Expert: Joseph - 11/15/2008

Question
I want to purchase an Xbox 360 console this holiday,  I 'm still deciding wich one.

Option A: Arcade 256 MB
Option B: 20GB

My first option is A because of the $50 cheaper...and I'm kinda broke. But I was wondering if 256MB are enough? How many games can be stored in that amount of memory?

Answer
If you plan to use Xbox live (which I highly recommend) you will need a HDD.  Some games require it, and there is a huge volume of videos, themes, demos, and arcade games you can download.  The 256 MB card is just not enough.  However, microsoft does not sell the 20 HDD bundle anymore.  The pro systems for $300 come with a 60 GB HDD instead of 20.  Also keep in mind on Nov. 19, Xbox will launch its new update, which will allow you the option to install part of your games on to the xbox HDD, which will decrease load times, you'll be glad you have that 60 HDD when that comes around, as most installs are greater than 4 GB.  It's really hard to justify the arcade bundle when for $50 gets you a MUCH bigger space.  The 256 MB will be enough space to save some games, but in all honesty it's worth the extra $50.