![]() The new Kinect features a 1080p camera, a major upgrade from the original’s VGA camera. Just like its console, the Kinect 2 is a conglomeration of large vents and shiny and matte black plastic. Measuring 9.75 x 2.5 x 2.51 inches, the second-gen Kinect is smaller than the original 11.4 x 2.9 x 2.8 inch model, but has a more bulkier appearance, especially when placed next to the PlayStation Camera (7.3 x 1.06 x 1.06 inches). The follow-up to the Kinect sensor improves upon the original in almost every way -except size. When it comes to gaming however, Xbox is still the gold standard delivering a weighty, yet well-balanced controller that’s comfortable to use over a long period of time. In terms of weight, the One’s 6 x 4 x 1.7-inch controller is a heavyweight at 9.9 ounces compared to the 7.4 ounce 6.2 x 2.04 x 3.85-inch DualShock 4 controller. We also appreciate the central depression, which like Xbox 360, keeps our thumbs where they belong. Sony’s biggest improvement, by far, are the dual analog sticks which are smaller and more textured than the previous generation. To show-off Sony’s social-minded push, the Select and Start buttons have replaced by Options and Share. PlayStation’s DualShock 4 controllers have also gotten a facelift, adding a touchpad, built-in speaker and lightbar for some motion control capabilities and in-game indicators. The power pack now sits flush against the controller providing a flat surface for gamers to rest their battle-weary fingers. One of the more noticeable changes on the new controller is the battery compartment. A pair of infrared lights are located along the top for use with the Kinect 2. A high speed wireless plug resides at the bottom of the device, waiting for a headset. The sync button is positioned by the left button, slightly above the microUSB slot. This new design makes for a more natural feel, allowing your fingers to curve around the controller and easily depress both sets of buttons. The bumpers are more prominent on the One’s controller and the triggers are wider. The bumpers and triggers located at the top of the controller are tighter with springy feedback. The gaudy green and grey Xbox Guide button is also gone, replaced with a simple white backlit Xbox button. ![]() Similar to the PS4, the Start and Select buttons on the One’s controllers have been retired in favor of View and Menu buttons. The buttons on the One’s controller are clear with easy to read, colorful lettering instead of the colored buttons from the 360. The face buttons (X,Y,A and B) are closer together and are slightly more pronounced than they were on the 360 controller. The change is more than cosmetic, however, with the black glossy pad offering firmer feedback complete with a satisfying click when you press down. The d-pad has also undergone a makeover with a sleeker, more convex look. ![]() The end result is a more comfortable user experience, especially during marathon gaming sessions. The outer rim is lined with a micro-texture finish to prevent slippage. The dual analog sticks are smaller and thinner than the previous generation, and have a slight depression perfect for thumbs. The top of the controller has a glossy black plastic crown that offsets the black matte plastic on the rest of the remote. ![]() First, the overall design is slightly rounder and softer than its predecessor, making for a better grip. However, the tweaks the company did make offer a world of difference. Microsoft didn’t have to make many changes to last-gen’s controller. After, the console took about 30 seconds to launch. All in all, the initial setup takes about 20 minutes. From there, we were prompted to set up our gamertag and Xbox Live account. We chose our time zone and configured the Kinect 2 sensor. Next, there were two system updates which took about 10 minutes to install. (You can use the Ethernet port or Wi-Fi thanks to the built-in 802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi radio.) You can also connect your cable or satellite TV box to the Xbox one via the HDMI-in port (more on this later). From there, we followed a series of prompts to set the language, country and Internet connection. After plugging in the power brick, the Kinect 2 and connecting the One to the television via HDMI, we turned the system on. If you’ve set up a last-gen console, you’ve set up an Xbox One. The PS4’s ports aren’t as bountiful with only a pair of USB 3.0 ports on the front and HDMI-out, Ethernet, an Optical port, an Auxilliary port for the PlayStation Camera and a jack for the power plug along the rear. There’s also HDMI-in, HDMI-out, S/PDIF, an Auxiliary port, Ethernet, IR Out, a power jack and a secure lock slot. In addition to the USB 3.0 port on the left side of the console, you’ll find another pair of USB 3.0 ports in the rear of the device. The Xbox One’s cup overflows when it comes to ports.
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