Xbox 360 console has the quality improved enough?
Hey all,
I'm a PC gamer who has resisted buying a current-gen console ... until now.
I can't get both, so I'm thinking of getting a 360 Elite. Is there any reason why I shouldn't? I'm having trouble finding anything recent out there saying the quality of the console is improved, fewer RRODs, etc., but I know MSFT has tried to address the quality issue over the last couple years. Surely they must've fixed the main problems by now.
Anyone care to comment?
(Yes, the PS3 is awesome, and while there are a couple I'd love to play, the games for it just don't excite me as much. Plus, XBLA sounds more active/interesting for Indie games than PSN, and I'm more intrigued about Project Natal than "The Wand" ... but I'm really not looking for this to turn into yet another Xbox vs. PS thread I'm really just curious what folks think about Xbox quality issues in 2010.)
I'm a PC gamer who has resisted buying a current-gen console ... until now.
I can't get both, so I'm thinking of getting a 360 Elite. Is there any reason why I shouldn't? I'm having trouble finding anything recent out there saying the quality of the console is improved, fewer RRODs, etc., but I know MSFT has tried to address the quality issue over the last couple years. Surely they must've fixed the main problems by now.
Anyone care to comment?
(Yes, the PS3 is awesome, and while there are a couple I'd love to play, the games for it just don't excite me as much. Plus, XBLA sounds more active/interesting for Indie games than PSN, and I'm more intrigued about Project Natal than "The Wand" ... but I'm really not looking for this to turn into yet another Xbox vs. PS thread I'm really just curious what folks think about Xbox quality issues in 2010.)
Replies
When i was working at UPS less than a year ago i was still getting about 50 returns a week for rrod, so its a mixed bag from my experience
For the most part, the recurring red ring reports (like me, on my 5th) are from the cheap bastards giving us refurbished parts when ours break.
Thanks, guys. What you are both saying gives me pause. I've read of people being on their fourth or fifth machine. And I ain't got time for that! Like MikeF, I'd only play for six to 10 hours a week, so I wouldn't be too hard on it, but I wouldn't want to be afraid of killing it by playing too much if I had a lot of free time!
I wonder if there's a way to tell at the store when the thing was manufactured. I guess you could ask to open it. And they could say no.
Anyone ever bought a refurbished one? Is there any conventional wisdom on those?
http://gaming.factoryoutletstore.com/?cid=12644&chid=1&gclid=CNTsgvy7_J8CFZhf2godUR_9kg
And anyone every bought from this Uncle Vic place? (Nice price: $230 for the Elite)
http://unclevic.com/a144/pd/186-2-0-5645-microsoft-b4j-00122-b4j00122-xbox-360-elite-b4j-00122?gclid=CMiGnYa9_J8CFUde2godPBYGlA
Update: I read several bad reviews about Xbox 360 refurbs from this Uncle Vic's place, but otherwise they seem good. Cheap Vizio TVs.
I hope this doesn't start a console battle, but even though you mentioned the PS3 not exciting you, I would really research the games if I were you. The two systems don't have many exclusives any more. Most of the top games come out for both systems, minus a handful of games. I have a PS3 also, and lately, when I go to get a game, I have to decide which system to buy for (just to show how often they are multi-console).
For me, the big bonus of the PS3 is still the blu-ray part of it.
Something to think about; if you play online a lot, the PS3's network is free (for now). The 360 charges you for live. It's not terribly bad for a fee, but free is hard to beat
I do like the 360's menu system better though (even though I dislike some of the recent changes).
Update (cross post): I normally like refurbs, but in the case of the 360, I would avoid them. Many of the RROD systems that were repaird, had the issue return. If any of these refurbs are those units, they could easily have the problem return. Maybe I'm wrong, but I would have issue trusting that.
A few tips:
- Don't buy any coolers that attach to the back. I have one that is a stand and has 2 controller slots in the side. It hasn't been in use in awhile though haha.
- Keep it out in the open, or as close to out in the open as you can.
- Keep the power brick as far away as possible, that thing gets HOT.
Make sure your power cable is plugged in tightly into the xbox itself as well as the brick, you get a scare when rrd comes up and its just a loose connection on the power box, I for one, think that pc gaming is always top, but there are some games which are just too good to wait for the pc version to come out a year or later. Fables for instance!
I think the xbox and ps3 are very close, in comparison so its generally games and community based around them which will be the best decider.
My opinion of the console dropped like a rock the second it started acting up.
http://www.squaretrade.com/pages/xbox360-ps3-wii-reliability-08-2009
@notman, you had a good point about the refurbs. It does make sense to stay away from them in the case of the 360.
You also got me thinking about the PS3 vs. 360 in terms of the better games. But I didn't mention that I have a small box full of old original Xbox games, and it looks like most of them would be compatible with the Elite version. That would be nice.
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/backwardcompatibilitygameslist.htm
On the other hand, the PS3 appears it isn't compatible with any PS2 games* (previously, I assumed it was). There are a ton I'd like to pick up from the bargain bin and finally play, so not having that ability is a mark against the PS3 in my opinon.
But back on the other hand, Xbox 360 doesn't have built in WiFi ... (do they really expect us to run a Cat 5 into our living rooms?) ... well, this is less important to me than backwards compatibility.
So, despite those telling charts that Jeremy posted (thanks), I think I'm confident MSFT doesn't want to write off another billion dollars for RRODs, so the newer ones are better built. So I'll probably go on with buying a new Elite.
And then promptly sign up for a GameFly account ... !
*This nonsensical blurb appears for each system: Due to the availability of an extensive line-up of PS3™ system titles, the 120GB PS3™ system is not backwards compatible with PlayStation®2 titles, but does maintain backwards compatibility for some original PlayStation® titles.
http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/Systems/Compare
In this day and age, just get both. But I do think its time for MS to release a new updated version of the 360. Better build quality, slot drive, silent fan and much slimmer with a bigger HDD thank you. (I'm still stuck on 20gb launch because I haven't had any issues).
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/hardware/x/xbox360wirelessnnetadapter/
I bought my Resident Evil 5 red edition last March and it was only replaced because lightni...err, it just MYSTERIOUSLY stopped working... 3 months after buying. Replacement took under two weeks through MS. Bless the online replacement service.
It sees about 16+ hours of use a day on average and has given me no problems beyond those two instances.
In my experience, people who have multiple RRoDs do not take care of their equipment: dusting, keeping it well ventilated and off the floor, never turning it off and all that.
I had more problems with PS1 than I have with my 360.
Limited and then no backwards compatibility immediately wrote the PS3 off for me and the price point at the time.
Support for online modes with original XBox games will be ending in April. According to MS, it is necessary to further support the current XBL model, and the reason the friends list is currently limited to 100.
Overall, it's been one of the best purchases I've ever made. Games, streaming movies from Netflix, using my music and online radio from my computer, all worth it.
Glad I picked the elite though.
I got my 360 early 2007 and it's never red-ringed, or had any problems whatsoever.
As for compatibility, yeah, the PS3 was hit and miss on compatibility. It depends on the version you own. I was a bit disappointed by that also, since I have PS2 games. I even bought an adapter (in the bargain bin), that would have let me plug in my old saved game cartridges.
That said, many of the older games are available in the store (I believe). I don't find myself missing any old games, so I usually don't care much about them.
I thought the 360 also had some older games that weren't compatible. Now the 360 is offering many games to buy online also.
If you go the 360 route, definitely get the elite version. The more HDD space you can get built in, the better. Like the overpriced wifi adapter, the HDD upgrades are ridiculously overpriced. My advice, would be to watch Best Buy for reward zone coupons. I THINK they are good for the consoles. You'll have to double check. Sign up for their reward zone if you aren't already. It's free, and they'll give you gift cards after you spend a certain amount there. The 360 purchase would probably earn you at least a $10 kickback.
Well, it would be nice to get both, but that's not going to happen (anytime soon). I don't even have an HD TV (it's 720p). But I agree on the need for MSFT to really update the system. Those disc trays are always just breakage waiting to happen. And I think I mentioned WiFi!
@Vig ... sheesh. $100? Fortunately, I've got a wireless network with a relay station in the living room that has an empty ethernet port.
@snemmy — I did read about the discontinued Live services for old games, but I figure that's bound to happen. It's one of those areas where PCs will always be better (so people can run their own servers). Thanks for the testimonial!
@Gilgamesh and Slum — Thanks. Nice to hear there are many folks who have had no (or almost no) problems.
Mines is a year old and it is by far the most used gaming platform I own, waaaaay more used than PSP, PS3, PS2, GC, DS and PC. Altogether.
Not only does it feel solid, but it also provides a very, very smooth user experience. You might want to get xboxlive gold to get the most out of it. PSN is free but it mediocre in terms of features compared to XBL. (just to name a few : new game demo screenshots, lengthy installers required for each download, and so on)
On the warning side : dont get a used 360, it's just not worth it. Buy the games used tho. You'll get all the major titles for under 15$.
Also you dont need more than 720p for gaming, on any current platform. Almost all games run 720p or even less (upscaled to 720p), except for some rare titles like GT and a very few others. Also the PS3 changes its own output res all the time (I can tell from my projector telling me when the signal is interrupted) whereas 360 is a lot more stable in that regard.
To wrap it up : whenever I boot my 360 I think :
'hey what am I gonna play today! Lets pop in a disc, maybe get a few demos, or watch some netflix!'.
When I turn on the PS3, I think:
'Oh hmm what can I do with this. Finally install the demos I downloaded but never took the time to extract? Watch a movie? nah it needs a special disc to activate netflix. So hmm why do I have that console again? Shall I sell it back? Oh right there is MGS4 on it, I guess Ill keep it then. Plus the background wallpaper is pretty I guess.'
The only downside I've found so far, is it takes a long time to get a game, especially if it's a newer game. Selling games goes very fast though
If you decide to use it though, let me know. I can earn referrals
unfortunately, elites no longer come with hdmi cables
But yeah, i heart my xbox. i use it as a media box, a stereo, a netflix machine, and gamez
Luckily he paid to repair it.
^ that's a typo right? You meant to say "he paid to replace it". Having a hard time seeing a shattered xbox being repaired.
Had it for some solid years though, it was a good machine. *puts flowers on grave*
I think I'm going to switch up for a ps3 for the next purchase though.
Tired of borrowing a friends whenever a sweet exclusive comes out.
Everyone I know has had the RROD at some point, but we all bought our consoles within a year of launch. I'm pretty sure they've sorted the problem out now, but yeah I think I'm getting the PS3 itch too... might have to start saving!
I hope you didnt buy one of those gold plated ones because those are a rip-off :P Because HDMI is digital, the quality of the cable doesnt matter at all, just buy the cheapest one!
Six months? What the hell do you do, smoke next to it and use it as a hammer?
My friend doesn't take care of his machines. He smokes like 40 a day around them. His 360 is limited edition BROWN now, and has so much shit stuck in the back it coughes every time he turns it on. He nevee cleans the room, never dusts, never does much of anything. He also moves it about while its on because its sat on the magazine pile. His consoles last about 1.5 years, then die on him. Hes been through 3 360's.
My consoles are cleaned, never knocked, never moved while on. I don't smoke, I'm clean, and I take care of a device that I spent a lot of money on. I've had zero issues and not a single disk scratched.
Funny that... Maybe its less to do with the shitty parts and more to do with the tolerance the device can handle of shitty owners...
I stopped buying games for my 360, because it crashes so often. PS3 for me!
I heard the latest systems (with the jasper board, which is the one I got) rarely RROD. But I always take precaution measures anyway, such as placing it in a well ventilated area (it heats a lot), not playing for over 3 hours straight (if I want to play more I turn it off for 15 minutes so it cools down) and I always remove the power cord from the wall when I'm not playing. Yeah I'm that paranoid but I want my things to last!
same here.
I have to lean away from the ps3, despite having been a major ps1 and ps2 player the no. of games online/offline is way smaller than xbox. They shouldn't have put in the blue ray tech which imo is a heavily overpriced fad, I'm sure this was a primary reason for the migration of playstation followers.
BUT...
There is one other thing J. Carmack was saying regarding memory;
xbox 512mb vs ps3 256mb
I can only assume that to keep the quality up ps3 games are smaller on average than xbox ones. Games companies porting to both consoles have to downplay for the ps3 version which obviously takes longer so xbox all the way imo.
Same as the CPU, its "better" than the 360 one, its just such a pain in the arse to work with you hardly ever see any real decent results, and 9 times out of 10 you get sloppy versions that run worse than the 360 one. Sony have never really got over that ego side of things. If they just had a normal cpu in there, the cnsole would be shining a LOT more.
What was it the Sony guy said? There was some dumb quote about they made the ps3 harder to code for so you would get better games or something stupid...
unless you try and pick them up at the same time as your xbox, thinking you should get the official cables. those are $50.
i was just pointing out that he shouldn't expect them to come in the box like they used to.
and... holy crap, hdmi is digital?! :poly124:
In the UK you cn pay £20-£30 and get the unoffical one that does the exact same thing... So, not sure I see the point behind that...?
holy crap. I'm lucky if I have enough time to play 2-3hrs of xbox per week.
Yes the 360 is awesome. PS3 is a different kind of awesome.
Chose based on the exclusives games library you like more
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_video_games_exclusive_to_a_seventh_generation_console
I didn't know you had to buy the 720p/1080p add on pack off of Live
"Gaming on wi-fi? You have only yourself to blame."
- free online play
- better menus imo
- less likely to die on you
- bluray player
as for exclusive games more of what i like is on ps3 such as Mgs4, God of war 3, uncharted 2. to me it seems that ps3 have a more variety of games other than shooters. not that i dont like shooters. btw i love cod
but to me 360s exclusives r mainly shooters : gears of war, halo, mass effect (more or less is a shooter) l4d. there are exclusives other than shooters like alan wake, ninja blade, forza... but to me its just seems not enough variety.
Hard dwive.
I think M$ put that under manufactures 3 year now. My xbox did that and I had to pay for the repair, 2 months later they said they would cover it and I got a refund.
Btw every friend I know, has gone at least through 1 xbox. Although it's been over a year now and now problems so far.
Oh, awesome. Their web-based returns says I'll have to pay, hopefully I'll get a refund as well! Thanks for the heads-up.
I think this is my third or fourth 360. But my first RRoD
- Free online
- Upgradeable HDD (any laptop HDD will do, I am rocking 180GB in mine for $60).
- Better controller
- And region free out the box
- Plays all PS1 games :P
@ odium - 360 does 720p/1080p out the box with the proper connection (VGA/HDMI)360 pad > flimsy ass ds3
360 is region free, region lock is down to the publisher
i'll give you the other three though
and pankake, why do you think heavy rain is better than alan wake? it's not even a game