Netflix-compatible video devices compared
(Credit:
LG)
Netflix has been on a roll in 2009, adding its Internet streaming video-on-demand service to an ever expanding list of devices. In just the past few weeks, the big news has been the imminent arrival of Netflix streaming on the PlayStation 3, along with more rumors that it will be coming to the Wii as well. Best Buy's Insignia brand has debuted a Netflix-capable Blu-ray player that lists for $149 (and has already been seen on sale for as little as $99). And Roku has delivered two new versions of its mini set-top box, lowering the entry-level price to just $80 for the non-HD version. That's in addition to Netflix's availability on the Xbox 360, TiVo DVRs, and Blu-ray players from LG and Samsung, and an increasing number of TVs.
With those notable changes in the Netflix landscape, we thought it was a good time to update our overview on Netflix streaming. (A recap follows, for the uninitiated; the Netflix-savvy can jump straight to the list of Netflix-compatible products.)
Netflix offers a library of 12,000-plus streaming titles over the Internet, available on an "all you can eat" basis for any customer on the $9 per month (one DVD movie by mail at a time) or higher plan. So, in addition to getting DVD (or, for an additional premium, Blu-ray) discs by mail, Netflix subscribers also get unlimited access to thousands of hours of on-demand programming. Just add the titles to the "Instant Queue" in your Netflix account, and they'll be available on any compatible device once you pair it. (The setup procedure, as outlined by CNET's Molly Wood, is quick and easy.)
There are a few downsides. Almost none of the available movie content would be classified in the "new release" category--the newest titles are usually at least a few years old. Also, the availability of titles ebbs and flows--many are available for a window of 60 to 90 days, after which they may or may not return a few months later. And many of the videos aren't available in their native wide-screen format. Also, you have to manipulate your queue from a PC browser. Aside from a list of new and notable titles, you can't search the available offerings and pick new selections that aren't already in your queue.
That said, we think the advantages are palpable. Netflix's TV selection offers a wide array of more recent choices than its movie slate, including some CBS shows that appear within a week of their initial broadcast (disclosure: CNET is a property of CBS). Netflix has also begun offering a small but growing slate of streaming content in HD. Video quality is generally good, and selections start playing within 30 seconds. They will also auto-resume wherever you left off, even if you move to another device. (You can have multiple Netflix devices on each account, and you can also stream to Web browsers on Macs and Windows PCs.)
But the bottom line is that Netflix streaming is just a great value proposition. For those who are already Netflix subscribers, the streaming feature is effectively a free upgrade--one that can offer hundreds of hours of programming a month. By contrast, the same monthly fee (as little as $9) would only get you a handful of movies or TV episodes on rival pay-per-view services, such as Apple's iTunes (Apple TV), Vudu, CinemaNow, Blockbuster, and Amazon Video-on-Demand. (That said, note that some or all of the latter four services are available in tandem with Netflix on some of the devices profiled below--so it's not an either/or proposition.)
As 2009 winds down, the list of Netflix-compatible devices continues to expand. We've rounded up all the current product choices, and will keep this list up to date as needed. Prices listed are the current street prices.
Netflix the quick and easy way:
Roku Player ($80-130)
The "Roku box" was the first Netflix streaming device to hit the market, and--in many ways--it's still the best. The original model, the $100 Roku HD, has recently been joined by an $80 step-down model (the Roku SD, which doesn't offer HD output) and a $130 step-up model, the Roku HD XR (which offers faster 802.11n Wi-Fi and a USB port for future expansion). Built-in Wi-Fi means you can connect it with just two cables--power and HDMI--though the little box has all of the AV connections you'll need to connect it even to older (non-HD) TVs. And unlike when it first launched, the Roku does more than Netflix now. Recent firmware upgrades have added access to Amazon Video-on-Demand content (pay-per-view) and Major League Baseball games (subscription required), and by the end of the year, additional online "channels" will be available as well.
Netflix-enabled game consoles:
Microsoft Xbox 360 ($300 plus Xbox Live Gold subscription)
Since November 2008, the Xbox 360 has been Netflix-enabled. But there are caveats: Netflix only works with 360s that have a storage option (owners of the entry-level 360 will need to add a hard drive or at least a memory card), it only works for 360 owners with Xbox Live Gold memberships (which run around $50 a year), and the 360 doesn't have built-in Wi-Fi (you'll need to go Ethernet or buy an expensive adapter). But if you've already got a 360, there's probably no need to pick up the Roku box.
Sony PlayStation 3 ($300)
Previously, PS3 owners had to use a third-party software package called PlayOn to get Netflix (and Hulu) on their game console, which required leaving a PC powered up elsewhere on your home network. But by the end of November, the PS3 will officially support Netflix. The one catch: for the time being, you'll need to use a special Blu-ray disc (available for free from Netflix) to enable streaming. On the bright side, though, you don't need to pay an additional Xbox Live-style fee.
Nintendo Wii ($200)
The Wii does not officially support Netflix streaming. But rumors persist that it will soon, thanks to the same sort of disc-based workaround that's coming to the PS3. Only time will tell--but such an arrangement could expand the Netflix user base by millions.
Netflix-enabled DVRs:
TiVo HD DVR ($250 plus service)
TiVo HD XL DVR ($600 plus service)
Any of the Series3/HD TiVos can be paired to a Netflix account. And TiVo also offers Amazon and YouTube streaming (in addition to a host of other online content choices), making it the closest thing to a digital video Swiss Army Knife to date.
Digeo Moxi DVR ($800)
Like the PS3, Moxi isn't an "official" Netflix partner, but--following an April 2009 software revamp--it works just as well with the PlayOn software as the Sony game console. Currently, Digeo is offering free subscription keys for Moxi owners.
Netflix-enabled Blu-ray players:
Insignia NS-BRDVD3 ($150)
Insignia NS-WBRDVD ($200)
LG BD370 ($250)
LG BD390 ($400)
Samsung BD-P1600 ($250)
Samsung BD-P3600 ($350)
Samsung BD-P4600 ($400)
Sony BDP-N460 ($250)
Every 2009 Blu-ray player from LG and Samsung offers Netflix compatibility, giving those companies a big leg up on competitors such as Sony and Panasonic (both currently Netflix-less). If you don't have a wired Ethernet connection near your TV--and you don't want to invest in a pair of powerline Ethernet adapters--you'll probably want to go with one of the higher-end models that include Wi-Fi (either built-in or with a USB dongle). We found the LG BD390 to be the best choice--it also offers access to YouTube videos, Vudu streaming, and other digital files (photos, music, and videos) on your home network.
New to the Netflix party is Best Buy's in-house brand, Insignia. The NS-BRDVD3 has been seen on sale for as little as $99, making it a compelling alternatives to the discless Roku boxes. The more expensive Insignia NS-WBRDVD adds built-in Wi-Fi. Meanwhile, Sony's new BDP-N460 is Netflix-enabled as well.
Netflix-enabled home theater systems:
LG LHB953 ($500)
LG LHB977 ($600)
Samsung HT-BD1250 ($550)
Samsung HT-BD7200
($800)
Samsung HT-BD8200
($750)
As with their standalone Blu-ray players, LG and Samsung have also built Netfix compatibility into their 2009 Blu-ray home theater systems. We haven't reviewed any of these systems yet, but we expect the Netflix functionality to be identical to what's found in the company's respective Blu-ray players. None of these models have built-in Wi-Fi, however. Samsung offers a Wi-Fi dongle for $80, while the LG models will need a powerline Ethernet adapter or wireless bridge if you don't have a nearby Ethernet jack.
Netflix-enabled TVs:
LG LH50 LCD TVs (pictured at top of this post)
LG PS80 plasma TVs
Sony KDL-W5100 LCD TVs (Netflix coming fall 2009)
Sony KDL-Z5100 LCD TVs (Netflix coming fall 2009)
Sony KDL-XBR9 LCD TVs (Netflix coming fall 2009)
Vizio VF552XVT LCD TV (coming fall 2009/winter 2010)
An increasing number of TVs are coming equipped with a wide variety of online-enabled features, and Netflix is one of the premier offerings. LG's "NetCast" TVs are available now, and Sony's Bravia Internet Internet Link-enabled models will get a firmware update to add Netflix later this fall. Also on the horizon is Vizio's VF552XVT, which includes built-in Wi-Fi and a Bluetooth remote (with QWERTY keyboard).
Netflix on your PC:
It's worth mentioning that any Mac (Intel-based) or Windows PC (XP/Vista/7) with a decent video capabilities can access Netflix streaming directly through a Web browser. Connect a TV to your PC's video output, and you can enjoy Netflix streaming--and any other Web-based video--without the need to buy additional hardware. It's a choice that some find compelling enough to ditch their cable or satellite TV service altogether.
Additional reading:
Dreaming of cutting the subscription TV cord
You don't need satellite TV when times get tough
Editors' note: Since its original publication on May 29, 2009, this story has been updated to reflect the availability of new Netflix-enabled products.
John P. Falcone covers home theater and network entertainment products. He's been writing for CNET since 2002. 
To download MyTVPAL's free PC Player version of it's IPTV service please go to www.mytvpal.com .
Also keep in mind that microsoft who at the end of the day is using Netflix as a mean's to an end will most likely dump them in favor of their own service or commit codec suicide by being forced to switch to H.264 downloads, and kill the use of it's WMV codec, just like Sony killed it's HD-DVD format.
Your comments are appreciated
Dave Brunner
Also, you might want to do some editing on your site. Some of it reads like Engrish.
On another note, the PlayOn software is pretty cool. It's got some quirks, but is definitely worth $15 just to be able to stream Hulu.
I nice alternative is if you have a laptop with an HDMI out. We have a HP with one and we use that with the bedroom TV and works pretty good too.
The PS3 will also play Pandora via a browser, a wide variety of media files on it or computers it can see on a network, and of course Blu-Ray all with minimal set up. I have no idea why you'd buy a different $350 or $400 device unless you hate the idea of having a game console in your house. The DirecTV HD DVRs and PlayOn are actually the true way to do most of this on the cheap as long as you have their service. They gave me a deal for about $110 on another one this week and brought it to my house the next day. How about that!
You didn't even mention the most obvious. It's now available on Vista Media Center (VMC).
It's the best thing they could have done.
Personally, I think the vast majority of viewers really want to avoid connecting a PC to their TV--though it is undoubtedly the solution that gives the most flexibility for viewing Web-based video.
However what's sad about Netflix on Media Center is that it doesn't work through Media Center Extenders. This means 360 users still have to go to the main menu to get to Netflix. One of these days M$ will get it right won't they?
Regardless, I find my Netflix DVD's collecting dust much of the time while I scroll through the streamed offerings. I felt bad for finally watching/returning a DVD movie I've had from them since February!! Streaming video doesn't have a enormous selection, but as a free bonus for owning an XBOX and being a Netflix subscriber, you really can't complain!
I use normal 1.5mbs cable internet ( $29 a month for first year or if you threaten to cancel, lol)
and the Netflix Roku ($99 device) picks up my wireless router connection all the way in the livingroom across entire apt, shows 4 dots (highest connection quality) and since I bought it have yet to experience one instance of any Netflix streaming movie problem whatsover. Sometimes, I pause a movie and return 3 days later and hit unpause and the movie starts playing were I left off in less than 30 seconds with not a glitch the rest of the movie.
How many dots do you get on netflix connection screen, there is 1 to 4, that determines your internet speed and the quality netflix will send movie thru at.
Good Luck, i know what you mean about DVD's, I still have a 3 a month account with netflix but am so happy with them I feel bad paying them less! It's only like $14 total a month, and i can get the newest DVD releases that way!
Back when VHS rentals were all the rage, the average new release cost the store around $100 to buy, and the cost to rent that new VHS release was $2. The average DVD now costs around $20 new. The rental fee is around $5. Wow- 25% of the purchase price to rent it. Plus they break up boxed sets and rent each disk separately, bringing the rental cost close to the purchase price in many instances. Many stores also charge late fees even if you're 10 minutes late bringing it back. Add in the inconvenience of having to drive there and back with the high gas prices, and it just isn't worth it anymore. Good riddance to them.
I already use Hulu, and I am planning on getting a Netflix capable device. The handwriting is on the wall for video delivery, and it ain't brick and mortar stores or even cable anymore. Netflix streaming does have it's problems, but it is in it's infancy and it will only get better. The numbers speak for themselves. Netflix is not being hurt by the recession at all. That should tell you something.
Why not sat or cable??? Well the math is simple. With cable or sat you get all those channels BUT you may only watch 7-8 shows a week, your favs and rent the movies you want to see.. That is a hefty sticker for something not used a majority of the time.
Now days most shows are available the next day or so after their air date so ya can watch it when ya want to on line. <<< Usually for FREE..
Free cable DVR was nice 9 years ago when it was a $99 package deal, compared to buying a Tivo or Sat DVR.
But with yearly increases my cable cost was $170 a month, how much tv can you watch?
If that isn't greed, I don't know what is!
So like you, I got only internet now and free HD channels over the air, and watch whatever I want usually free online, easy cable to tv (no big deal) and like I said earlier, I have the $99 ROKU box which i love! And as many new releases as i can watch 3 at a time with Netflix for like $14 a month, they come in 1 day!! that is incredible.
So bye bye greedy cable company, you had your chance, instead of lowering the prices each year to keep more customers you raised them to the point you are now useless. Pure marketing failure 101, they'll teach it in schools in 100 years, LOL
We just went from crappy rabbit ear quality 480i tv to crystal clear video and audio streaming instantly on HD sets! It looks amazing currently on my 52" LCD TV using normal broadband internet and a Roku device. Sounds great too!
To me, this is a leaps and bounds increase in both options and quality. And for the first time in years of having to pay over $150 or more for cable, which their yearly rate increases like clockwork, I was able to cut the cord!
And now with just a simple roof antenna I get crystal clear HD and with my Netflix Roku device, ( costing me less then $50 total a month) I also get instant selection of thousands of commercial free movies! Also crystal clear, so what it's NOT 1080P, it's not 480i either, it is at least 480P (double the quality of regular tv) and also 720P, BIG IMPROVMENT!
Plus for that $50 it includes my normal internet usage and my free VOIP phone service!
So if you want to pay an extra $100 or more a month to brag you have 1080P (which even cable only has 1080i) be my guest.
But don't put down those who enjoy the EXCELLENT streaming quality offered by Netflix enabled devices.
Thank you
- by DanOsmena November 7, 2009 8:58 AM PST
- Anyone have a review of the new Roku XR one? Just wondering if maybe it would work well with my Samsung 52 1080p and home wifi internet. I've been cutting costs with the cable company with a buzz. But also buying a new Windows 7 desktop, then maybe move my the old HP Media Center PC as part of my Home Theather system, thus stream the Netflix Instant plug-in. Any comments on quality, or is it more hit or miss, like some antanae HD stations?
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