Which streaming media device is right for you?

Editors' note: This story was originally published on December 15, 2010. It was updated on August 19, 2011 with updated product recommendations. 

CNET - Once a fringe activity for the geeky set, online video streaming is now officially mainstream, thanks in large part to the omnipresence of Netflix on nearly all Internet-connected entertainment devices. But with so many options now available, what's the best solution--be it for Netflix, Hulu Plus, Vudu, Amazon, or any of the myriad other online video sources?

As with anything in real life, there isn't one simple, straightforward answer that works for everyone. But we've created a set of different recommendations that should work for nearly anybody, based upon your individual priorities.

Roku 2 XS: Best solution for less than $100

(Credit: Roku)

 

New for 2011, the $99 Roku 2 XS box is our Editors' Choice in the category, and one of the most affordable Internet streaming media solutions out there. It offers the best bang for the buck, and the new model even includes the ability to play games like Angry Birds. If you're also looking to view Blu-ray discs or stream files over your home network, you'll want to read on for more-versatile choices.

Key compatible services: Netflix, Amazon Video On Demand, Hulu Plus, Mediafly, MLB.TV, NHL GameCenter, NBA Game Time, MLS MatchDay Live, Pandora, Flickr, Crackle, Al Jazeera English, FoxNews.com, Facebook photos, Flickr, plus dozens of others

Read the full review of the Roku 2 XS

Worthwhile alternative: The Roku 2 HD drops the USB port, gaming remote, Ethernet port, and 1080p video support, but it's otherwise identical to the Roku 2 XS for $30 less. Likewise, the $80 Sony SMP-N100 streams many of the same key services, plus adds the ability to stream files from a networked PC (DLNA compatibility).

Apple TV: Best solution for Apple fans

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)

 

If you want the most diversity of content, the Roku box is the way to go. But if you're a die-hard Apple aficionado, Apple TV may be the better choice. It's the only box that's compatible with iTunes and AirPlay. The latter function allows you to stream audio (like Pandora and other Web- and app-based audio streams), photos, and even some video from your iPad, iPhone, or iPod Touch directly to your TV screen at the touch of a button. Even better, recent firmware upgrades have added MLB.TV, NBA, and Vimeo channels, and made it possible to access the full range of iTunes TV content (not just the small number of rental-only shows that were previously available). We'd still like to see more "channels" available, but for $99, it's not a bad little box.
Key compatible services: iTunes, AirPlay, Netflix, YouTube, Vimeo, MLB.TV, NBA, Flickr, Mobile Me (Photos), Internet radio

Read the full review of the Apple TV

Worthwhile alternative: If you want more flexibility--albeit with a far bigger budget--you could always just attach a Mac Mini to your TV.

PS3: Best solution for gamers

(Credit: Sony)

 

Sony's ad campaign proudly touts that the PlayStation 3 "only does everything." For once, it's a case of truth in advertising. Everyone knows the PS3 is a great game console and a Blu-ray player. But--thanks to an ongoing series of firmware updates--it's now a formidable media streamer as well. In addition to Netflix, Hulu Plus, Vudu, NHL, and MLB.TV, the PS3 will now offer NFL Sunday Ticket--the same "every out of market football game" package that was previously available only to DirecTV customers. The PS3 is also able to stream music, video, and photos from networked PCs and attached USB drives. Sweetening the pot even more: Sony just dropped the price to $249. Bottom line? The PS3 is far and away the most versatile box to have under your TV.

Key compatible services: Netflix, Vudu, Hulu Plus, MLB.TV, NHL GameCenter, NFL Sunday Ticket, Qriocity, PlayStation Store, DLNA (home media streaming); plays DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs

Read the full review of the Sony PlayStation 3

Worthwhile alternative: The Xbox 360 also does double duty for gaming and online entertainment, offering Netflix, Zune Marketplace, ESPN3 (for existing ESPN subscribers on compatible ISPs), Last.fm, and (as of April 29, 2011) Hulu Plus. But, unlike the PS3, to get many of these services you also need to be an Xbox Live Gold subscriber ($60/year). And the Xbox can only play standard DVDs, not Blu-ray movies.

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