Console Wars

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.