Recently Microsoft announced a 4GB Xbox 360 console with Kinect bundle for $99—a shockingly low price that’s sure to turn some heads. But, is it a good deal?
On the surface, a $99 price tag seems too good to be true. I mean really… a console with Kinect for $99? That’s less expensive than a PS3, Wii or even any handheld device out there. Count me in!
But, as you know—if something sounds too good to be true it usually is—and that’s the case here if you don’t know what you’re getting yourself into.
If you’re a smart consumer who pays attention to things, you’ve probably already noticed the asterisk (*) next to the $99 price. This indicates something. In this case it indicates a required 2 year contract to Xbox Live Gold at $15/month. Ouch.
So let’s do the math:
A new 4GB Xbox 360 with Kinect bundle costs about $300. Add 2 years ($50/year) of XBL Gold and you’re up to $400.
With this new bundle you start with a $100 for the console and then add $15 each month for 2 years (24 months). That gives you a grand total of $460.
Honestly, it’s not a bad deal as long as you realize what the total cost ends up being after your contract is up. Knowing that, what do you think? Do you find that a $99 + $15/month subscription model is easier to swallow than $300 + $50 + $50?
Let me know what you think via Twitter.
