[Tom]

No, its neither of your poll options its a popularity contest. In series 1, Steve was not the best vocally. In series 2, Shayne wasn't the best vocally altough he was the most marketable. In series 3, Leona was both marketable and the best vocally. This year, Rhydian is not the best vocally, IMO Niki was but coming from a biased opinion from someone who doesn't like his classical style. Leon, Hope and Alisha have the most marketability.

It is a cross of the two meaning it is a popularity contest, because the most popular person will obviously win. If Same Difference turn out to be the winenrs, then it clearly isn't a talent contest.

Having a talent does not necessarily equal a career, past flop talent show winners are good examples. Also, you do not necessarily have to have talent for a semi or successful career eg The Cheeky Girls and The Spice Girls.