Alongside planning your next crime spree in Grand Theft Auto 6, there's one big question to answer before you hit the streets: which console should you play it on? Not every current-generation system packs the same hardware, and those differences can affect everything from graphics to frame rates and loading times.

If you're eyeing an upgrade or just want to know if your current console is up to the task, it's worth taking a closer look before getting into it. After all, nobody wants to spend hours stealing sports cars only to wonder if they could have looked just a little shinier. Here's how each console compares and what you can expect from Rockstar's biggest game yet.

All Consoles, Explained

Before choosing a console, it's worth knowing what each one offers. While all four systems can run Grand Theft Auto 6, their hardware differences affect performance and overall experience.

Console

Specs

What To Expect In GTA 6

PlayStation 5

Mid-range current-generation console with a fast SSD, 16GB of memory, and a capable RDNA 2 GPU.

Smooth gameplay, fast loading times, and strong visuals with few compromises.

PlayStation 5 Pro

Sony's most powerful console, which has a stronger GPU, faster CPU, AI upscaling (PSSR), and a larger SSD.

The best PlayStation version, with higher image quality, better performance, and improved visual effects.

Xbox Series X

Microsoft's flagship console with a powerful 12 TFLOP GPU, 16GB of memory, and a fast SSD.

Excellent 4K performance that should closely compete with the PS5 Pro.

Xbox Series S

Budget-friendly console with a smaller GPU and less memory than the other current-generation systems.

Lower resolutions and reduced graphics settings, but still a solid way to play the game.

Which Console Should You Choose?

Quick answer: PlayStation 5 Pro. Though I break it down further below.

  • If you want the best performance, the PlayStation 5 Pro is the best choice. Its stronger hardware gives it the best chance of getting higher resolutions, smoother frame rates, and better graphics.
  • The Xbox Series X is a close second and should offer pretty similar performance. Unless Rockstar adds specific enhancements for the PS5 Pro, the differences between the two consoles are likely to be small.
  • If you already own a standard PlayStation 5, there is no need to upgrade just for Grand Theft Auto 6. It is still a powerful console and should provide a great experience.
  • The Xbox Series S is the best option if you're looking to save money, but it will also have the biggest compromises. Grand Theft Auto 6 should still be playable, but expect lower graphics quality and performance than on the other current-generation consoles.