Microsoft Xbox 360 Elite (2007)

price, usability, size, design, portability

reliability

79% of the reviews on Amazon.co.uk give this product a positive rating.

Elegant design looks stylish in most entertainment setups. Extensive digital media capabilities. Excellent games library. Robust online community. Powerful 3D graphics.

Like the original Xbox 360, the Elite generates a considerable amount of noise and heat. Console still lacks internal Wi-Fi. Power supply is way too bulky. No internal high-definition optical drive.

i'm glad to say that the elite's wireless controller feels very comfortable in the hand. its rubberized analog sticks are thoughtfully placed, and it has an impressive grip. the d-pad, however, feels stiff and offers minimal tactile feedback—a slight...

Excellent selection of games, including many 360-only exclusives; all games are in native high-definition; user-friendly Dashboard interface; supports wireless controllers and accessories; Xbox Live service offers online multiplayer (with matchmaking...

The Elite fails to correct most of the annoyances of the original 360 version: the noisy DVD drive and cooling fan; a gigantic, oversize power supply; no built-in wireless networking; only three USB ports; a substandard DVD player; online gaming...

While it's neither a must-have upgrade for existing 360 owners nor as feature-packed as the PS3, the Xbox 360 Elite's combination of top-notch gaming and digital media features make it the current game console of choice.

The price is something that sets this console aside from the competition and for most buyers, the sheer number of quality games available will make the real difference. The PS3 also offers an incredible gaming experience, but the majority of the games...