Both consoles share identical CPU/GPU architecture and 12 TFLOP performance, but PlayStation 5 leads in exclusive game library (over 300 PS5 exclusives vs 140 Xbox exclusives), while Xbox Series X offers superior value through Game Pass subscription service with 500+ titles included.
PlayStation 5 vs Xbox Series X — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Choose PlayStation 5 if you prioritize exclusive franchises (God of War, Spider-Man, Final Fantasy VII Remake) and advanced haptic controller features for immersive gameplay. Choose Xbox Series X if value-for-money and Game Pass's massive library appeal to you, or if you prefer a more compact console design that fits standard entertainment setups.
Sony's next-gen powerhouse with 10.28 TFLOPS GPU and industry-leading exclusive franchises.
Microsoft's flagship console with 12 TFLOPS GPU power and Game Pass subscription service.
PlayStation 5 vs Xbox Series X — Comparison Data
Structured comparison data for PlayStation 5 vs Xbox Series X with 379 attributes.
Standard Console Launch Price (MSRP 2026)
Average Game Load Time (Major AAA Titles)
Average 4K Gaming Frame Rate (2026 AAA titles)
Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Tier)
Game Pass / PlayStation Plus Tier Titles
Game Pass / Premium Service Monthly Cost
Game Pass/PlayStation Plus Included Games
PlayStation 5 vs Xbox Series X — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for PlayStation 5 vs Xbox Series X.
Which console has better performance in 2026?
Both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X deliver identical performance with 12 TFLOP GPU power and can achieve 4K resolution at 60fps or 1440p at 120fps in supported games. The PS5's faster SSD (5.5GB/s vs 2.4GB/s) results in 1-2 second faster load times, while Xbox's slightly higher CPU clock (3.8GHz vs 3.5GHz) is negligible in real-world gaming. Performance differences are determined by game optimization, not hardware limitations.
Is PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X better for exclusive games?
PlayStation 5 has a commanding lead with over 300 exclusive titles including God of War Ragnarök, Spider-Man 2, Final Fantasy VII Remake, Horizon Forbidden West, and Gran Turismo 7. Xbox Series X offers only 140+ exclusives but includes Starfield, Halo Infinite, and Forza Motorsport. If exclusive AAA franchises are your priority, PlayStation 5 is the stronger choice.
Which console offers better value through subscriptions?
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate ($180/year) provides exceptional value with 500+ games including day-one access to all Microsoft first-party releases—equivalent to $0.36 per game. PlayStation Plus Extra ($120/year) includes 400 games but lacks day-one releases and costs less overall. Game Pass's value proposition is significantly stronger for players who want massive libraries without per-title purchases.
Which console is easier to fit in my entertainment center?
Xbox Series X's compact cuboid design (15.1cm × 15.1cm × 15.1cm) fits easily into standard entertainment setups and shelves. PlayStation 5's vertical design towers at 39cm tall and 10.4cm deep, making it difficult to place in many entertainment centers without custom solutions or wall mounting. If space is limited, Xbox Series X is significantly more practical.
Should I buy a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X in 2026?
Choose PlayStation 5 if you prioritize exclusive story-driven games, want the most advanced controller technology (DualSense haptics), and prefer faster load times. Choose Xbox Series X if you value Game Pass's 500-game library at low cost, want a compact design, or prefer Microsoft's gaming ecosystem including cloud gaming and Xbox Play Anywhere titles. Neither console is objectively 'better'—your choice depends on exclusive game preferences and desired features.