The (seemingly) age-old debate between gamers is whether it is better to own a PlayStation 3 or an Xbox 360. Each has its own unique set of pros and cons, but after careful observation, the PlayStation 3 emerges as the clear favorite.
Although more expensive than the 360, the PS3 doesn’t charge users for online play, an increasingly important aspect of video games. Xbox Live, on the other hand, costs its users a monthly fee that will in time cause it to cost more than the PS3.
Many will argue, however, that the Xbox Live community is stronger than that of the PS3’s. While Live may receive content patches sooner than PlayStationNetwork (PSN), they both will eventually receive the same material. Also, there is no difference in the competitive level on either. Both online networks will have the same combination of good and bad players.
Even if online play is not of any interest to you, the PS3 still distinguishes itself offline. While both systems have their fair share of exclusive titles (games only available on one platform), the PS3 has much more computing power than the 360, allowing its exclusive titles to be much more detailed, polished productions. For this reason many of the most critically acclaimed studios are turning to the PS3 when looking to create a great new game.
Arguably the most important reason for purchasing the PS3 instead of the 360 is its multimedia capabilities. Both systems can stream Netflix, but PS3 users on average experience a smoother connection and clearer picture. The PS3 is also a Bluray player, while the 360 can only play regular DVDs.
At the end of the day, however, the decision between whether to buy a PlayStation 3 or an Xbox 360 should come down to which better fits you. If everyone you know plays Call of Duty on Xbox Live, it makes no sense to buy a PlayStation 3. The same goes for if everyone you know owns a PS3. But all other things equal, the best decision is to go with the PlayStation 3.