Cobalt
#1 YoFiend
Status:
Registered: Oct 04, 2009
Posts: 56160
Tue May 26, 2020 12:01 pm
Roku and Firesticks are the 2 dominant devices for converting any TV with HDMI inputs into a smart tv. They will also seriously extend the range of a Smart TV with a weak wifi antenna. These are devices loaded with software that allows people to select streaming services, just like the menus on smart TVs that do the same thing. These devices will also allow you to "purchase" access to some streaming services, directly through the device maker. You simply select the service and use your credit card to get access. I think this is where Jen is referring to the billing issues. A lot of these direct bill services have hidden stuff in the fine print that you agree to use them for a period or pay a penalty if you unsubscribe. They will kill you with cancellation fees and Roku gets stuck in the middle.
I have 3 Rokus and they all work great. I subscribe to Hulu Live, Netflix, and Disney. I activated all of these online, and then simply logged in through Roku. I don't bill anything through Roku. If I can't access my account via the web, I won't trust the steaming thieves and their hidden charges. Roku is rock solid from my experience. Sometimes I have internet hiccups from my cable company, but that is not my Roku's fault. I've yet to experience a single problem with any of my Roku devices.
My brother uses Firesticks and has had a great experience with those as well.
