WTB: cheap Netflix/Plex box (Fire TV or Roku?)

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lookout

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Master Geek
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Topic # 242354 24-Oct-2018 06:53

Hi all,

Looking for a cheap device for the bedroom tv to run Netflix and Plex. Chromecast is not an option.

Thinking probably a Roku or Fire TV. Or even a Mi Box if the price is right.

Nothing flash, don’t need 4K. Looking at spending $40-$50ish.

Cheers!

michaelmurfy

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Reply # 2113029 24-Oct-2018 07:27

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Why is the Chromecast not an option? It'll be perfect for the bedroom.

Michael Murphy | https://murfy.nz
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nzlegs

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Master Geek
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Reply # 2113052 24-Oct-2018 08:39

michaelmurfy:
Why is the Chromecast not an option? It'll be perfect for the bedroom.

All that is required is an HDMI input port on the TV set, chromecast devices new though are about $60 from avariety of retail outlets.

nzlegs

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Master Geek
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Reply # 2113057 24-Oct-2018 08:51

nzlegs:
michaelmurfy:
Why is the Chromecast not an option? It'll be perfect for the bedroom.

All that is required is an HDMI input port on the TV set, chromecast devices new though are about $60 from avariety of retail outlets.

I do keep forgetting the device to 'cast'from is also required. This can be your mobile smartphone or a tablet.
I am so used to having them around, they are a 'remote control' for selecting the program to watch.

rb99

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Reply # 2113072 24-Oct-2018 09:04

There's a new fire tv stick coming out soon, maybe worth a look at. Roku obviously less amazon focused though.

rb99

Lias

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Reply # 2113108 24-Oct-2018 09:19

Just to tail on OP's request, I'm also looking for something similar.

I have an old WD TV Live that I use with USB drives and DLNA. It's getting a bit long in the tooth now, doesn't support Plex, and fails to correctly play audio on many newer downloads, so looking at a replacement.

My requirements:

Must be Plex compatible.
Comes with a remote.
Must not require an external device
Intuitive/easy to use interface (mostly used by younger school age kids).
Native YouTube support would be great.
Strongly prefer wired Ethernet to WiFi, but isn't an absolute deal breaker.
Accessing content from DLNA, SMB shares, and USB drives would be good but again isn't a deal breaker if missing.
Doesn't need to be 4k, currently being used with an old 720p TV but 1080p would be good as that TV is getting on and won't last forever.

Have at me people :-)

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rb99

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Reply # 2113115 24-Oct-2018 09:31

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Just a few comments. We do most of what you want with a couple of fire tv boxes - the older 2nd gen that have built in Ethernet. Not sure about YouTube, Google and Amazon were 'having words' and you might have to do that through a browser. FTV sticks can have Ethernet with an adapter. Personally I use Emby and that's fine for streaming from the main PC, presume Plex is the same. Haven't had a Roku so can't really comment except and mentioned, less pushing of Amazon Prime, and I presume YouTube would be easier.

rb99

lookout

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Reply # 2113129 24-Oct-2018 10:01

michaelmurfy:

Why is the Chromecast not an option? It'll be perfect for the bedroom.

It will be mostly used by the kids so it needs to have a remote.

kobiak

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Reply # 2113130 24-Oct-2018 10:01

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I just can't fail my xiaomi tv box (in-build chromecast). if you're using it for netflix + youtube, nothing else is required. it's the most budget and feature rich product. under $100 you get the most out of it. can install any app from google play, that is available for android tv

it's fast and reliable. runs on android 8 at the moment. supports voice search and google assistant.

My set-up:

- 1 media content server with plex on it.
- 1 xiaomi box in bedroom with plex, netflix, youtube, kodi, etc connected over wifi, super easy to use
- 1 tcl tv in lounger with plex, netflix, youtube, kodi, etc connected over Ethernet for 4k shows :) + google home to start casting when I don't feel like touching the remote :)

I don't like the idea just to have chromecast, yes it's easy to cast from phone, tablet, but I want to use my phone. or run away and other people to carry on watching whatever they watch.

I even have spotify installed to run morning playlist on telly :)

helping others at evgenyk.nz