X-Factor (UK) vs. American Idol

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It's not fair, I know, but this is really a temperature check for me. I've always wanted to make a poll on this!

So what do you think is the better singing competition: X-Factor (UK) or American Idol?

Key points to compare:
-format
-contestants
-winners
-judges

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For me, X-Factor blows American Idol out of the water. Especially after watching last year's X-Factor clips on YouTube, there's no way American Idol can compare.

First of all, the format makes so much more sense. Having different categories (and not having any age limit) gives all kinds of people chances. Plus, the judges have much more say in the competition, which is what it should essentially be about. The power they have is just amazing.

Which brings me to point number two: the contestants and winners. American Idol has what, three successful winners out of eight seasons? And only Kelly Clarkson is humangous elsewhere; Carrie's country doesn't fly anywhere else. But X-Factor made Leona Lewis, the biggest artist to come around this era, IMO. Plus, all the contestants on the X-Factor (especially season five) are AMAZING. Very rarely are they weak, compared to American Idol's first few to be eliminated. That comes back around to the judging.

The judges on the X-Factor are SO much more competent than American Idol. May be with the addition of Kara they have a little more credibility, but Randy and Paula don't stack up to Louis or Cheryl. Dannii I think is the softest, but she's not that soft either.

Overall, I think X-Factor really has the "X Factor" when it comes to their show. They have a much better format with competent judges and amazing talents. And they don't let audiences screw thet talented in the beginning, and let the entertaining win (Taylor Hicks? Just because he has grey hair?).