Roku HD
Posted by Akensai on February 15, 2011 in Reviews and has no replies.
These days the internet is full of little wonders, the big thing now is “Direct to your TV” internet media, for that I am reviewing the Roku HD. While I myself use my Xbox 360 as a media device, I ordered one of these for my mom to stream Netflix directly to her living room, turns out it works pretty well.
Specifications
| Networking | Wi-Fi (802.11B/G) with WEP, WPA, and WPA2 support | 10/100 Ethernet (RJ-45) |
| Audio Output | Stereo (L/R RCA) | Digital Optical | Digital Over HDMI |
| Remote Control | NEC protocol, supported by various universal remotes |
| Power Input | 5V, 1.5A provided by included AC adapter |
| Power Consumption | 6 watts peak, 4 watts in standby |
| Size | 5 x 5 x 1.75 inches (130 x 130 x 41 mm) |
| Weight | 11 oz (300 grams) |
Run Down!
Generally speaking, techy people will never take someone else’s word on a techy object, so whats the point on this entire review? I like the Roku, simple as that. The Roku is a great stand in for actual television broadcasting, using Netflix you can watch almost anything you can think of, but this review isn’t on Netflix now is it, its on the Roku HD. The Roku HD is a perfect device for media streaming, it includes applications for multiple sites (amazon, last.fm, so on so forth), but generally most people will buy the Roku just for Netflix.
Price
The Roku is very inexpensive, especially if you really don’t require High Definition, basic Roku is $79 at the moment. The Roku HD, is a real penny saver for $99.99, affordable means to streaming Netflix to that $8,000 plasma TV you bought. While I dont suggest it you can also get the Roku HD(xr) for $129.99, the only real plus to this version is a better wireless connection, but as long as your Roku isn’t stationed 300ft away from your router, you wont even notice the difference, so why pay the extra $30?
Quality
I have to say, I was quite impressed with the quality at which the Roku streams (your internet connection does make a difference!), on 10mbps download, my mom was watching Netflix in near blu-ray quality, the sound, just like the video is superb, this little box works wonders quality wise!
Pros
- Affordable
- Super Stream Quality
- Perfect for HD
- Netflix menus are great
- Hardly any power use
- Always on and ready to use
- No long wait time for load
Cons
- Needs more channel content
- Remote is funky (OCD)
- Needs an on/off switch (just in case)
Conclusion
I greatly suggest the Roku HD as a means for streaming Netflix to any TV in your house, the system is great, the firmware is even better, and the way it works is second to none, if your on a tight budget, but really want to stream to your TV, than you should definitely check out the Roku HD.
Where do I get one!?
From the Roku Website of course! As far as I know its the only place to buy one, at random times they offer great deals though, I got my moms Roku HD for $50! 50% off on Christmas, great deal, as I said.
