I am trying to decide whether or not to buy a PS3. Originally I had planned to buy a blu-ray player and the Apple TV unit to download movies, etc. but I read on here that you can download movies with a PS3. In this case it seems to make more sense to get the PS3 and have the gaming ability as well.

But I have a few questions for those knowledgeable with downloading movies via PS3. Are you able to buy the movies or do you only have the ability to rent? That was a negative about Apple TV, it seems that you can only rent. Also, what are the prices for new releases both rent/buy? If I buy a PS3, can I download movies via Itunes on my computer and transfer them to the PS3?

Any help/advice would be appreciated.

 

You can buy or rent movies and tv shows.

Renting seems to range from 3 to 6 bucks, depending on the movie and if its high definition or not.

Buying seems to cost 10 to 20.

And yes you can connect your computers videos (nearly any video format) and connect that to the PS3.

Use Tversity on your computer to do so. Its free.

 

Thanks Ken. What about transferring movies and files via wireless Internet between the PS3 and a computer? Is it possible? My cable box has a USB port, so can I download movies on the PS3 or computer and transfer via flash drive to the cable box?

 

Maybe. I've never tried it quite like that.

 

You can stream movies to your PS3 from your computer wirelessly, I do it all the time. Just set up a media server on your computer. You can also transfer the movies via USB flashdrive.

 

I have a mac. Does that make any difference?

I understand that the HDD is upgradeable on the PS3 so is it worthwhile to get the 160 vs the 80gb?