Roku Adds $79 Streaming Netflix Player

Step-up HD-XR has upgraded WiFi and USB 2.0 port for $130.

Oct
27

By Steve Crowe
Filed in: News, Product News, Video Sources, Digital Media
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10.27.2009 — Roku is adding two set-top boxes and new content channels in the coming weeks.

The step-up Roku HD-XR ($130) and Roku SD ($79) will join the popular Roku HD Player.

The Roku HD-XR, like the Roku HD, features 720p HD playback, optical audio output and HDMI connection. However, the Roku HD-XR has upgraded the WiFi to b/g/n and added a USB 2.0 port, which Roku says there currently is no use for.

The Roku SD loses the HD outputs of the other two models, offering basic WiFi and analog connectivity.

The two new models will have the same look as the existing Roku HD Player, which will continue to be sold for $100.

The three players currently offer three content channels: Netflix, Amazon Video On Demand, and MLB.TV. However, Roku is launching the Roku Channel Store in November that will expand the content options, including some free content.

Check out the comparison chart below for the features on all three Roku players. Click here to compare the products on Roku’s Web site.

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Steve Crowe, Web Editor

Steve is an editor for cepro.com. He graduated from Emerson College with a B.A. in Journalism. He joined the CE Pro staff in 2008. Steve is also a freelance sports writer for The Boston Globe and other various publications.

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