The X Factor vs. American Idol

There has been much talk about The X Factor the last few days.  Many people say The X Factor is just like American Idol.  Although it has some obvious similarities, it is not just like American Idol.  I would like to break down some of the differences between the two shows for anyone that might be curious.

• The X Factor is missing two likeable personalities from American Idol: Randy Jackson and Ryan Seacrest.  I never imagined I would miss the two of them, but I actually do.
• Simon Cowell actually seems a bit nicer on The X Factor.  I am not sure if he is trying to turn over a new leaf, or he is just enjoying being on a different show.
• The auditions for The X Factor are in front of a huge live audience.  This gives you an opportunity to see if someone will freeze on stage as opposed to just performing in front of a small group of judges like American Idol.
• The X Factor performers are allowed music in the background for their performance.  In my opinion, this helps many of them. 
• All the judges are drinking Pepsi for The X Factor.  For American Idol, everyone always drank Coke.  Interesting all of the judges would drink the same soda, huh?  Oh, that is right.  TV is just all about the endorsements anyway.
• The prize for The X Factor is enormous: 5 million dollars.  It makes that once exciting 1 million dollar prize on American Idol seem small. 
• Anyone 12 years old or older can audition for The X Factor.  There is no such thing as being too old to audition for the show, which is really nice.  American Idol now accepts those from the ages of 15 to 28.  Let's face it - some people who are way older than 28 have talent, so now they can audition for The X Factor.