A clear look at how the top cloud gaming platforms perform across devices – and which one fits different gaming needs best.
By 2025, cloud gaming has solidified its place as a practical alternative to traditional setups. Rather than investing in expensive hardware and managing regular upgrades, more players are choosing to stream games directly from remote servers to everyday devices like laptops, smartphones, and smart TVs.
With just a stable internet connection and access to the right platform, users can enjoy graphically demanding titles without needing a high-end graphics card or console. This article compares three leading cloud gaming services to help readers choose the one that best suits their setup and gaming style.
Xbox Cloud Gaming (Game Pass Ultimate)
Part of Microsoft’s ecosystem, Xbox Cloud Gaming is bundled with the Game Pass Ultimate subscription. Rather than linking to existing game stores, the service provides access to a curated library of more than 100 games, including new Xbox Game Studios releases on day one.
The service supports play on Xbox consoles, PCs, smartphones, tablets, and browsers. Game progress is synced across platforms, offering seamless transitions between devices.
Key advantages
- Integrated with Xbox and Windows environments
- Access to a large and rotating game library
- Supports cloud play across multiple device types
- Included with Game Pass Ultimate
Pricing:$22.99/month (Game Pass Ultimate)
Summary:Xbox Cloud Gaming is ideal for users already in the Microsoft ecosystem, as well as those seeking subscription-based access to a large collection of games.
Boosteroid
The platform supports over 1,200 titles from various developers and hosted on popular distribution platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, Wargaming, and others. It offers 4K resolution and up to 120 FPS on compatible connections, with no session time limits or monthly hour caps. Boosteroid works across browsers and apps on Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, and smart TVs – and iOS users can access it via browsers.
Boosteroid is currently the largest independent cloud gaming provider in the world, unaffiliated with any major corporation. Since early 2025, the service has expanded its infrastructure with new data centers in the U.S., Brazil, and European countries, now operating across 27 locations globally.
In May 2025, Boosteroid began rolling out AV1 codec support across devices, which allows for improved video quality and reduced data usage. Its proprietary server architecture is optimized specifically for cloud gaming performance.
Key advantages:
- Supports games users already own from Steam, Epic, and others
- Offers 4K and 120 FPS with no session limits
- Global infrastructure across 27 server locations
- Available on nearly any device
- Uses AV1 codec for efficient streaming
- Fully independent service with responsive support
Pricing:$9.89/month or $7.49/month with a yearly Ultra Plan subscription
Summary:Boosteroid is a cost-effective option for users seeking high streaming quality and device flexibility, especially for those who want to play games they already own across platforms.
GeForce NOW
GeForce NOW is NVIDIA’s performance-focused cloud gaming service, known for its robust infrastructure and support for existing game libraries. Users can link accounts from Steam, Epic Games Store, and Ubisoft Connect to stream supported titles they already own.
The platform offers multiple plans, including a free tier and a premium Ultimate tier with RTX 4080-class server access, 4K resolution, and up to 120 FPS. It supports a wide range of devices, including browsers, PCs, macOS, Android, and iOS (via browser).
Key strengths:
- Supports over 2,000 games
- Allows users to play from their existing digital libraries
- High-performance streaming with RTX and 4K support
- Broad device compatibility
- Available in multiple server regions
Pricing:Free plan availablePerformance Tier: $10.99/monthUltimate Tier: $21.99/month
Summary:GeForce NOW suits gamers who already own games and are looking for top-tier visual fidelity, advanced graphics features, and wide device support.
Amazon Luna
Amazon Luna offers a distinct approach to cloud gaming through its modular, channel-based subscription model. Rather than linking to existing game libraries, Luna provides themed content collections (or “channels”) such as Luna+ (general games), Ubisoft+ (Ubisoft titles), and the Family Channel (games for younger audiences and casual players). Each channel has its own subscription and game list.
Luna works across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS (via browser), and Fire TV devices. The service is particularly well-suited to households or players looking for simplicity and curated access. Luna also supports the optional Luna Controller, which connects directly to Amazon’s servers for lower latency, though standard Bluetooth controllers are also supported.
While Luna is easy to use and setup-friendly, it currently lacks 4K resolution and has a smaller catalog compared to competitors. Its availability is also region-limited.
Key strengths:
- Flexible channel-based subscription model
- Prime Gaming integration for periodic access to free titles
- Smooth compatibility with Fire TV and mobile devices
- Simple setup and family-oriented offerings
Pricing:Starts at $9.99/month, depending on selected channels
Summary:Amazon Luna is best suited for casual players, families, or users who prefer a curated experience without needing to manage separate game libraries. Its modular pricing and user-friendly interface make it an accessible way to get started with cloud gaming.
Final Thoughts
Cloud gaming is rapidly becoming a strong competitor to traditional PC and console setups. Boosteroid offers a balanced solution, affordable, high-performing, and compatible with games users already own. Xbox Cloud Gaming provides a streamlined experience for those who prefer subscription access to a curated library. GeForce NOW stands out for performance-focused players with large existing libraries and a desire for premium visuals.
Choosing the right service depends on personal gaming habits, available hardware, and whether the user prefers a subscription model or streaming owned titles. All three platforms show that gaming no longer requires high-end hardware, just a reliable connection and the right platform.
