Buy Wii vs PS3

Wii and PS3 Hardware

The biggest difference when you buy Wii vs PS3 comes from the technical specifications. The PS3 has eight powerful processors work at its core and this has an advantage and a disadvantage. The advantage is that games will look spectacular, especially if the same game is visualized on both systems. The big disadvantage is that it is harder to develop for and companies may opt to not utilize all the power that the PS3's CELL technology can muster. What this means to you is that games can be created, developed, and published faster for the Wii system, giving you quicker options for your favorite games instead of waiting for it to come out on the PS3.

Peripherals

The Wii controller is the most advanced controller for any gaming system ever. It's so advanced, other companies have purchased patent rights to use the gyroscopic technology in other devices like the makers of the Life Pen. With sensors communicating with the sensor bar, the Wii controllers put you in the action and make you move like the action. The PS3 controller does have it's 6-way axis (SIXAXIS) techniques, but it's no comparsion to the Wii controller.

Beyond the controller, if you want to immerse yourself into games that require movement, then you'll want to get any of the number of peripherals available. The Balance Board goes with Wii Fit and allows you to exercise with balance games, strength activities, and aerobic programs. You can get maracas for Samba De Amigo, DDR mats for the Dance Dance Revolution games, and a light gun for the shooting games. There's even a steering wheel that you slip the controller into so that you can drive realistically.

Online Gaming When you Buy Wii vs PS3

PlayStation 3

Wii

The PS3 has an extensive free online gaming community and many games to choose from. The Wii also lets you game online for free.

There sometimes are many people online to game with, especially with games like Guitar Hero or Dance Dance Revolution. Mario Kart seems to have a steady stream of players. The best game to play online at this time, though, is Soul Calibur IV on the PS3.

Both systems have smooth frame rates and low lag when it comes to online play, especially if you have Comcast or a similar broadband service. Buying the Wii vs PS3 in this category is a tie because the capabilities of both systems are equal. Wireless, regular updates, and a decent selection of games make it no easy choice.

Edging slightly is the Wii because with the Virtual Console, you will be able to purchase (through Wii Points) older games from the N64, the Sega Genesis, and other consoles to play right from the Wii. Can you say Altered Beast anyone? The PS3 has the PSN Store, but the nostalgic library is not as vast.

The Games

To buy Wii vs PS3 without knowing what games are available may be a poor way to choose. Most of the games for the Wii are meant for multiplayer whether online or offline. The Wii games are pure fun, letting you get engaged in the game and coming back for more. They are very reminiscent of additive old school gaming.

The online games that are popular for the PS3 are shooters and sports games. Ghost Recon, first person shooters, and Madden '09 have players on constantly. The upside is you can always find a person to play; the downside is that those players are probably superb players, so you'd better bring your "A" game. The Wii games incorporate some skill, but with little play, you can become an expert.

So Wii vs PS3?

It is a preference. It also depends if there are Wiis in stock in your area. The PS3 is relatively easy to get, so in the end, that might influence your decision also.