Comparing the fan noise/thermals of the Xbox 360 S and delidded A01 PS3
2This is a very...unscientific test, don't take it too seriously. But I got very curious after logging some hours in Assassin's Creed on my 360: How did my Cell-delidded A01 PS3 compare temperature and noise wise? I got up close with my wireless mics and decided to give it a try.
In a 10 minute "launch into a game" test, the PS3 definitely does sound louder on mic, and this also equates to it actually running a smidge cooler in longer play sessions. But from halfway across the room where I normally sit the noise is much, much more diminished and really isn't an issue. Given the mics are very close to the console this really is exaggerating the noise quite a bit.
That also said, in my case, a delidding seriously saved my PS3. Prior to doing so, the PS3 would have been sitting at 78c with fans going at full blast not even 5 minutes in, and that's with a clean out and repasting with the good stuff (Arctic MX5). If your Cell/RSX temps refuse to come down and your PS3s fans sound like a windtunnel, it might be time to consider a delid. (Don't ask me for recommendations on providers though, I did it myself and it was...an experience. Not recommended for the feint of heart.)
I think the PS3 also held up quite well considering this is nearish launch PS3 (having a date of March 2007 on it). And the 360 S is a 360 that has already been through several die shrinks and optimization passes.