Microsoft Xbox 360 Elite - Expert Reviews

Review summary: The Xbox 360 holds a significant place in the hearts and minds of UK cinephiles. Pre-dating the launch of SkyHD, it was the first mass market hi-def entertainment system to hit the streets.

Pros: Excellent AV performance, Improved value for money

Cons: Extra HD DVD drive isn't black, Average CD playback

Verdict: The best Xbox option for newbies. Its media extender capabilities are simply awesome

Review summary: enhanced xbox 360 console, but not enhanced enough

Verdict: A super games console, but a surprisingly cautious update of the original Xbox 360 technology.

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

Cons: 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.

Verdict: Even though the Xbox 360 Elite won't sway current owners to upgrade, its impressive feature set and strong online community make it the high-powered console to own.

Review summary: Evolution not revolution is the name of the Xbox Elite's game with an HDMI-out and bigger hard-drive the bait for anyone who managed to resist the original's charms

Pros: Better value than Premium. Big hard drive. New HDMI connection. Smart paint job

Cons: Premium is getting an HDMI connection too. Doesn't include HD-DVD drive

Review summary: HDMI and storage boost for the popular console

Pros: 120GB hard drive; HDMI; sleek black chassis

Cons: Still just as noisy; no built-in Wifi