Playstation vs XBOX – Design & External features, who’s best?!

Our last post explored the differences between the Dualshock and XBOX controllers and the console wars continue. LP from TechnoBuffalo gives us a thorough breakdown of Playstation and XBOX hardware as we discover which one of these gaming platforms offers more value, pound for pound. The problem of consumer choice is compounded by both manufacturers offering multiple product specifications or product SKUs, (Stock Keeping Units). This makes the job of comparison more difficult because the unique system configurations of the Playstation console are not mirrored identically by Microsoft’s XBOX.

Both platforms have their issues. One of the dilemmas that been faced by PS3 gamers is whether or not pay extra for backwards compatibility with PS2 games. The 20Gb model was £120 cheaper than the 60Gb version, but with no backwards compatibility. On the other side of the divide, XBOX gamers were disappointed a few years back when they bought a new console, only to find that a HDMI enable version was launched just weeks later.

So who has benefited from the multiple SKU strategy – manufacturer or gamer? We all understand the importance of product innovation and development and what it means to have choice, but with my cynical hat on, I’d have to say that the manufacturers know they are going to shift more units if they faze the release dates of their new functionality. On the flip side, continued innovation means that processors are becoming more powerful whilst shrinking in size, power consumption, heat dissipation and noise!

So who’s going to win this round of the console wars? According to LP its the PS3 hands down. Sleek design and multiple input output features give the PS3 the edge. The bulky power supply of the XBOX doesn’t help it’s cause either. Check out the video and make your own mind up!