The Roku devices are awesome ways to watch HD (or SD, if you want) video from services like Netflix and Hulu. Thousands of movies and the latest television shows. Since the device is less than $75, it inexpensively brings all the benefits of things like Google TV, at a much lower cost. Add Netflix and Hulu Plus for about $15/month, and you have a much better option than cable/satellite.
It’s dead simple to setup and works over home wireless networks. You can plug it into Ethernet if you want, but you don’t have to worry about lots of wires running around. The HDMI output also reduces your cabling mess.
What doesn’t is do?
- stream from your home network, like the Western Digital WD TV Live Plus. Comes in handy when you’ve downloaded a Blu-Ray .mkv of the latest Hollywood releases.
- play live news like CNN or live sports. So just make sure you get an invitation to someone else’s SuperBowl party.
I’m enjoying the Roku, but I’ll probably get the Western Digital WD TV Live Plus for the TV room if I don’t build an HTPC. The Roku’s great for the bedroom and guestroom, but I think I want a few more options downstairs.
Next project? Rebuilding the arcade cabinet / karaoke machine…
