3 Apple TV alternatives
Apple recently released its Apple TV update. But instead of wowing fanboys with new features, the update left plenty to be desired. If you are an Apple TV owner and want to upgrade to a different set-top box provider, here are some suggestions:
Roku
Roku offers four different kinds of set-top boxes that cater to your needs. Though the Roku 3 remains as its flagship product, its old set-top boxes have been given a breath of new life with new features and functionality. All the Rokus now sport a similar look as the Roku 3, but the major changes happened in the Roku 1 as it now supports 1080p videos, which makes it the cheapest set-top box to support full HD.
The Roku 2, aside from the new look, now has the popular remote with headphone jack and dual-band wireless reception for a stutter-free video playback. Aside from that, Roku signed a new partnership with M-GO which lets users easily browse and purchase content directly from the service. The revamped Rokus are now available for purchase.
Vizio
Vizio offers two set-top boxes, the Co-Star and the Co-Star LT. The Co-Star runs on Google TV which allows users to easily purchase content from Google Play. It uses Wi-Fi for internet access, supports full web browser with HTML5 and has a Bluetooth universal touchpad remote with keyboard.
The Co-Star LT doesn’t run on Google TV but it still supports 720p, 1080p Full HD, 3D content and advanced HTML5. It also has built-in WiFi for wireless internet connectivity, a streamlined remote that allows instant access for popular apps.
Chromecast
This is not your typical set-top box as it is not a box; it’s just a plug-in device with the goodness of a set-top box. When Chromecast launched, it only offered content from Netflix, YouTube and Google Play with promises of more content to come. And now it offers content from Hulu, allowing users with the Hulu Plus apps to control content right on their Android or iOS device. Still, what Chromecast offers is minute compared to Roku.
But, considering how Google created a streaming device which only measures as big as a thumb drive, you have to give the search giant some credit. And because you are only purchasing the device, your laptop, tablet or smartphones acts as the remote. Also, it is quite affordable at $35.
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