Being hooked by the ability to stream videos from NetFlix on my laptop, I purchased a refurbished X-Box 360 to do the same in the basement (as well as play games). After using the streaming ability on the X-Box for several of my daughters slumber parties (do they still call it that?) and a few movies for the family I decided it was time to bring the streaming functionality to the family room.
Enter the Roku. This $99 device does one thing & does it VERY well! It streams select content from NetFlix, Amazon & Major League Baseball. With rumors circulating all over the internet of additional functionality coming soon $99 was a small price to pay for a new toy!
Setup is as simple as plugging the device in, hooking it to the TV using one of several wiring methods (I chose HDMI), and setting up your network connection. The Roku supports wired and wireless connections. I’m currently using it with my wireless network with great results but I plan on hard wiring it to the network soon.
Overall I have to say the device was well worth the $99 (one time) cost of admission. I’m hoping NetFlix will release their entire catalog for streaming soon as well as the rumored new features (YouTube, Revision3, etc.). If you are a current NetFlix subscriber and want to take advantage of their “free” streaming media offerings, check out the Roku, I think you will really enjoy it!