PS4, Xbox, Switch: Which is for you?

For video game fans, this is the most wonderful time of the year. With Black Friday approaching, there are plenty of deals to go around. For players who have yet to make the leap, or for parents and loved ones in search of gamer gifts, the big question is: What game console should I choose? Here are your options:

PlayStation 4

How much does it cost? Standard model: $299.99; PS4 Pro: $399.99

❚ Why should I choose this console?

PlayStation still hosts a diverse selection of titles strictly for its console. Both models support HDR (high-dynamic range) and let you use PlayStation VR, the most affordable high-end option for virtual reality. On Pro, you gain improved 4K resolution on games and streaming apps. There’s also access to PlayStation Vue, Sony’s streaming TV service, available for a monthly subscription. It also supports other entertainment apps, as well as monthly subscription service PlayStation Now, where players can enjoy older games.

❚ How are the parental controls?

Users can restrict the types of games based on age. You can also set age levels for the use of Blu-ray Discs or DVDs, as well as restrict access to the Internet browser or PlayStation VR. Accounts are guarded with a passcode.

Xbox One

How much does it cost? Xbox One S starts at $249.99; Xbox One X starts at $499.99

❚ Why should I choose this console?

You can play a lot of the same games you can on a PS4, but at a lower price. And both models support 4K video streaming and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Discs. If you bump up to the X, you get 4K gaming as well. Xbox supports many apps such as Netflix and Hulu, as well as exclusives like the NFL. Owners can play their older games, and Xbox also has a subscription service for older titles.

❚ How are the parental controls?

Owners can restrict games, music, apps and videos based on ratings. There are two options for filtering the console’s browser: allowing basic communication and blocking all adult sites, or limiting surfing to only sites added by parents. Owners can also limit what kids can download from the Xbox store, whether it’s just free apps and games only, or nothing at all.

Nintendo Switch

How much does it cost? Only one model, starts at $299.99 ❚ Why should I choose this console?

It is like having a home and mobile console in one. The Switch docks into a charging station connected to your television. Users can pop out the tablet-like device and play it like a handheld, with its two Joy-con controllers at the sides. Users can also remove the controllers and prop up the Switch using a kickstand in tabletop mode. Plus, as with other Nintendo devices, Switch is more family-friendly.

❚ How are the parental controls?

Of the three, Switch has the best features for parents, highlighted by a mobile app for iOS and Android. In the app, parents can set the types of game their kids can play, and if or when they can communicate with other players. Switch dominates its peers in the option to set timers to limit how long your kids can play, along with summaries of their activity.