Overall Findings
Once you get past the very different business models, these services are very similar. They both leverage massive global cloud computing networks, they both run in web browsers on desktop computers and mobile devices, and they both work with the respective streaming hardware produced by their parent companies. Stadia offers higher 4K resolution gaming, but Luna is expected to close that gap before leaving early access.
Hardware Requirements: Stadia Works With Older Operating Systems
Luna and Stadia have similar requirements, but Stadia is designed to work with older operating systems. Luna only works with Windows 10 during early access, while you can play Stadia on a Windows 7 computer through the Chrome browser. Similarly, Luna requires macOS 10.13 or higher, while Stadia works with macOS 10.9 or higher. Luna requires iOS 14 for iPhone and iPad on the mobile side of things, while Stadia requires iOS 11 or newer. Stadia also works with compatible Android phones running Android 6.0 or newer, while Luna doesn’t support Android phones or tablets during early access. Luna does have more comprehensive streaming device support than Stadia, as it works with all 2nd gen and newer Fire TV devices, while Stadia requires Chromecast Ultra. Stadia is the better choice here if you’re using slightly older hardware or an Android phone, but the Luna requirements will likely lessen once early access ends.
Input Methods: Simmilar, but Stadia Offers Wider Controller Support
Luna and Stadia have very similar input methods. Both services have proprietary Wi-Fi controllers with built-in lag reduction technology. USB and Bluetooth controllers connect first to a device and then to the server through that device. The Luna and Stadia controller connect directly to your wireless router via Wi-Fi and send your inputs directly to the game servers with no computer, phone, or streaming device to act as a middleman. The tech inside the Luna and Stadia controllers is similar, as is the overall design. The most significant difference is that the Stadia has symmetrical analog stick placement like a Sony DualShock controller. In contrast, the Luna has asymmetric placement like an Xbox One or Nintendo Switch Pro controller.
Internet Requirements: Both Services Are Identical
Luna and Stadia have identical internet requirements, with a high-speed internet connection of at least 10 Mbps download as the bare minimum. Both services also recommend at least 35Mbps for streaming 4K, with faster connections allowing for better graphic fidelity and higher performance.
Game Library: Each Approaches Offerings Differently
During early access, the Luna library consists of over 70 games. You don’t have to buy them individually, as your monthly subscription fee entitles you to play any games in the Luna library as much as you like. You also have the option to add additional games to the list by paying an additional fee. For example, subscribing to the Ubisoft channel gives you access to older hits and new releases from Ubisoft. Google Stadia has a more extensive library, with over 100 games available, but you can’t play them all for free. Stadia Pro subscribers get at least one free game per month, which is added to their library just like a purchased game, but they have to buy other games. Non-subscribers also have to buy games to play them. Luna takes the edge in this category, as the monthly subscription fee represents a pretty great deal for access to over 70 games. That’s still a relatively small library in the grand scheme of things, though, so make sure it has some titles you’re interested in before signing up.
Graphics and Performance: Stadia Wins This One Hands Down
Final Verdict: The Jury is Out, but Luna Looks Like the Better Deal
Luna wins this fight from a value perspective, offering access to 70+ games for less than the Stadia Pro subscription that offers one or two free games per month. Asking people to pay full retail to buy games on Stadia is a bit of a tall order. The Netflix model used by Luna and Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass is much more attractive to anyone trying to game on a budget with a streaming service instead of investing in an expensive console or gaming PC.
