Microsoft Xbox 360 (20GB) by CNET
- Reviewed on: 11/19/2007
- Released on: 11/22/2005
Microsoft's Xbox 360 was the first "next-generation" game console to hit the market in November 2005, beating the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 by a full year. Like its peers, the 360 initially suffered from a somewhat anemic game lineup and some annoying hardware and software limitations. Since its launch, however, the Xbox team has implemented an assortment of incremental improvements, even going so far as to release an updated version of the console. The result, as of fall 2007, is the best version of the Xbox 360 to date. The current model features the HDMI output with 1080p video support that was missing on the original version, as well as a host of other tweaks and improvements to the system's underlying software. Best of all, the 360 now boasts the largest--and many would argue, the best--game lineup. In addition to great games such as Assassin's Creed and Call of Duty 4, the 360 is the only console where you can play such must-have exclusive titles as Halo 3, BioShock, Gears of War, and Mass Effect. Add to that a host of impressive digital media features, including an add-on HD DVD movie player and a decent online selection of downloadable pay-per-view HD movies and TV shows.
The console's real Achilles' heel has been its unacceptably poor reliability: A vast number of Xbox 360 consoles have suffered the dreaded "red ring of death" error, a fatal glitch that renders them unusable. It's been a huge frustration for even the most forgiving 360 owner. That said, Microsoft has made amends by offering a three-year limited warranty, guaranteeing replacement of those faulty consoles. Anecdotal evidence continues to suggest that the problem afflicts mostly older consoles. In other words, those manufactured in 2007 or later--the ones equipped with HDMI ports--should be much more stable than their predecessors.
In addition to the (we hope) improved reliability, we wish the upgraded version of the console had included a few more substantive fixes as well--a smaller power supply, a quieter disc drive, and built-in Wi-Fi. Nevertheless, the addition of HDMI, a best-in-class game library, and the cheapest price to date ($50 lower than the original console) make the Xbox 360 an offer that few gamers will be able to refuse.
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Microsoft XBOX 360 Premium Edition Game Console System
What's Included in this package
Starting @ $90
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Xbox 360 models compared
The 20GB version (reviewed here--often called the "Xbox 360 Pro" or "Xbox 360 Premium") will suffice for most users, while those who wish to maximize the console's video and gaming prowess will want to invest an extra $100 in the 120GB Xbox 360 Elite. (The Xbox 360 Arcade should be avoided--you'll just end up having to buy the add-on hard drive later anyway, thus eliminating the apparent savings.)
| Model | Xbox 360 Arcade* | Xbox 360 20GB^ | Xbox 360 Elite 120GB |
| MSRP | $280 | $350 | $450 |
| Hard disk size | n/a (includes 256MB memory card) | 20GB | 120GB |
| Included accessories | One wireless controller, composite AV cable | One wireless controller, headset, Ethernet cable, component/composite AV cable | One wireless controller, headset, Ethernet cable, component/composite AV cable, HDMI cable |
| Color | White | White | Black |
| Unique bundled items | Currently ships with five Xbox Live Arcade titles. | Currently ships with Forza Motorsport 2 and Marvel Ultimate Alliance. | Currently ships with Forza Motorsport 2 and Marvel Ultimate Alliance. |
| Notes | Can't download online content or play original Xbox games without the addition of an add-on hard drive accessory (sold separately). | Best price/feature mix for most users; avoid older version that lacks HDMI port. | Larger hard drive is ideal for heavy downloaders of games and video. |
*Replaces the Xbox 360 Core System, which has since been discontinued
^The Halo 3 Limited Edition Xbox 360 features identical hardware, a Halo-themed camouflage paint job, and no bundled games.
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