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Can't decide between htpc or media streamer (?)

thestrangebrew1

thestrangebrew1

Diamond Member
Hey guys, I've got some old pc parts I was going to use for an htpc: 4400+ 2 gb ram, ASUS A8n 32 SLI deluxe. I would need to get a new psu and most likely a gpu. I may have an xp disc somewhere, but if I can't find it, I'll prob have to buy another OS or else use ubuntu (which I'm def. a noob at). Considering all this, I spotted a sale on NE a Patriot Alpine media streamer thingy and thought maybe something like this would better serve me and leave a smaller footprint, and less power vs. an htpc with the parts above.

What are your thoughts and opinions of an htpc vs. a media streamer? I don't plan on using the htpc as a recorder, I'm just considering putting something upstairs in the master bedroom to watch movies off my WHS 2011 box where all my media files are at. What do you guys recommend? I fig. the parts and OS I may need would run about $100-$150, and a media streamer would be about the same.
 
First, there's the noise factor...I'm going to assume the media device will be much quieter.

Second, there's the usability factor...I have MCE remotes for all of my HTPCs, as well as wireless keyboards. Beats getting out of bed to change the program.

Third, there's the time factor...you'll spend hours building it, then hours more installing the OS, service packs and criticals, and you're still not connected. Media device just needs to be plugged in, powered on and configured.

Fourth, there's the cost factor...once you get rolling, you may be surprised that you won't get under the $150 barrier.

Personally, I'd probably wait for a good deal on a lower-end Xbox 360, which is thoroughly tested against WHS for compatibility. I think they all come with an MCE remote, not sure. It's just plug-n-play, easy-squeezy streaming happiness...
 
Personally, I'd probably wait for a good deal on a lower-end Xbox 360, which is thoroughly tested against WHS for compatibility. I think they all come with an MCE remote, not sure. It's just plug-n-play, easy-squeezy streaming happiness...
Click to expand...

I'd 2nd this, you'd be surprised at how good of an HTPC the 360 is, what was just about all I used mine for. I think you can find roku boxes for pretty cheap as well.
 
Yea I'm using a ps3 for downstairs to stream, but upstairs in the MBR I don't have an internet ready tv or blu ray player. Like I said, I have some old parts laying around, I just didn't think the cost to get them put together and running would be worth it considering what it'd be used for. I'll just keep an eye out for a used 360 or maybe take a look at WDTV live or something like that. I won't be doing too much internet stuff, mainly just accessing movies, etc from my server. I don't have hulu or netflix.
 
Slugbait has it summarized nicely. A dedicated media streamer box will be quieter, cost less, and probably comes with a decent remote. An HTPC is more flexible, but louder and less power efficient.
 
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