Four CNET-recommended gaming devices – ranging from hand-held to console to VR – that any gamer would probably go nuts over.
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Sony PlayStation 4 Pro
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/sony-playstation-4-pro/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (Outstanding)
The good: The PS4 Pro outputs a 4K- and HDR signal that’s compatible with high-end TVs, and promises better visuals and increased frame rates for certain games. The console includes a 1TB hard drive, and it works with all PS4 games, apps and accessories to date.
The bad: Out of the gate, only a handful of titles offer dramatic improvements. In reality, most games that support Pro enhancements don’t offer a drastic difference in quality when comparing standard and Pro games side-by-side. Specific information on game improvements can be shoddy. The PS4 Pro does not play Ultra HD 4K Blu-ray discs.
The cost: $430.00
The bottom line: The PlayStation 4 Pro only shows noticeable improvements in a limited number of the games we were able to test, but that could change with titles coming in the months and years ahead.
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Nintendo Switch
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/nintendo-switch/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: The Nintendo Switch is a versatile hybrid game console that easily pivots between a big-screen TV and on-the-go portable. The initially slim game library now includes a good mixture of must-have Nintendo franchise exclusives, indie titles and even some decent PC ports.
The bad: No Virtual Console (yet) means no access to decades worth of classic Nintendo games. The screen feels small during tabletop sessions. Online multiplayer requires matchmaking on a smartphone app, and Hulu is the only entertainment app.
The cost: $295.89 to $299.99
The bottom line: The unique TV-or-mobile gaming proposition of the Nintendo Switch is now matched by a stellar library of games, including instant-classics like new Zelda and Mario titles.
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Nintendo Labo
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/nintendo-labo/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: Incredible cardboard designs. Really well-done step-by-step instructions. Labo’s software and games are fun to play and explore. There’s a lot to do, and a sense that many secrets await unlocking.
The bad: Yes, it’s mostly just cardboard. The kits can be daunting for younger kids. There’s a risk of things breaking, so handle with care. And, where do you store all those large cardboard things later on?
The cost: $69.99
The bottom line: Nintendo Labo is a fun and unique Switch add-on — a Lego-meets-Ikea cardboard construction set that will unlock kids’ real-world creativity.
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HTC Vive
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/htc-vive-review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: The HTC Vive offers a flat-out amazing virtual reality experience with sharp visuals, great motion controls and full-room sensing to walk around in virtual space. Vive hardware can help indicate where your walls are, and an in-helmet camera can be used to see your space with the headset on.
The bad: It requires a high-end PC to run. Long wires and lots of equipment take time and space to set up. Steam VR offers a lot of software but it isn’t always beginner-friendly.
The cost: $499.
The bottom line: Vive is the best virtual-reality experience you can have right now, thanks to its motion controls and room-scale tracking. It’s the closest thing to having a holodeck in your home.
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The following CNET staff contributed to this story: Section Editor Dan Ackerman, Senior Editor Jeff Bakalar, Senior Editor Scott Stein and Senior Editor Laura K. Cucullu. For more reviews of personal technology products, please visit www.cnet.com.
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