Roku XDS (2100X)

Roku XDS (2100X)

Editors' rating: 3.5 out of 5

The good: Affordable sub-$100 price tag; ultrasmall factor; streams a variety of Internet video and audio services, including Netflix, Amazon, Pandora, Major League Baseball games, and Mediafly podcasts; built-in Wi-Fi, including dual-band 802.11n in highest-end model; works with all TVs, including non-HD models; upgradable firmware allows for periodic update of content and features; good HD video quality (on channels and programming that support it).

The bad: Ever cheaper Blu-ray players offer many of the same Internet-viewing options plus disc playback; video quality varies from channel to channel, depending upon provider and source material; setup and content queues usually require at least some PC interaction; yet another box under the TV; currently offers no access to PC- and USB-based media; lacks support for Hulu Plus and YouTube.

The bottom line: If you don't need compatibility with iTunes, Roku's trio of ultra-affordable video boxes offers a wider range of streaming video and audio providers than you'll find on Apple TV.

Read CNET's full review
Price: $99.99