Joystiq Holidaze: explaining the Xbox 360 SKUs
by Ross Miller 
{ Nov 22nd 2007 at 8:01AM }
So it's with this in mind that we present you this handy guide for discerning the difference between the various Xbox 360 versions (aka SKUs) out there. Please note that the red and green coloring is not only festive decor for the holiday season but also a subjective highlight of what each version excels in (or subsequently lacks).
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| Elite | Halo Edition | Pro | Arcade | Core | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware | |||||
| Price | $449.99 | $399.99 | $349.99 | $279.99 | $199.99* |
| Storage | 120GB HDD | 20GB HDD | 20GB HDD | 256MB memory card |
none |
| Color | Black | Green/Orange | White | White | White |
| HDMI port | Yes | Yes | Certain models** | Yes | Certain models** |
| Bundled Accessories | |||||
| Ethernet cable | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Headset | Wired | Wired | Wired | No | No |
| Play & Charge Kit |
No | Yes | No | No | No |
| Video cables | HDMI 1.2, Component, Composite |
Component, Composite |
Component, Composite |
Composite | Composite |
| Controller | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless | Wired |
| Other | |||||
| Xbox Live | Silver, 1 Month Gold |
Silver, 1 Month Gold |
Silver, 1 Month Gold |
Silver, 1 Month Gold |
Silver |
| Backwards Compatibility |
Yes | Yes | Yes | No*** | No*** |
Notes:
* The Core model has been discontinued. The $199.99 price tag is based on the GameStop refurbished price.
** See explanation below
*** Hard Drive required
And just in case you still have questions, we've gone ahead and written up a F.A.Q. after the break.
I've got to ask some rhetorical questions, can you help me out?
Of course, just like this, in fact.
Awesome! Thanks!
No problem.
Zephyr, Falcon, Jasper ... Can you explain all these different chipsets? Zephyr is the name giving to the first upgrade of the Xbox 360's motherboard, which started showing up in retail consoles July 2007, and sported an HDMI 1.2 port and an improved heatsink.
The Falcon chipset will sport a smaller, 65nm CPU -- theoretically, this means cooler temperatures and less energy usage. These chips are expected to find their way into consoles by the end of this year. The rumored Jasper chipset isn't expected until August 2008 and will reportedly feature a smaller, 65nm GPU.
Except for checking for an HDMI port (included in all Zephyr and later chipsets), there is no easy way to tell which chipset you have.
Why not?
Because Microsoft isn't interested in telling you, that's why.
Okay, fine, but how do I tell if my Xbox 360 console has an HDMI port?
All Elite, Halo Edition, and Arcade models come equipped with HDMI port because they were manufactured starting after Zephyr was introduced. The Pro and Core models all have HDMI if they were produced after July 2007, and the best and only way to tell is by looking at the box (see the picture to the right).
What if I'm buying my Xbox 360 used and I can't check the box?
Then you can look at the console itself. An HDMI port should be found under the giant proprietary A/V. Use the picture below for reference.
Why isn't the Core or Arcade model backwards compatible?
A hard drive is required for backwards compatibility, both for holding the emulation software and to act as a storage space for original Xbox games to use (remember, the original Xbox had a hard drive). It's important to remember that if you buy an Arcade or Core SKU and want to be backwards compatible (or just store more than 256 MB), all you need to do is buy an HDD from Microsoft.
Can I beat you in Halo 3?
Probably, but you'll have to catch us first!
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
Laggy @ Nov 22nd 2007 8:19AM
I feel somewhat cheated that my 360 has no HDMI port. I think us people who bought it before the update should be reimbursed. Maybe a free year of live? sounds good.
nealbailey @ Nov 22nd 2007 10:03AM
Oh please, get real. So you purchased a product and now you deserve free upgrades for life? So no manufacturer can ever upgrade a product in it's lifecycle without re-reimbursing all its customers?
mattclarkie @ Nov 23rd 2007 12:50PM
I think the reason for the complaint, which I agree with, is that MS was trying to save money by not including the HDMI until after they had reduced initial manufacturering costs.
They should have been straight and admitted that they were introducting such a major upgrade to the console so soon after launch. It was clearly decided upon at the design stage.
HDMI is, a major upgrade that can't be replicated with a peripheral such as an IR receiver can, remember many TVs can't get 1080p over Component, and for HD-DVD it isn't possible even if you have a TV that can. who wants to be stuck with 720p on their 1080p TV especially for HD-DVD.
Without early adopters MS wouldn't be in the position that is currently is with the Gaming Division, finally making profit (although overall a loss), and I think we deserve a thankyou, maybe a free game or some free MS points as not only are the consoles lacking a major feature, but fatally flawed in respect to design, which is still not fully addressed.
The HDMI port isn't on a new product, it is still the same 360, so the argument that companies bring out new products all the time isn't a strong one.
Gag Halfrunt @ Nov 24th 2007 1:34AM
Riiiiiight. So the fact that they're repairing all your broken consoles for FREE doesn't count as a consideration to early adopters? I suppose a billion dollars of CHARITY isn't enough to satisfy, you want a trillion.
I suppose you believe Apple should hand out a new iPod to all the First-Gen iPod purchasers too, since they didn't get a color screen, or play videos, or have 80 gigs of storage space? In fact, I bought a Nano 1st gen. By your logic, I deserve a new 3rd gen Nano because the screen is bigger with better resolution and it plays video. MOAR FREE STUFF NOWZ!
Products improve over their lifecycle. You purchased the product as-is, with no expectation of core hardware improvements. Now you're lamenting your purchase because there's a new option out? Do what intelligent CAR buyers do. Wait until the upgrade becomes compelling, then trade your model in for money down on a new model. And quit whining on the forums because they changed the body style a year after you purchased it. Jerk.
Barlow @ Nov 27th 2007 12:09AM
i need reimbursed cause i ba=ought a elite for the hdmi then a cpl weeks later the premium has hdmi and a falcon chipset i was robbed WTF!!!!
E.J. @ Nov 22nd 2007 8:21AM
Dear Sony and MS:
Single SKUs are the way to go. More than that will confuse your customers, fracture your install base, be a pain for devs supporting you, and piss off anyone in general.
Don't give me the crap of the lower/less successful SKU of being successful. Uninformed and confused buyers will just hate you in the long run for providing "choice" and will destroy brand loyalty for making them spend on proprietary crap (meaning both BluRay and 360's HDD).
Aaaaargh! E.J. smash! (Unfortunately, I don't own purple pants)
Jojo @ Nov 22nd 2007 9:18AM
I was just remembering the good ol' days when there was a PS2, Xbox and Gamecube. Simple and straight to the point, pick your poison.
Geist @ Nov 22nd 2007 9:24AM
Back in my day, we had one SKU per system, and we were glad to have it! We also walked to school in the snow, uphill both ways!
AirIntake @ Nov 22nd 2007 9:49AM
Am I the only one that seems to remember that even the bloody NES had multiple 'sku' (which we fucking called 'bundles' back then)?
The NES had:
The Control Deck (2 controllers, Super Mario)
The Deluxe Set (controller, ROB, Zapper, Duck Hunt)
The Action Set (2 controllers, Super Mario & Duck Hunt)
The Power Set (2 controllers, Power Pad, zapper, Super Mario & Duck Hunt & World Track Meet)
The Sports Bundle (NES Satellite, 4 controllers, Super Spike V-Ball & Nintendo World Cup)
The Challenge Set (2 controllers, Super Mario 3)
The Basic Set (2 controllers)
The NES 2
So anybody that thinks multiple 'sku's are a new thing really doesn't know what they're talking about.
n2 @ Nov 22nd 2007 10:10AM
I disagree. I like choice. One size doesn't necessarily fit all.
I'm glad Microsoft offers options. I didn't have buy the most expensive unit to attain what I wanted.
It's just like buying a car, or a DVD player, or a computer (or whatever). There's different options and price points within the same brand, and it hasn't severly affected consumers.
Zodduska @ Nov 22nd 2007 3:26PM
"It's just like buying a car"
What can I do to get you into this Xbox 360 today?
Choice for consumers is always a good thing. some of these 360 and PS3 SKUs are looking mighty tempting when purchase had never seriously crossed my mind before.
ill trooper @ Nov 22nd 2007 5:05PM
Well, Jojo, you're being a little selective in your memory, because the PS2 originally had a firewire port on it, then removed that, then introduced the slim with the built-in online... And the gamecube had the DVD-playing Panasonic Q version. There were more options than you choose to remember!
mattclarkie @ Nov 23rd 2007 1:00PM
Mine has a firewire. Did it ever have a use.
The IR recvier and Ethernet port could all be bought seperately, and were initially. The slim didn't give the console a feature that couldn't be added to the fat such as a built in Blu-ray player. When MS bring out a Multi-AV to HDMI, then I will be happy, but I don't see that happening.
I know I sound like I hate MS, but I love my 360, I just feel a little pissed what with all the US love and a 360 that crashes 5 seconds before a MP Vegas game I just won completes losing me 20mins of my life and 1000 exp.
Dan Clarke @ Nov 22nd 2007 8:30AM
shouldn't that say 'HDMI output?'
*sigh.*
Mp3 @ Nov 22nd 2007 11:32AM
Yes, I was wondering what I would connect to the HDMI "input." Can I connect my cable box and record HD on the Xbox HDD? If the bloggers are this clueless imagine how confused the average cosumer is.
Ross Miller @ Nov 22nd 2007 12:38PM
It should. And it does now. :)
Karen @ Nov 22nd 2007 8:55AM
Great chart, it's something a lot of people using it who have asked for a 360 for Christmas. giving the chart to Spouse/Mom/Dad/Garndma/Grampa explaining the one they want. See the box is white and has HDMI written. Also on a sticker on the side look for Lot 340 team CSON hopefully it'll be a falcon with a quiet dvd drive. I've actually had that conversation with my husband...why has it become so hard to buy a Video Game system.
Metal_Link @ Nov 22nd 2007 8:58AM
Well, this helps me a lot in figuring out which one to get when I have an extra $300.
How much is the Charge and Play kit on it's own?
Nick @ Nov 22nd 2007 12:31PM
$20. And that's with the rechargeable battery, which you can buy more of for $12 each.
Gareth @ Nov 22nd 2007 8:59AM
Joystiq has really gone down-hill these days. I look at the RSS feeds and all I see are Reminders and Holidaze articles that don't contain anything of any value taking up around half of the feed.
Where is the NEWS? Where is the CONTENT?
Even a couple of years back when you all had your dicks up the PS3 the content was better than it is these days.
Christopher Grant @ Nov 22nd 2007 9:06AM
Hey, Gareth ... it's, uh ... a national holiday. Not sure if you noticed so just a heads up from me to you there.
n2 @ Nov 22nd 2007 10:14AM
I agree with CG. PS3 is going to get votes because it's the most expensive console and people want a really great deal on it.
The Wii is going to get votes, because it's still not easy to find, and why not have the cheapest console even cheaper? Many parents are still looking for it for their kids this holiday.
As far as the 360, it comes in the most pricing options, and has been available for about 2 years now. Of course it's going to lose the vote.
Super_Trey_Bros @ Nov 25th 2007 1:56AM
Maybe there is no new news to report.
Obie @ Nov 22nd 2007 9:17AM
Say whatever you want about the Wii: one sku, one box.
Done! ( finding one is another matter ;)
Anthony @ Nov 22nd 2007 9:26AM
I'll second the fact that the HDMI is an output and not an input.
Also, there are a couple more SKUs for the Pro system: one that comes bundled with Table Tennis, and another that is bundled with Forza and Ultimate Alliance .
name123 @ Nov 22nd 2007 9:43AM
You forgot to mention:
Xbox Live Silver: Free
Xbox Live Gold (required for online play): $50/year.
20GB HDD: $99
120GB HDD: $179
HD-DVD drive: $179
Wi-Fi adapter: $99
The Xbox 360 is the worst value of the three new consoles. That's probably why it lost in Amazon's customer vote (14%):
http://promotions.amazon.com/gp/holiday/amazon-customers-vote
Christopher Grant @ Nov 22nd 2007 9:59AM
Or, using simple logic, it could be because it's the only affordable, readily available console out of the three and sales have reflected that. Occam's razor: the simplest answer is probably the right one.
Slaziman @ Nov 22nd 2007 10:12AM
If you are into HD-DVD, and need Wi-Fi, which is DEFINITELY a minority.
Q: How many computers have built-in Wi-Fi?
A: Not many (not counting laptops)
Q: How many computers have internet?
A: Almost every goddamn one
So apparently it isn't too hard to get a wire to a stationary machine! The price of the Wi-Fi is definitely much to high, and Microsoft did a dick move with that, but to say the console has little value overall because of it is ridiculous.
Online is worth the extra money, HD-DVD isn't a necessity for the majority.
Evan @ Nov 22nd 2007 11:25AM
And for the PS3...
- Remote Control (because the PS3 doesn't have an IR port, so buying Sony's remote is the only way to watch Blu-Ray movies without looking like a dofus.)
- DualShock3 Controller (because the PS3 only comes with the SIXAXIS controller, so we'll have to upgrade next year to enjoy all the features of the game.)
They add $100 to the cost of the PS3. While neither is necessary, they are just as desirable as the 360's accessories you listed.
Joe @ Nov 22nd 2007 3:28PM
considering that it's one of the worst hd dvd player on the market, they should... make it cheaper ;] imo
Slaziman @ Nov 22nd 2007 3:52PM
Don't forget Component/HDMI cables and a headset.
name123 @ Nov 22nd 2007 10:51PM
@Slaziman
HDMI cable and headset costs won't influence system sales. However, online, HD, HDD, Wi-Fi costs will. This will be a large factor when the PS3 hits the mainstream price of $299 by mid/late 2008.
na2ru1 @ Nov 23rd 2007 11:53AM
@ SlAZINAN
Its easy to say that wired connection is fine SINCE MAJORITY HAVE "ONE"(NOT TWO) MACHINE AT HOME that actively accesses the NET. And since consoles are gonna be the "SECOND" internet machine in millions of houses, many are on BROADBAND, where u r stuck with "ONE" modem/router in the house. (Oh and i TRIED hooking up 2 MODEMS.....IT DONT WORK!!!!)
Now tell me HOW is MAJORITY is expected to connect their 360s if its across the other side of the house. If running an ethernet under doors or drilling holes thru wall n ceiling is wot u hav in mind, U R CRAZY!!!!!!!!
Sony cleverly ADDED Wifi knowing the future trend and the desire of cheap HD TVS that (definetly)wont be side-by-side with a PC. They also considered online is gna be used by SOME, casually so therefore free.
This is Y i back Sony SO MUCH more the M$. Sony thinks about it, the "convienience". i hav both 360 n ps3. ITS a nightmare wen having to wire up ethernet to 360 since modem is in 1 room and HD TV is in another room. I HAVE TO DRAG THE TV CLOSER TO THE DOOR!
M$ MAKE UR 4UCKING wifi CHEAP!!!!!!
Super_Trey_Bros @ Nov 25th 2007 1:56AM
Sony added built in Wi-Fi and decided to make everybody pay for something that most people don't need.
Oh, and the crap about how will somebody go online with their console if the Computer is on the other side of the house is a lame question. How many people ever needed to run cable to a room for cable TV, or a telephone line, or maybe an AC outlet? I find it pretty easy to put a hole in the floor, run wires across the cellar (or crawlspace) ceiling and the drill another hole and presto! an Ethernet cable right where you need it. Works great for the home theater too. No more messy speaker wires everywhere.
Also, who says one has to buy the 360's wireless antenna thing? These days many 802.11b/g wireless routers can be used to send and receive from another wireless router, and they usually run around $50.
Just because Microsoft presents you with the $100 option, it doesn't mean it's your only option.
usagizero @ Nov 22nd 2007 9:57AM
So have they fixed the RROD or the constant freezing on any of these? I have gone through three US 360s so far, although my Japanese one is problem free, and honestly don't know why anyone is supporting a company that can't solve this two years later.
mnemo @ Nov 22nd 2007 10:04AM
*yawn*
usagizero @ Nov 22nd 2007 10:10AM
i honestly want to know. I'm not a fanboy of any of them, i have one active of american and japanese regions and buy games for all. i keep getting tempted to get an elite, or collectors edition, but don't want to spend money on another lemon.
*yawn* all you want, microsoft messed up by rushing it out trying to beat the others, and needs to come clean and solve the problems.
hubbahubba @ Nov 23rd 2007 12:19AM
you hit the nail on the head usagizero - people refuse to accept that, en masse, they bought a lemon.
Also to note is that the HDMI is only 1.2 and not the current generation of 1.3 - who wants to buy yesterday's technology at today's prices?
Oh as for the wi-fi argument someone made earlier - yeah, wired ethernet is okay - if you are living in 1999. This is supposed to be cutting edge technolgoy people - who wants to see wires taped to the floor, fish wires in the wall or spend an extra $3000 wiring your entire house with Cat 5?
n2 @ Nov 22nd 2007 10:20AM
My only quip with the graph is the inclusion of the discontinued Core unit. It hasn't been on the shelves for months at Best Buy or Circuit City.
And a refurbished price?! Okay, whatever..., not from Microsoft. I'd err on not including the system as it's NOT a current offering.
I'm guessing that the Core is in the graph so that can include discontinued PS3 units if they happen to create a Sony graph.
Ross Miller @ Nov 22nd 2007 12:06PM
And we did create one, should be up now.
As for refurbished price, peoples might be buying consoles from GameStop or mom-and-pop stores and 20GB models will still be there. It is important.
Tango Charlie @ Nov 22nd 2007 11:48AM
You forgot to make the "Green/Orange" cell red. (To denote that it does, factually, look like garbage)
Ross Miller @ Nov 22nd 2007 3:26PM
:) +1 for you
gone with the wind @ Nov 22nd 2007 12:29PM
ooooo at 200 dollars i would buy a core to bad i already have a pro, seriously is the rrod that bad cause i have never had one (knock on wood) and ive had my xbox for at least 9 months, i guess its just me ive never had a problem on any console still have my snes working and still blowing in them cartigdes same with the ps1,n64,ps2,dreamcast,and my ps3. the only thing im not satisfied with is all the effing shooters this gen. I WANT MY RPGS !!!!!!!!!!!! ........ ooooo mass effect close enough ok bye
Blast Processing Megadrive @ Nov 22nd 2007 12:58PM
Doesn't the motherboard codename appear on the box? I'm pretty sure it does...
Jason @ Nov 22nd 2007 4:12PM
Should the first 3 models be listed as Partial BC, as thats what they offer.
ill trooper @ Nov 22nd 2007 4:54PM
My 360 came with a red ring too, you might want to add that to the chart. Yeah, digg me down. Doesn't keep me from loving it. But you know it's been a real problem for millions of people.
Gavin @ Nov 22nd 2007 5:32PM
My g/f and I have been waiting for the new chipsets to come out before we sunk our money in one. Last week we finally bit the bullet and went with the Pro bundle, and also picked up Saints Row, Crackdown, and Viva Pinata. Seeing as how it already came with two games as well, this was more than enough to totally destroy my past week as I haven't been able to get anything done.
I've been a huge gamer since the days of the 2600, and I've owned just about every major console released in America.
This is one of the best "Out of the box" experiences I've EVER had with any game system. Achievement points and Live alone make it stand head and shoulders above my other systems. I'm so glad I finally took the plunge.
Thank god for the Falcon chipset.
h0mi @ Nov 22nd 2007 5:51PM
Isnt the halo 3 edition a special edition for a limited time?
Dear MS- Please reduce the price of all accessories by 25% at least.
Silent Xenocide @ Nov 23rd 2007 8:26AM
Some of the accessories are well priced, like the plug and play kit. And some aren't, like the HDD and wifi.
SKI @ Nov 22nd 2007 7:58PM
"Am I the only one that seems to remember that even the bloody NES had multiple 'sku' (which we fucking called 'bundles' back then)?"
Yes, because you are confusing bundles with SKUs. They are different. Two different bundles have different pack-ins but the same basic system. Two different SKUs have different hardware and different features. You can't do things on some SKUs that you can do on others. All there different NESs could do all the same things, unlike, the Xbox 360 Core which didn't have HDMI support or a HDD like the Premium.