Netflix streaming device?

[techs]

I would like to start streaming Netflix to my 52 inch lcd HD tv.

Are there any advantages to using something like a Roku or another device over just using my computer?

Do some devices have hard drives that let me download and watch later, not interfering with my internet?

Can I get HD thru my computer or do I need another device?

I am streaming noob.

Thanks.

 

[BTA]

If I were just wanting to do Netflix streaming I would either use the xbox 360 or a WD Live Plus or similar.

It's honestly kind of a PITA using a PC. (I still do it but it's not very slick for a livingroom sort of setup, and the WMC plugin for Netflix plays like crap).

 

[Slick5150]

The Roku is probably the easiest way to go. They're fairly cheap and simple to use. Unless you already have an video game system that is, as they can all already do it.

As far as I know nothing allows you to download the entire movie and waqtch it later. I'm fairly sure that would bypass the DRM built into Netflix.

 

[techs]

If I were just wanting to do Netflix streaming I would either use the xbox 360 or a WD Live Plus or similar.

It's honestly kind of a PITA using a PC. (I still do it but it's not very slick for a livingroom sort of setup, and the WMC plugin for Netflix plays like crap).

I have a second pc near the tv and I have a wireless keyboard and mouse.
So, it would really work for me, I think.

However, if I couldn't stream in the 720p HD that I see the Roku and other boxes can, I would probably want one instead of the pc.

Can I stream HD from my pc?

Thanks.

 

[IndyColtsFan]

Grab a Roku. They're cheap (start at $59), extremely simple to use, and work amazingly well. We bought my wife's parents one for Christmas and connected it wirelessly to their wireless G router. I am amazed at how well it works.

A PC would be a PITA to use compared to Roku. As far as an Xbox goes, it is a great experience but you have to be an Xbox Live Gold subscriber to use it. I currently have a second Xbox which does have a Live Gold subscription for such a purpose, but when it expires, I'm getting a Roku or a BR player w/built-in Netflix to replace it. It is a waste of money to subscribe to XBL just for Netflix streaming when the low-end Roku is just a few dollars more than the XBL subscription.

 

[wirednuts]

i also think roku is the best it gets for netflix. i mean a full blown htpc is best, but price, power usage and size becomes a major factor when all you really want is netflix.

 

[Syringer]

Do you have a bluray player?

My parents have one of these: http://www.avindemand.com/index.php/bd-c5900.html

Which doubles up as an internet streaming station, like a Roku..it works great.

 

[RaiderJ]

I picked up two WD Live Plus boxes for Christmas because of a special that was running (two for $95). Only gave one out as a gift. If you want the second, I'll sell it for $55 shipped. Also have a N wireless adapter for it - $12 if you were to want that with it.

It works great for streaming Netflix (and other media too). I personally use an HTPC for Netflix, but for simplicity the WD boxes can't be beat.

 

[kornphlake]

Do you have a bluray player?

My parents have one of these: http://www.avindemand.com/index.php/bd-c5900.html

Which doubles up as an internet streaming station, like a Roku..it works great.

We just bought a samsung blue-ray player at costco for about $100, we don't have any blue ray discs yet, but watched a movie on netflix last night. There are lesser quality brands that offer netflix streaming for closer to $75. For a couple dollars more than a roku or wdtv, a blue ray player that streams netflix seems like a more useful appliance since it can play blue ray discs as well.

 

[Tristicus]

Get a PS3. Blu-ray player, game system, excellent streaming device for all content including netflix.