Roku LT Review

The Roku LT is the newest Roku box, released in November.  Unlike other Roku boxes it's design is unique, specifically in color, to recognize it as the budget-friendly.  As a brand, it started as the first device to deliver video from Netflix instantly to TV.  Since then it has evolved, covering more sources of internet streaming media to compete against new competion, e.g., Xbox or PS3.  It is marketed for its simplicity; Power cord and the output cord (either to HDMI or A/V) is all that is needed.  This review will go over what you get with the $50 device.

Hardware

After an update of the line, Roku boxes are now smaller then ever, measuring 3 x 3 x 0.9 inches of plastic.  The box itself includes a HDMI port, 3.5 mm port for A/V out, and power port.  It’s solid purple color and Roku tag makes this box stand out, as you can see in the following picture.  Other then the box and cords you receive a remote control, the most underestimated piece.  If you are like me, you will find yourself surpised on how much a remote helps the experience when watching online videos.

 

Software

Roku has travelled a long way since it’s Netflix-only days.  We see services like Hulu Plus, Pandora, and Crackle in it’s channel store.  All tend to follow a theme in design, supporting the use of the Roku remote.

Setup

Setup was fairly easy, as there is only one cord to connect to the TV.  You will be directed by on-screen instructions to connect to WiFi, activate your device, create a Roku account (which requires payment method/information), and install a few starter channels, which is how you will view media.  Services requring accounts usually ask you to enter a code on their website to verify the login, or log in directly from the device, which can be a pain when using an on-screen keyboard with your remote control.

Performance

 Loading times can vary among channels, but you will rarely, if ever be interupted by buffering.  Sometimes streaming takes a few moments to adapt, as it does online, so I will not complain.  With the Roku LT you will recieve 720p video quality, accompanied with decent audio.  In other words, it’s got more punch then it appears.

End

Overall the Roku LT is a solid device that does what it is asked for.  It’s small, simple, and hard to resist when you are a subscriber of Netlfix or Hulu Plus, especially when you have $50 to spend.  I recommend this device to anyone who has no alternatives, as it does no more then its competition with the major streaming services.  I see this as the best Roku to buy.  It’s cheaper and gives back the same as any Roku device.  Sure, others run 1080p, but I rarely find streaming videos at quality higher then 720p.

TechWilling