June is normally the time of year when we see deals aimed at graduates. Sony and Microsoft, however, are targeting new college students. Both tech giants are offering a free game system with purchase of a new desktop or laptop with show of proof of college attendance.
Microsoft actually kicked this off in late May. Shoppers at Dell, Fry’s, HPDirect.com, NewEgg, and Microsoft’s own stores can get a 4 GB xBox 360 with the purchase of any machine over $599. Sony, on the other hand, offers a Playstation 3 or a Playstation Vita handheld with purchase of specific systems. Sony’s deal has a nice little addition of including the faculty in on the game console-buying initiative. However, most of the Sony systems cost a bit more than $599.
Frankly, I question the wisdom of bundling a time-sucking device with what should be a productivity tool (and is really more of a time-suck in and of itself). Your average college student, especially a freshman, has enough going on without adding the allure of a gaming system. Still, you can’t beat the price.
To me, Microsoft’s offer is the better deal. You have access to a wider variety of systems and vendors. Furthermore, the upcoming tight integration of the xBox360, Windows Phone 8, and Windows 8 make the gaming system a better investment.
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