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PS3 vs Xbox 360? Which is better and why? Choose a side!

Added 09:11pm Feb 12, 2012 by Matt the Gamer

PlayStation 3, Xbox 360

I own both consoles and have seen this topic come up repeatedly. Which in your opinion is better and why?

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Well... i have studied greatly into both of them...and in the end, it is all truely all up to you. I personally prefer the Ps3

There are a couple good things about the 360. First of all, a 360 uses a normal, computer style hardware archetechture. Developers are used to this method, so it is easier to adapt to the 360 in terms of making games. The 360 also has a better Graphics Processing Unit (equivalent to an Nvidia Geforce 7900GT), and twice the Video Memory (512mb VRAM). In theory, that should ammount to better graphics in a game. The PC-similar archetechture means that when the developers go multiplatform (meaning, port their PC game into the Consoles), the 360 generally gets the better graphics, but the framerates are usually not as smooth, and would get a few more glitches (dev's fault, but the usual case). These are pretty much unnoticable side by side. Also, the Xbox live has a much more reliable multiplayer network in their platform. It is actually more reliable than PSN

But on the PS3's defence, however, the PSN is not bad at all. It may not be as good as the 360's but it is not faulty. Also, IT IS 100% FREE. That is my main reason for choosing the PS3 over the 360. I hate the prospect of having to pay monthly for the features of a device that i fully own. It gives me a better sence of ownership over my PS3 than my 360.

There are a couple other things too. The PS3 has way better exclusives (proven) on its console, in contrast to the 360. There are many who cant live w/o Halo Reach or Gears of War 3, but that is about all that the 360 has to offer as an exclusive. Yes, there are a couple others (like allan wake, and forza), but the 360 is lacking in the exclusives area. PS3, on the other hand, has countell amazing exclusives for anyone, regardless of interest.

On the specs side, remember how i said "in theory" the 360 "should" have better graphics? Well, THE PS3 HAS BETTER GRAPHICS CAPABILLITIES THAN THE 360. The PS3 has 2 different processors that are simultaniously processing its graphics. Its primary graphics processing unit is called "The Reality Synthesiser (RSX)", and is approximately equivalent to an Nvidia Geforce 7800GT. That GPU focuses completely on graphics, and is less powerful than the 360's ONLY GPU. The thing is, the PS3 has a new-technology CPU processor called the CELL processor. Sony spent MILLIONS on factories developing next-gen CELL processors, and it paid off. Their CELL CPU greatly outperforms the 360's CPU. also, unlike the 360, their CELL actually aids the RSX in graphics processing. since the CELL can draw from the XDR system DRAM, it makes the Graphics a lot more smoother, more stable, and more crisp. The problem with direct ports is that the port will take full advantage of the 360's graphics and not the PS3's. This is why most people blame the 360 for holding the PS3 back. When you take full advantage of BOTH of PS3's processors, the graphics capacity for the PS3 outperforms the 360s. while no game has yet explored the full capacities of the PS3, Uncharted 3 comes the closest, and is a good example of taking advantage of both processors on the PS3 for smoother graphics.

Also, the PS3 OWNS the 360 tech wise. The PS3 utilizes a newer format of HDMI, which gives the PS3 an increased performance in a number of areas, such as graphics quality, smoother framerated, and 3D. The PS3 also supports dual layered Blu-Ray, which supports up to 50 GB of Data per disk. That is INSANE, when comparing it to the DVDs that the 360 uses. The PS2 used DVDs! This gives devs a lot more space to work on the ps3.

Overall, I prefer the PS3 because of free online, more and better exclusives, and newer and better overall tech. none of this is gonna make a fanboy ditch his favorite console. The tech specs isnt really gonna make a casual gamer pick the PS3 over the 360 either. I just gave you my opinion on the basis of a thorough analysis. In the end, it is all on your judgement.

11:09pm Feb 15, 2012 Comment (3)
  • I have to totally agree. I've seen some of the Cell-shading that DW3:Gundam put out. It makes games look about 2 times better. It would definitely explain why the PS3 has a sharper overall image, something that can be pretty noticeable on an HDTV.

    I've also kind of wondered about EXACTLY how worth it a built in DVD or Blu-Ray player is to users. I suppose it all depends on the owner. For me, I rarely get Blu-Ray OR DVDs I usually just jump on Netflix (Which fortunately is on both consoles) pretty much making the player sort of just a convenience, rather than a must have! But i'm sure there are people out there who get a bunch of movies on disc, so the movie player's worth all depends on the person right? - Kyrios Feb 16th, 2012 00:36
  • Nice analysis. A few points though:

    The 360 also has HDMI capability.

    The Blu-Ray discs do have the advantage of storage capacity but the drive is also really slow. That's why the PS3 has some mandatory installs. Even then, the games with said installs perform about the same as the game being read off disc from the 360.

    I agree with you about the free online. I was an XBL subscriber for some time. I ended up cancelling because it didn't make sense to pay the yearly fee with how much I actually played online.

    I agree that the PS3 has several advantages, like free online, you never needed to buy a wireless add-on and no RROD. As a gamer, games are the most important consideration for me. In that department, the 360 has more of what I'm looking for. As for the RROD debacle, I think MS handled that nicely by extending the warranty to 3 years. - captain obvious Feb 15th, 2012 23:47
  • That was simply brilliant. Thank your your analysis, now please start a blog :) - Matt the Gamer Feb 15th, 2012 23:13

Other Answers (15)

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    Very tough question...but I am going to side with the Xbox 360 over PS3. I own both systems and I love them both very much, but I would say its Xbox live that makes me prefer Microsofts console.  Its $50 a year but its a small price to pay for a premium service that gives players exclusive content, party chat, some great apps and better online play. I just find it so much easier to jump into an Xbox game with your friends than into matches for PS3. From 2006 - 2008 it was a pretty easy hands down as Xbox had the better exclusives and its 3rd party software was better than PS3 ports. From a games standpoint I would have to say PS3 wins from 2009 -2011. Sony has brought out some killer software in that time...games like Little Big Planet, God of War 3, Modnation Racers, Killzone 3, Uncharted 2 & 3, Heavy Rain, Infamous 2, etc.

    Xbox cannot survive on Halo and Gears of War alone and since the Kinect was announced it seems like there have been very few exclusives. If you are a gamer like me that owns both then you are the ultimate winner and will have years of enjoyment for years to come.

    Overall I find myself playing the 360  more than my PS3 because I have developed a robust online friendship/community that is second to none. Xbox not only has great games but its an experience in itself and the Kinect just makes the whole dashboard, fun, interactive and great for the whole family.

    12:29am Feb 24, 2012 Comment (1)
    • Almost forgot, but one reason I also prefer 360 more is the controller. I love the ps3 build too, but for shooters the 360 controller just has a more comfortable feel, the concave thumsticks are easier to hold after extended periods of time and the triggers feel better for aiming. Thats just my opinion, but a vailid one all the same. - IbenWackenov Feb 24th, 2012 00:32
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    I personally prefer the PS3. 

    To be honest theres only two big diference. One is the controller (xbox controller's triggers are perfect for fps games)

    Which brings me to number 2: I hate to use the word exclusive, but honestly the ps3 and the 360's line up of games are very different.

    While both consoles get 75% of the same games, Each console seems to be geared towards a different audience. Just like the wii is trying to apeal to children and casual gamers, the xbox is apealing to the call of duty and halo addicts of the westren world, while the ps3 tends to localize more rpg and adventure games.

    The difference is minimal and really should not be fought over which is better by fanboys trying to choose a side, Especially today where each console offers motion controls and vertually the same style of interface. It comes down to which type of games you prefer. And for me, thats rpgs/adventure games.

    09:13am Feb 23, 2012 Comment (1)
    • I think your spot on with the demographics analysis. Thanks for input - Matt the Gamer Feb 23rd, 2012 09:47
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    Xbox 360. but it's true about your own opinion because I've had great gaming memories on my 360 Slim..and the same goes for other platforms

    04:42am Feb 17, 2012 Comment (0)
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    I own a 360, for the fun, great on-line with dedicated servers and must had exclusive and the controller is perfect for FPS's and Third person/Action-Adventure and the graphics are pretty amazing on it to.

    11:33pm Feb 15, 2012 Comment (0)
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    ps3 all the way bitches i dont know why i just love it xbox can suck my dick :P 

    09:30pm Feb 14, 2012 Comment (0)
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    PS3! All the way. Bill Gates has enough money as it is too be charging customers for online services on a gaming system. PS3 graphics are sharper, although I agree some games are hard to get enough to play. I'll take my chances with a company like Sony that cares more about it's customers then the almighty dollar.

    07:05pm Feb 14, 2012 Comment (3)
    • Sony loves your money too. Free multiplayer is a marketing strategy to get you to buy more extras like DLC. We pay for multiplayer so that Microsoft doesn't foolishly allow Xbox Live to get crashed by hackers....sound familiar? =P - Kyrios Feb 14th, 2012 21:43
    • Ok, wanna talk about failures, how about Vista... Biggest FAILURE put out there. On it's Premier it crashed and only about two years later did they have to put out another operating system too Compete with Macintosh, another fan favorite of mine. And it is on;y until a year or two ago, to call into Mircrosoft you had to give a Credit Card before anyone would talk to you about a problem. Yeah, thumbs up there, pal. - BeastOfBayview Feb 14th, 2012 23:47
    • In other words, if Microsoft can't hold par in the computer world, something they aways dominated, I doubt I will put my trust in them in a gaming system, something they are relatively new at. - BeastOfBayview Feb 14th, 2012 23:55
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    You really can't say that either of the two is better than the other. Simply because they have their own pros and cons in different categories. But if forced to choose a side, I would go with the 360 because I own one and love it. 

    As Stephen said in his comment, It really does depend on what sort of game genres you like. Xbox is widely known for it's FPS and TPS such as Halo, and Gears of War. On the flip-side. PS3 is widely known for it's breathtaking RPGs such as Final Fantasy, and Kingdom Hearts. However, Square Enix did sign a contract giving Microsoft rights to Final Fantasy for Xbox...so only time will tell how things play out.

    As far as comfort and user-friendliness go, I find that the Xbox generally has a nicer feel compared to Playstation. PS3 does have a very large dashboard, and whenever I use my friend's I feel somewhat lost at times. Xbox's however, is pretty simple & to the point. Another thing I noticed was that Xbox makes updates a necessity, wheras with PS3 you can sort of put off updating until later. As far as controllers go, I tend to press the wrong button on the PS3 due to the R & L buttons being so similiar feeling. The Xbox uses triggers and buttons, which makes the difference obvious to the touch. PS3 controllers have the wonderful advantage of not needing batteries, but I've often seen that it becomes problematic when multiple controllers require charging.

    When it comes to online play, it is true that Xbox live can get a bit pricey at times. But what's $50 for a year long gold membership, along with good quality matchmaking? True with PS3 it leaves more money for DLC, but what happens when your marketplace goes down because somebody managed to hack the system? Suddenly, I don't feel so bad about paying money for online play. =P

    Graphics-wise, the PS3 looks gorgeous when it's played on an HDTV. The system looks so much more smooth in comparison to the Xbox's more rough exterior. If you want crisp graphics, and a system with a lot of interraction options....get your hands on a PS3. If you want a system that's user-friendly, and is made for online features....look no further than Xbox.

    07:55am Feb 14, 2012 Comment (5)
    • Excellent points. I wonder if the PS3 has been "held back" from truly unleashing it's potential since titles have to be made for both 360 and PS3 to maximize revenue. - Matt the Gamer Feb 14th, 2012 08:02
    • I don't think Sony is holding back on the PS3's potential, but rather they are broadening their product areas. While Microsoft has really started getting to work on utilizing the "Kinect" movement technology, Sony has moved in a different direction and gone into developing handheld gaming systems such as the new Playstation Vita that has recently come out. - Kyrios Feb 14th, 2012 08:13
    • While we are currently seeing all the really cool new devices that Playstation has come up with, Xbox has remained somewhat reserved. The only info you can get on the new "Xbox 720" are in rumors. You can find some leaked videos of a Microsoft CEO using the new integrated touch technology with the "720's" dashboard if you look around on the internet. - Kyrios Feb 14th, 2012 08:18
    • Kyrios, something tells me you may have something to do with Microsoft seeing you are the only one commenting on petty achievement Microsoft has come up with to compete with PS3 and even the Wii. And Mac will always be better. - BeastOfBayview Feb 14th, 2012 23:52
    • Well as they say: "Hater's gonna hate." You did read the part where I complimented PS3 and said it had "Gorgeous graphics" and, " The wonderful advantage of not needing batteries!" right?.....Where do you think Xbox and PS got their movement technology from? The Wii of course! I think you need to chill out and think a little. I won't get into an argument with a PS3 loyalist. - Kyrios Feb 15th, 2012 06:34
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    I got ps3, xbox 360, wii, psp slim soon to be vita, ds 3d, macbook pro 17" and a gaming tower running radeon hd 6990 im like super nerd that runs a recording studio so super cool nerd dont have time to play games just need to own everything new. and never play them.

     

    But ps3 has better graphics and is sharper but online is a lonely world 90% of the time im in and out of lobbys trying to get one full of people with mic's its not about online with out it. gets boring without the constant abuse of people.

     

    Xbox - hate halo worst game ever but the machine i fire up the most would be the xbox, every one online has a mic the lobbys are always full of communication to acheive teamwork. and abuse of course but what would online be with out it oh yeah it would be online on a ps3 

    11:26pm Feb 13, 2012 Comment (1)
    • Good analysis. I've noticed more people on Xbox use the headset as well. Probably because it's more of a clan based console for team games such as Halo and Gears of War...or COD just doesn't require the strategy many thought it would. - Matt the Gamer Feb 13th, 2012 23:45
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    I am a xbox 360 fan. I do like the controller of the ps3, but ps3 doesn't have halo.. Shame...

    10:24pm Feb 13, 2012 Comment (0)
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    Personally I prefer the ps3, but it's for a bit of an awkward and heavily opinionated reason. The controller. The xbox controller is still rather large and a bit unweildy for me, while the ps3's controller fits better in my hands and feels much more comfortable. Again though, its mostly an opinion thing, and personally one that i think comes down to which platform exclusive titles you like better.

    07:19pm Feb 13, 2012 Comment (0)
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    I never like the ps2 too much when xbox around, but the tables have turned thats for sure. Now I prefer the PS3 over the xbox360....who wants to pay monthly online gaming fees when it should be free? I do favor the xbox controllers though.

    07:16pm Feb 13, 2012 Comment (0)
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    I personally prefer the XBox 360.  For one thing, I prefer the controller.  Most of the games that I'm interested in on PS3 are also available for the 360.  In terms of exclusives, I am a fan of the Halo franchise, so it's the logical choice for me.

    05:39pm Feb 13, 2012 Comment (0)
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    It really depends on what you want to do. Online play, Xbox 360 hands down. Live is the best line service I've ever seen. You could argue that the PS3's online is free, but you get what you pay for. In the aesthetic department, I'll give it the slim redesign to the PS3 since it no longer looks like a George Foreman grill. PS3 is technically better in the component side, but unless you're really looking for it you can't see the difference in eithers game play so for me it's a tie. Now, for genres. RPGs, the PS3. FPS, the 360. Racing, the 360 for Forza (another debate. Forza vs Gran Turismo, but that's something else).

     

    Category wise, the 360 wins. For me, the PS3 wins because I'm an RPG nut.

    03:33am Feb 13, 2012 Comment (0)
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    Do I have to chose a side? Personal preference is definitely the XBox 360, I pre-ordered the LE Star Wars console and I can't wait. On a technical breakdown, the PS3's CPU performs better while the 360's GPU performs better and the 360 has better backwards compatibility than the PS3 does these days. Not to mention the Kinect is super fun! So even if the PS3 comes out looking better on the technical side, for playability and total fun factor the 360 wins it! ;)

    01:19am Feb 13, 2012 Comment (1)
    • Yup, I think that's been the general feeling so far. PS3 outperforms but for fun factor 360 might have won over the hearts and minds of gamers. - Matt the Gamer Feb 15th, 2012 23:14
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    PS3 is top dog. The graphics are more crisp as well as gameplay. The only reason people get the Xbox 360 is for Halo, so if you don't like that franchise there is zero point to getting anything other than the PS3. High end quality Blu Ray player as well.

    09:36pm Feb 12, 2012 Comment (1)
    • hm.. you think it's just for halo? Gears of war is a huge game that puts the ps3 to shame! sure the ps3 may have higher graphics, but the difference is that great.. i've had a ps3, and wii, and i still own my 360! i gave the ps3 away and sold the wii! well the ps3 was good, not saying anything bad about it! i liked it but i had the 360 first and already had lots of games to on it and so forth C_C still though glad i got the 360 instead, gears is awesome~ - xXDarthJuJuXx Feb 13th, 2012 21:12