I’ve never stayed at either, but you’re still not very far from Times Square. When I was looking at the Crown Plaza, I saw rates around $200 which seems like a very good deal to me. But on other dates the rate started pushing $500 to $600, and I was having serious second thoughts.
Also, the rooms at the Crown Plaza look small to me, but it does have good reviews.
In my opinion, if you want a good 3-star hotel just south of Times Square and you can get it for around $200/night, I say go for it.
Otherwise, keep looking.