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Platforms · Crossplay
Console vs PC
Who you can play with, what you can install, how each version runs and which DLC it has. The honest comparison before you buy, or buy again.
Side by side
Every version, side by side
| PC (Steam) | PC (Microsoft Store) | Xbox Series X|S | PlayStation 5 | Switch 2 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Version | Native | Native | Native since 1.29 | PS4 version on PS5 | Cool Edition (Aug 2026) |
| Plays with | Steam only | Xbox | Microsoft Store PC | PlayStation only | Switch 2 only |
| Mods | Yes, thousands | No | No | No | No |
| Community servers | Thousands | Shared with Xbox | Nitrado | Nitrado | Limited |
| Frostline (Sakhal) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Included |
| Badlands (Nasdara) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (PS4 add-on) | Not yet |
| Latest version | 1.30.164200 | Xbox build | 1.87 | 1.87 | Separate |
| Aiming | Mouse | Mouse | Controller | Controller | Controller + gyro |
Crossplay
Is DayZ crossplay?
Partly. Since update 1.29, Xbox and the Microsoft Store PC version share servers. Steam and PlayStation are each on their own. There is no crossplay between Steam and console, or between PlayStation and Xbox. Your character and progress do not move between platforms.
If your friends are on Xbox and you are on PC, buy the Microsoft Store (Xbox app) version, not Steam.
Mods
Mods are PC only
Steam PC servers can run Workshop mods: new maps, weapons, vehicles, traders, base building and full overhauls. Console servers run the official game, with settings like loot and day length changed by the server owner. If heavily modded servers are what you want, it has to be Steam. See how mods work on servers.
Performance
How each version runs
- PC depends on your machine. A mid-range PC from the last five years gives a smoother game than any console. See settings.
- Xbox Series X|S runs the native version from 1.29, a clear step up from the old Xbox One build.
- PS5 runs the PS4 version through backward compatibility: faster loading, but no native PS5 version.
- Switch 2 is the newest port, with gyro aiming and Frostline included, at $69.99.
Our take
Which should you buy?
Buy on Steam if
You want mods, the most servers, mouse aim and the community tools.
Buy on Xbox or Microsoft Store if
Your friends are on Xbox, or you want to play the same character between Xbox and a PC.
Buy on PlayStation if
Your friends are on PlayStation. It is the only way to play with them.
Buy on Switch 2 if
You want DayZ portable and do not need Badlands yet.
This section is our opinion.
Quick answers
Questions people ask
Is DayZ crossplay between PC and console?
Only between Xbox and the Microsoft Store PC version, since update 1.29. Steam and PlayStation have no crossplay.
Is DayZ crossplay between PS5 and Xbox?
No. PlayStation players only play with other PlayStation players.
Can you use mods on DayZ console?
No. Mods are only on PC (Steam) servers.
Is there a native PS5 version of DayZ?
No. PS5 players run the PS4 version. Xbox Series X|S has a native version since 1.29.
Is DayZ on Switch 2?
Yes, the Cool Edition launched on 20 August 2026 with gyro aiming and Frostline. Badlands is not available on Switch 2 yet.
Keep going
More guides and tools
Last checked 28 October 2026, against DayZ 1.30 (PC 1.30.164200, console 1.87).