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Value:
But which system gives you the best value?
Xbox 360: The 360 starts at $299 for the core and $399 for the premium package. Today looking at Intel Dual Core processors at TigerDirect, I noticed they can cost as much as $1000. So you are getting an extreme gaming machine with the latest in graphics technology for 300 or 400 dollars. Not only that but you get a great media console. For 200 more you can optionally get an HD-DVD Drive, though most won’t have the need or can wait until the format wars have been decided before pushing forward in that area. Score: 5
PlayStation3 For the best overall value I would have awarded it to the PS3, however it’s the best value for a gaming machine. At $499 for the base edition and $599 for top model it is a bit pricy. Most of that comes from Sony’s choice of including Blu-ray as standard in the console, which is a questionable way of pushing their format in the format wars. Score: 5
Wii: The cheapest console is surprisingly the worst value. For starters there is no DVD Playback which is crazy. At $250, you could easily spend $50 for a more powerfully console with advanced media functionality. At $250 you could get a bargain desktop PC (without monitor as the Wii does not include a monitor) which would be more powerful than the Wii. Score: 1
Verdict:
The Wii received a total of 21 points. The PlayStation3 received a total of 29, and the Xbox 360 received a total of 38. The Xbox 360 is the clear winner as being the ultimate console and best value. With the 360 you got great games, great graphics, great design, and a great media experience. The Xbox 360 is expandable, has an awesome online network and is priced reasonably well.
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