It’s been over three months since Rockstar dropped the GTA 6 trailer, and the hype hasn’t faded one bit. In fact, the anticipation keeps growing as we inch closer to the official release date on May 26, 2025.
But there’s one catch. If you want to play GTA 6 at launch, you’ll need a console. Rockstar has confirmed that the game will not release on PC at launch, which means even lifelong PC players will need to consider buying a console if they want to join the action on day one.
This brings us to the big question: Which console should you buy for GTA 6?
In this article, we’ll break down every supported console, analyzing performance, pricing, pros, and cons so you can decide what’s right for you. From budget options to ultimate high-end machines, here’s a complete guide.
🟢 Step 1: Understanding the Console Options
Before we dive into specific models, it’s worth setting the stage. GTA 6 will only launch on next-gen consoles:
- Xbox Series S
- Xbox Series X
- PlayStation 5 (Digital, Disc, Slim)
- PlayStation 5 Pro
Older systems like PS4 and Xbox One will not support GTA 6. Likewise, PC gamers will have to wait, possibly for a year or more, before Rockstar brings the game to Windows.
With that in mind, let’s explore each option in detail.
2️⃣ Xbox Series S – The Cheapest Entry Point
If you’re looking for the most affordable way to play GTA 6, the Xbox Series S is your best bet.
🔧 Hardware Overview
- CPU: AMD 8-core Zen 2
- RAM: 10 GB
- GPU Power: ~4 teraflops
The Series S is the least powerful next-gen console. According to benchmarks and Digital Foundry’s predictions, GTA 6 will likely run at:
- Resolution: 720p upscaled
- Frame Rate: 30 FPS locked
- Features: No ray tracing, limited graphical enhancements
So while the visuals won’t blow your mind, it’ll still deliver the core GTA 6 experience.
💰 Pricing
- New unit: ~$379 (often sold out locally)
- Secondhand: $230–$300
- GTA 6 game price: $70
- Total setup cost: $300–$380
📌 Subscription Note
You’ll also need Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for GTA Online multiplayer, costing around $10/month. The upside is that Game Pass gives you access to hundreds of other titles on day one.
👉 Best For: Casual players who only want to play GTA 6 without breaking the bank.
3️⃣ PlayStation 5 – The Most Popular Choice
Moving up the ladder, we come to the PlayStation 5, which has dominated the global console market since its release.
🔧 Hardware Overview
- CPU: AMD 8-core Zen 2
- RAM: 16 GB
- GPU Power: ~10 teraflops
Here’s the important part: Rockstar confirmed that the GTA 6 trailer footage was captured on a base PS5. This means the PS5 will deliver the experience exactly as Rockstar intends.
Predicted performance:
- Resolution: Upscaled 1440p
- Frame Rate: 30 FPS locked
- Features: Advanced graphics, smooth open-world rendering
💰 Pricing
- Disc edition: $549.99
- Digital edition: $449.99
- Secondhand: $380–$430
- GTA 6 game: $70
- Total setup cost: $520–$620 (new)
📌 Online Play
You’ll need PlayStation Plus for GTA Online, priced at $10/month (cheaper if billed yearly).
🎮 Exclusive Games Advantage
This is where the PS5 shines. Beyond GTA 6, you’ll gain access to exclusives like Spider-Man 2, God of War: Ragnarok, Horizon Forbidden West, and Final Fantasy XVI. If you’re looking for variety, PS5 has the stronger exclusive lineup compared to Xbox.
👉 Best For: Players who want Rockstar’s intended GTA 6 experience plus access to Sony exclusives.
4️⃣ Xbox Series X – The Best Value for Money
If the Series S is the budget pick and the PS5 is the most popular, then the Xbox Series X sits comfortably as the best value-for-money option.
🔧 Hardware Overview
- CPU: AMD 8-core Zen 2
- RAM: 16 GB
- GPU Power: ~12 teraflops
That GPU makes it technically more powerful than the PS5. For GTA 6, expect similar performance to PS5:
- Resolution: Upscaled 1440p
- Frame Rate: 30 FPS locked
- Features: Comparable visuals to PS5
💰 Pricing
- Standard edition: $599
- Secondhand: $380–$430
- GTA 6 game: $70
- Total setup cost: $450–$550 (secondhand)
📌 Why It’s Great Value
While the PS5 is pricier, the Series X offers equal or slightly better performance at a lower cost (if bought secondhand). Plus, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate adds unmatched value for players who want more than just GTA 6.
👉 Best For: Gamers who want maximum performance without paying PS5 Pro prices.
5️⃣ PlayStation 5 Pro – The Ultimate Experience
Finally, the powerhouse: PS5 Pro. Initially criticized for its high price, developers have recently started fully optimizing for it — and the results are stunning.
🔧 Hardware Overview
- CPU: AMD Zen 2 (higher clocks)
- RAM: 16 GB
- GPU Power: ~14–15 teraflops
Leaks suggest GTA 6 may run at:
- Resolution: 4K native
- Frame Rate: Possibly 60 FPS
- Features: Ray tracing, higher-quality lighting, and better texture rendering
This would make PS5 Pro the best possible way to play GTA 6 at launch.
💰 Pricing
- PS5 Pro Digital: $749.99
- Disc drive add-on: +$90
- GTA 6: $70
- PlayStation Plus yearly: $85.99
- Total setup cost: ~$900
👉 Best For: Hardcore gamers who want the absolute best graphics and performance on launch day.
🚫 What About Other Consoles?
Now that we’ve covered the main options, let’s quickly address other systems people often ask about.
❌ PlayStation 4 and Xbox One
GTA 6 is not releasing on these older-gen systems. They simply don’t have the power to handle Rockstar’s new engine and scale.
❓ Nintendo Switch 2
Rumors suggest the Switch 2 could rival the Series S in power. However, Rockstar has given no confirmation of GTA 6 coming to Switch. Even if it does, expect a heavily scaled-down version.
⌛ PC Version
For PC gamers, the wait will be longer. Based on Rockstar’s history (GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2), the PC port may arrive 12–18 months after console launch. The upside is that the PC version will likely be the most polished and moddable edition.
🆚 Quick Comparison Table
| Console | Price Range (New) | Predicted Performance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox Series S | $230–$379 | 720p, 30 FPS | Budget players |
| PlayStation 5 | $449–$549 | 1440p, 30 FPS | Mainstream choice |
| Xbox Series X | $599 (new) | 1440p, 30 FPS | Best value |
| PlayStation 5 Pro | $749–$839 | 4K, up to 60 FPS | Premium players |
❓ FAQs About GTA 6 Consoles
Q1: Should I buy a console now or wait for PC?
If you want to play on launch day, you’ll need a console. If you’re patient, waiting for the PC release will give you better graphics and mods.
Q2: Is Xbox Series S too weak for GTA 6?
It will run the game, but at lower resolution and frame rates. It’s fine for casual players, but not ideal for graphics enthusiasts.
Q3: Is the PS5 Pro worth the extra cost?
If you want the best visuals and performance, yes. But for most players, a standard PS5 or Series X will be good enough.
Q4: Will GTA 6 be cross-platform?
Rockstar hasn’t confirmed yet. Given the trend in modern games, it’s likely GTA Online will support crossplay eventually.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is based on current leaks, official announcements, and expert predictions as of 2025. Performance estimates for GTA 6 are subject to change depending on Rockstar’s optimization and future patches. Always check official sources before purchasing hardware.
✅ Final Thoughts
So, which console should you buy for GTA 6?
- On a budget? Get the Xbox Series S.
- Want Rockstar’s intended experience + exclusives? Pick the PlayStation 5.
- Want the best value? Go for the Xbox Series X.
- Want the ultimate launch experience? Invest in the PS5 Pro.
No matter what you choose, GTA 6 is set to redefine open-world gaming. The only question is: will you be ready on May 26th?
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