Best Multimedia Streaming Boxes

The best multimedia streaming boxes allow users to watch their favorite shows from popular services such as Netflix, Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime, playback recorded DVR shows and in some cases even stream your mobile devices photos, videos and music directly to their boxes.

Slingbox 500 – Stream Your Favorite Shows To PCs, Tablets And Connected TVs

I have been a huge fan of the SlingMedia players since they arrived on the open market and the Slingbox 500 is by far my favorite of the company’s devices. The Slingbox 500 allows users to effortlessly connect their Macs, PCs, tablets and internet connected TVs to the player.

Once connected to the users DVR, cable set-top box or satellite receiver via HDMI and component or composite sources users can archive video and photos and then enjoy them from anywhere.

The Slingbox 500 features built in Wi-Fi which makes hooking it up a breeze and its 1080p high definition setup makes it simple to connect.

I love the ability to record shows at home on my DVR and then access them when traveling for business and the software for my tablet and notebook used for travel makes it simple for me to catch my favorite TV shows and sporting events when I’m not at home.

The Slingbox isn’t cheap at $299 but it’s well worth the price.

Roku 2 XS – Delivering Your Favorite Streaming Services In High-Def

The Roku 2 XS made our list of best multimedia streaming boxes because it will fit in the palm of your hands and delivery 1080p high-definition (if the streaming service provides 1080p) over an Extended-range Wireless connection. While the device is small it is also powerful, offering an HDMI port for full HD support.

Roku provides users with over 500 channels of entertainment and it connects to some of the world’s most popular streaming services including Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon Prime Video and even the popular music streaming service Pandora.

For people like me who have ditched cable the ability to purchase or receive free news channels is also a big plus.

The Roku 2 XS also features a motion control and comes with a free copy of Angry Birds. Other games are available for purchase through the Roku store.

If you want to stream popular services, play games and ultimately have a device that is sleek and hidden this is a great option.

Priced at just $99 this streaming multimedia box is definitely a device worth checking out.

 Apple TV – Sleek Interface, Plenty of Features and the Promise of the Future

If you’re a fan of Roke products the Apple TV is a must have gadget. Much like Roku the platform supports popular services such as Hulu Plus, Netflix and MLB.TV as well as other services.

I personally like the ability to stream music, videos and photos directly from iOS devices via AirPlay. Appel TV also offers Web video streaming servicse.

One unique advantage that the Apple TV has over its competitors is a built in power supply which means no need for an AC adapter such as the one found on the Roku 2 XS.

Throw in iTunes download support for your favorite TV shows and Movies and its easy to see why the Apple TV is such a big win.

Apple TV can be yours for just $99.

Whatever device you decide to choose these days you have many options that take the power of cable and place it on all of your device and for that reason I suggest any of the best multimedia streaming boxes listed above.

[Images via Apple, Zatz Not Funny, and Wired]