Setting a console up means opening the box. Most stores treat an opened console differently from a sealed one for returns, and some treat it as final sale. Only do this once you're certain it's the right console. If you're not sure yet, see store return policies and how to confirm which console they need.
Before you start
Decide two things before you plug anything in:
- Whose account will it be? Every console wants an account at setup: a PlayStation account, a Microsoft account for Xbox, or a Nintendo Account for Switch 2. For a child, the parent sets up their own account first, then creates or approves the child's account inside a family group.
- Do they already have an account? If an adult or teen already plays on another console from the same brand, they'll want to sign in with their existing account so their games and progress carry over. In that case, do the update and downloads, but leave the sign-in for them.
The night-before checklist
- Find a spot near the router. Plug the console into the TV with the included HDMI cable and connect it to your Wi-Fi, or with an Ethernet cable if you have one. A wired connection is usually faster for big downloads.
- Run the system update. All three consoles check for a system update during setup. Let it finish. This is the step that eats Christmas mornings.
- Create or sign in to the account. For a child, set up the parent account first, then the child account inside the family group. Write the passwords down somewhere safe, not on the box.
- Set parental controls now. Spending limits, play-time limits, age restrictions and online chat settings are much easier to set before the child has the controller. Each brand has a free phone app for this; details are below. Our ESRB guide explains which age settings to choose.
- Install the games. Put in any discs or cartridges, redeem any download codes, and let the downloads finish. Many games also download an update the first time they're installed. On Switch 2, Game-Key Card games need internet and free storage to download, and need internet for the first launch.
- Charge every controller. PlayStation and Switch 2 controllers charge from the console. Xbox controllers usually run on AA batteries, so have spares ready.
- Launch each game once. This catches any last update or sign-in prompt. Then quit back to the home screen.
- Power down and rewrap. Turn the console fully off, pack it back in its box with the controllers and cables, and wrap it. It will remember everything.
Platform-specific notes
PlayStation 5
The PS5 checks for a system update during setup and asks you to sign in to or create a PlayStation account. For a child, the parent needs their own account set up as the family manager, then creates the child's account. Parental controls can be managed from the console or Sony's family app on your phone.
Xbox Series X|S
Xbox setup can be done with the Xbox app on your phone while the console downloads its update, which saves time. It asks for a Microsoft account. Child accounts are set up through a Microsoft family group, and the Xbox Family Settings app handles screen time, spending and chat.
Nintendo Switch 2
The Switch 2 offers a system update during first-time setup once it's connected to the internet. Child accounts need a parent or guardian to give consent and add them to the parent's family group. The free Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app is the easiest way to manage limits.
Upgrading from an original Switch? Nintendo's system transfer moves their games and saves. Both consoles need internet, and the old Switch needs the latest system update. If you're doing it secretly, the server transfer option uploads the old Switch's data, which can be downloaded onto the new one later. It's kept for up to a year. Note that a server transfer resets the old Switch, so don't do it behind their back if they're still using it.
Buying digital games during setup is convenient, but it locks them in. A PlayStation Store purchase can only be cancelled within 14 days if it hasn't started downloading, and Nintendo eShop purchases are generally final. Only buy digital games here that you're confident about.
Christmas morning kit
- A power strip near the TV, since the console, TV and charging controllers all want outlets
- Spare AA batteries if it's an Xbox
- The account passwords, written down
- A second controller if more than one person will want to play. See gifts to go with a new console.
- The gift receipt, tucked somewhere safe
That's it. Back to the main gift guide.
Quick answers
Will setting up a console before Christmas affect returns?
Yes. Opening the box usually means it's no longer a sealed return, and some stores treat opened hardware differently or as final sale. Only set it up once you're sure it's the right console, and check the store's policy first.
Do I need internet to set up a new console?
For a good first day, yes. PS5, Xbox and Switch 2 all go online during setup to check for system updates, sign in to an account and download games. Some games sold in boxes also need a download before they'll play.
Can I set up a child's account for them?
Yes, and you should. PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo all have the parent create or approve the child's account through a family group, which is also where you set spending limits, play time and online chat rules.
How do I move games from an old Switch to a Switch 2?
Nintendo offers a system transfer. Both consoles need internet and the old Switch must be fully updated. You can transfer locally with both consoles together, or through Nintendo's servers, which keeps the data for up to a year.
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