Sony's 60GB Playstation 3 VS. Microsoft's Xbox 360 Elite

With the recent release of the Xbox 360 Elite and the production of the 20GB Playstation 3 ending, gamers wanting the latest and greatest in next generation will have to make a tough decision between the Xbox 360 Elite (MSRP $479.99) and the 60GB Playstation 3 (MSRP $599.99). In this article, we will compare them side by side on graphics, multimedia functions, online service, durability, backward compatibility and, most importantly, games.

Graphics

Since the Playstation 3 and Xbox 360 are pretty much equal in terms of raw specs, the ability to bring out the full graphical potential will depend from game to game. As of right now, the Xbox 360 has the edge in the graphics department because it's been out a full year earlier and it's easier to develop for. As a result, most multiplatform games will look better on the Xbox 360. The Playstation 3 does have some incredible looking exclusive games but they won't be released until the fall of this year. One important note is that Microsoft's Xbox 360 Elite comes with a component and HDMI cable while the 60GB Playstation 3 doesn't.

Multimedia Functions

Sony's Playstation 3 easily wins in this category. The Playstation 3 has a pre-installed high definition player called Blu-Ray. You will have to buy the HD-DVD add-on (MSRP $199.99) to play a high definition movie for the Xbox 360. The 60GB Playstation 3 also have a built-in flash memory card reader for music, movies and pictures. Additionally, you can browse the Internet on the Playstation 3 whereas you couldn't on the Xbox 360. The only advantage the Xbox 360 Elite has is that its 120GB hard drive doubles the 60GB Playstation 3 storage capacity. In the end, however, for six hundred dollars, Sony's Playstation 3 gives a lot of bang for your buck.

Online Service