Best Consoles for Kids This Christmas 2025-2026
The festive season of 2025-2026 is shaping up to be exciting for gamers, and especially for kids. With new hardware, beloved family franchises, and devices built for portability and fun, here are the top video game consoles that are going to make ideal gifts for the youngsters this Christmas.
1. Nintendo Switch 2
Launched in June 2025, the Nintendo Switch 2 is the biggest upgrade Nintendo has delivered in years. Tom’s Guide+3Wikipedia+3GameLoopX+3 It retains the hybrid console/handheld design, meaning kids can play on the TV at home or on the go. With better graphics, a higher resolution screen, snappier performance, and a growing library of games aimed at all ages, this makes the Switch 2 one of the safest and most versatile gifts. For a child, it’s perfect: games like Mario Kart, Animal Crossing, and all the family-friendly titles will shine. Plus, parents like the built-in safety features and parental controls. Wikipedia+3TechRadar+3Internet Matters+3
2. Nintendo Switch Lite / OLED Models
For younger kids or more budget-sensitive gifts, Nintendo’s Switch Lite and the Switch OLED model remain strong picks. TechRadar+2codeyoung.com+2 The Lite is lighter, more durable (fewer moving parts, no detachable Joy-Cons), and ideal for travel. The OLED adds better screen quality and more immersive visuals. Great for younger hands and family sharing, these models balance cost with experience.
3. Xbox Series S / Xbox Ecosystem
While the Xbox Series X is powerful, for younger kids the Xbox Series S often makes more sense: less expensive, plenty of great titles, and backward compatibility. Internet Matters+1 Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass is also a big value-add: kids get access to dozens of games without buying each outright. A possible new handheld from Xbox under “Project Keenan” is rumored for late 2025, which could be another attractive option if it hits the market in time. Custom Controllers+2Slashdot Juegos+2
4. Steam Deck OLED
For slightly older kids, or those who love PC gaming but want something portable, the Steam Deck OLED is catching traction as a “travel gaming PC.” TechRadar+1 With a large library of games, many kid-friendly options via Steam, and more controls than some handhelds, it’s more expensive and needs handling, but for the right kid, it’s a dream.
5. New Handhelds & Emerging Consoles
There are a few upcoming or newer consoles worth considering:
- Xbox Handheld (Project Keenan) – expected later in 2025, bringing Xbox titles or cloud-gaming to a handheld format. If it offers good parental controls and durable hardware, it could be a big hit. GameLoopX+1
- Acer Nitro Blaze 11 – a Windows-powered handheld console, with strong specs, detachable controls, etc. GameLoopX
- Retro or simplified handhelds for young kids are also popular: consoles that are built just for educational games, simpler controls, and durability. These often cost less and are great “first consoles.” Internet Matters+1
What Makes a Console a Great Gift for Kids
Here are some criteria to keep in mind:
- Durability & portability: Kids spill stuff, drop things. A console that can handle travel or being used by younger children is valuable.
- Parental controls: That includes control over screen time, content, online communication, and in-game purchases.
- Game library: The console needs good, age-appropriate games. Franchises with recognizable characters and family games are a big win.
- Value for features: Rather than massive power, what matters is gameplay, fun, ease of use, and reliability.
- Longevity: A system that will still get support and new games in 2-3 years is a safer bet.
Final Thoughts
If you’re shopping for gifts this Christmas 2025-2026, the Nintendo Switch 2 is arguably the most all-round “safe bet” for young gamers—incredible versatility, strong games, and cross-use at home and on the go. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly or kid-proof, the Switch Lite/OLED and emerging handhelds may be excellent choices. And for older kids who are serious about gaming, Steam Deck OLED or waiting for new handheld Xbox devices might provide that “wow” gift moment.
Whatever you choose, think about what fits the child’s age, interests, and how the console will be used (in the car, at home, shared among siblings, etc.). With the right match, these consoles won’t just be gifts—they’ll create memories. Happy gifting!
