I can't give a comparison since I've never been to AnimeUSA...but I've never failed to have a great time at Otakon.

Depends on your taste.
Otakon is a giant con
AUSA is a small-to-medium con.
Both have plenty to do, Otakon has more industry presence, AUSA is more intimate.

AnimeUSA for that community feel.

Otakon for the atmosphere, photoshoots and meetups.

But I go to anime conventions mostly for the atmosphere.

AUSA also has changed it's location, so I'm giving it another shot. I've been twice. 1st time was meh. 2nd time was better due to friends and awesome /cgl people.

Otakon, been going for years. I remember waiting in line for dealers when it was the game room and half the con. It's so big to the point that I think this might be my last year. The last time I had fun at it was 2009. I'm tired of the cost increase. Cosplaying is really the only reason for it now, which isn't enough for me. The industry aspect that another anon said has really changed the con, imo.

Katsucon is honestly the best con that I've been to in my con season. I've hit all 3 for the past two years in a row and Katsu stands out as the best. AUSA 2nd cause of location, and then Otakon.

pic just cause.

>>5655252
The new location does look pretty fucking sweet.
And the best part, since it's in the same area as the Omni, means MR. CHEN'S ORGANIC CHINESE, EVERY MEAL EVERY DAY

Seriously best chinese food I've ever had.