How many consoles exist?

Video game consoles have been evolving since the 1970s, spanning from simple early systems to today’s powerful and compact machines. So, how many different consoles actually exist?

Counting Game Consoles: What’s Included?

When we talk about “how many consoles exist,” it depends on what you count:

  • Home Consoles: Traditional gaming machines you connect to a TV or monitor (like PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch).

  • Handheld Consoles: Portable devices with built-in screens (like Game Boy, PSP, Nintendo DS).

  • Micro Consoles / Mini Consoles: Tiny versions or retro re-releases (like NES Classic Edition, PlayStation Classic).

  • Hybrid Consoles: Devices that can be used both as handheld and home consoles (like Nintendo Switch).

  • Specialized Consoles: Less mainstream or region-specific consoles (like Sega Saturn, TurboGrafx-16).

  • Retro and Obscure Consoles: Including early systems, failed consoles, and limited-release devices.

How Many Consoles Are There?

Approximate numbers based on known console releases:

  • Home Consoles: Over 150 unique models since the 1970s, including all major and minor brands worldwide.

  • Handheld Consoles: Around 100+ models, including all Nintendo handhelds, Sony PSP versions, and various others.

  • Micro & Mini Consoles: 20–30 popular retro mini consoles released in recent years.

  • Hybrid Consoles: Currently only a handful (Nintendo Switch, some lesser-known hybrids).

  • Overall Total: Over 300 distinct console models have been released globally over the last 50 years.

This number grows if you include regional exclusives, clone consoles, or very niche devices.

Why So Many?

  • Different generations and upgrades (e.g., PlayStation, PS2, PS3, PS4, PS5).

  • Multiple brands and companies trying to capture markets (Sega, Atari, NEC, SNK, etc.).

  • Retro revival trend with mini consoles.

  • Handheld gaming has been very popular, spawning many iterations.

  • Experimental or failed consoles that were released briefly.

🛒 Shop Popular Consoles

If you’re interested in buying classic or modern consoles, check out these stores:

  • GameLoopX — Wide selection of retro and new consoles.

  • Amazon — Variety of consoles and bundles.

🎮 Final Thoughts

From the legendary Atari 2600 to the cutting-edge PlayStation 5, over 300 different game console models exist, each representing a unique piece of gaming history and technology evolution. Whether you’re a collector, casual player, or tech enthusiast, there’s a console out there for everyone.