Pundits just can't help comparing the video-capable iPod to the Sony PlayStation Portable. Our resident expert C.K., author of the forthcoming book PSP Hacks, commented on these comparisons last month. C.K. concluded that there is room for both the PSP and the new iPod, because the former is essentially a gaming system and the latter a multimedia and storage device. Macworld now takes another comparative look at the two devices, focusing specifically on their capabilities as portable video players. Macworld author Peter Cohen concludes that the iPod wins in the area of portability and video distribution. He prefers slipping the iPod into a shirt pocket to toting the larger PSP. He also finds Apple's iTunes video distribution system a big plus for the iPod. On the other hand, Cohen deems the PSP the winner when it comes to viewability. He just can't resist the PSP's big screen (4.3 inches as compared to the iPod's 2.3 inches) and long battery life. Cohen compares other aspects of the two players, from storage capacity (the iPod shines here), to computer connectivity, to the ease of converting to PSP or iPod friendly video formats.
Cohen's analysis makes sense, but it neglects one important consideration–brand loyalty. When it comes to choosing a portable video player, Apple users naturally gravitate to the iPod. We just love Apple products, no matter how superior the PSP screen or battery may be. That said, if you're into gaming you're probably lusting after a PSP too.
