November 15, 2010, 10:51 AM — Time was the only way you could access Netflix's Watch Instantly feature was on a Windows PC. Now you only need to watch on a computer (Intel Macs included) if you want to. There are now many different ways to enjoy streaming Netflix content where you really want to see it--on your TV.
Each of the options has different strengths--including cost, video quality, and convenience. There's one big difference among all these: The user interface is different from device to device, so the elegant view you see on Apple TV won't be the same one you find on a internet-connected DVD player, for example.
Which one is best for you? Check out your options below.
1. Streaming video players
For a while, Roku's streaming player was the only stand-alone device you could use to get Netflix onto your TV. Now it's just one of a handful of video players that can do so, including high-profile additions like the new Apple TV ( Macworld rated 4 out of 5 mice )--with a custom Netflix interface--the Seagate FreeAgent GoFlex TV HD Media Player ( Macworld rated 3 out of 5 mice ), and Western Digital's WD TV Live Plus ( Macworld rated 4 out of 5 mice ). These devices specialize in streaming content, and they do the job well--though as more networked Blu-ray players and TVs enter the market, the future of set top boxes that only stream content may be in jeopardy. Many of the streamers, such as Roku's XD and XDS models, support 1080p streaming--Apple TV can only output 720p--but Netflix doesn't offer any content in 1080p resolution, and probably won't for a long time due to bandwidth realities. And some players also offer component video output--useful if you're already using all your TV's HDMI inputs and don't want to invest in an HDMI switcher.
2. Game consoles
Talk about a multifunction device--you can use your game console to stream the movie Iron Man 2 and then play the game when you're done. Sony's Playstation 3, Nintendo's Wii, and Microsoft's Xbox 360 all offer Netflix streaming. The PS3 and Wii recently went disc-free--previously you had to run a disc with the Netflix software on it to watch content. Not all are equal though: for example, the Xbox requires an Xbox Live Gold membership in addition to a Netflix subscription, and the Wii can't display high-definition video. If you're looking for the ultimate in high definition, PS3 now offers 1080p streaming for video that supports it (again, not an issue for Netflix streaming).
3. Networked HDTVs
These days, TVs are all about a different kind of network--connecting to the Internet for streaming content, not the old broadcast networks. Sony, Samsung, Panasonic, Vizio, LG, and others all offer Internet-connected televisions in various sizes. Connect your set to your router via WiFi or ethernet and you have access to your Netflix queue without the need for any additional devices. However, since the main purpose of the TV isn't being a Netflix steaming interface, you may find the interfaces less intuitive than dedicated devices.
4. Networked Blu-ray players
Many Blu-ray players--often from the same vendors that make HDTVs--run the same software that networked TVs do. With Blu-ray player prices coming down, they can be an affordable and convenient way to add Netflix to your TV. If you were planning to buy a Blu-ray player this year, you might as well get one that can handle Netflix, too. The same caveat about interfaces applies as with TVs.
5. iOS devices
