, we don’t mean the ability to write HTML code, but the ability to set up a computer with a general concept of how it operates. A PC gamer might also want to upgrade hardware components and install new drivers for those components, which calls for an intermediate skill level.
Upgrades
It is possible to add new hardware to a console with a minimal technical skill level. With a PC, the upgrades can be much more extensive. Each hardware component can be upgraded, along with other cosmetic features like the system’s case.
Advantages of console gaming
Consoles have advantages over PCs: They are easy to use, don't require upgrades, make for simple multiplayer with console-owning friends, are generally cheaper, and use wireless controllers that allow you to have a more active experience.
Consoles are simple, easy to use, and cost less
Many gamers choose to play with a console because they are designed for easy set up and maintenance. Console gaming can start minutes after you remove the system from the box. There are no build times or technical skills needed to start having fun. Although the relative costs of consoles and PCs are debatable, generally, consoles cost less than gaming PCs. Plus, newer consoles can be used to stream movies, TV shows, and music — adding another perk to owning a console.
Wireless controllers
Wireless controllers allow you to be more active while playing. Many consoles have games that increase your physical activity and skills.
Advantages of PC gaming
PCs have different advantages, including the ability to customize your PC, create hotkeys, sharper and more lifelike visuals, superior accuracy with peripherals, and greater ability to modify games.
You can customize PC hardware
By building your own gaming PC you can choose where, when and how much you want to invest in your computer. Some gamers invest in maintaining a very high-end computer, preferring to run the newest game releases at the highest possible settings. Others choose to invest in a budget gaming PC and upgrade only when required.
The three components that gamers typically invest and upgrade the most often include:
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Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) or graphics card which turns data into signals which are sent to the monitor. This data then creates the imagery or video you see on the screen.
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Memory (RAM): where game information is stored to be loaded or retrieved quickly. Here gamers consider how much RAM they might need, the frequency at which data can be transferred and speed (latency) of that information. Modern games generally require either 4GB or 8GB as the minimum RAM, newer games are now requiring 16GB and 32GB which helps ensure the best gameplay experience. What to know more about memory for your gaming PC?
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Hard drive or Solid State Drive (SSD) is where game information, data, programs and other applications are stored on the computer permanently and retrieved when required. Most PC gamers prefer a solid state drive, as it provides greater speed, long term durability and reduces power consumption when compared to a hard drive.
PC games cost less
While a lot of gamers think first about the cost of building a PC, one of the lesser discussed advantages of PC gaming is the cost of PC games. With many digital distribution platforms offering PC games, this offers gamers an option to shop around and many find that PC games are cheaper than their console-specific versions.
PC-exclusive titles
It’s true that some games remain console exclusives, but other popular games are PC exclusive as well. Just like with a console, before committing, consider which systems offer the games you love.
So, is a PC better than a console?
When considering the epic battle between console or PC, it’s important to consider not only budget, but what experience overall you are looking to have. As a gamer, are you most concerned with convenience? Or cost? Multi-player online gaming? Do you enjoy or would you be interested in upgrading a computer yourself? At Crucial® the answer is clear; PC gaming is king. It’s a better experience gaming on a PC than console due to all the advantages that PC gaming offers. No matter what you choose, the important thing is to play and have fun.
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