If you don't care about downloading, the only big problem with the Arcade is the lack of backwards compatibility with Xbox games. However if you desire it later, adding a hard drive to it will get you backwards compatibility, so you still have an option.
Bottom line - if you don't want to download stuff or to play Xbox games, buy the Arcade and a cheap HDMI cable (cheap works the same as expensive for HDMI).
My Mario Kart Wii friend code: 2707-1866-0957