Video Players and Recorders

The Bottom Line: The Sony BDP-N460's attractive mix of Blu-ray performance, relatively low price, and streaming media options--including Netflix--make it a solid midrange pick, despite some missing features.

Specs: Blu-Ray disc player, Tabletop, Universal remote control, Stereo, 4.6 lbs

The Bottom Line: New content channels and faster Wi-Fi make the Roku HD XR Player a good choice for anyone who wants a quick and easy way to add Netflix--and a variety of other Internet media channels--to any TV.

Specs: Digital multimedia receiver, Remote control

The Bottom Line: It's hard to say if the Chumby One works better as an alarm clock, a photo frame, a news reader, or as an Internet radio, but for around $100, it's a great value in any incarnation.

Specs: Digital multimedia receiver

The Bottom Line: If you don't already own an Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3 and are serious about networked streaming, the WD TV Live is probably one of your best choices for getting content to your TV.

Specs: Digital multimedia receiver, Stereo, Remote control

The Bottom Line: The addition of HDMI output, network streaming, and improved file compatibility makes the Seagate FreeAgent Theater+ media player a better value than its predecessor.

Specs: Stereo, Remote control

The Bottom Line: The addition of HDMI output, network streaming, and improved file compatibility makes the Seagate FreeAgent Theater+ media player a better value than its predecessor.

Specs: Stereo, Remote control

The Bottom Line: The Netgear Digital Entertainer Live is an easy-to-use networked digital media streamer in a small package.

The Bottom Line: The Oppo BDP-83 is an outstanding universal disc player with excellent performance on Blu-rays and DVDs and lightning-fast operational speed, but most home theater fans will balk at the high price.

Specs: Blu-Ray disc player, Tabletop, Remote control, DTS decoder, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS-HD High Resolution, Surround Sound, 11.2 lbs

The Bottom Line: With a smaller design, more energy-efficient operation, lower price tag, and built-in Blu-ray and multimedia capabilities, the PS3 Slim delivers a compelling package for an affordable price.

Specs: Sony PlayStation 3 Slim - Game console, BD-ROM, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, Cell Broadband Engine, 256 MB - Integrated, 1920 x 1080

The Bottom Line: The Sony Bravia Internet Video Link (DMX-NV1) will stream Web video and Amazon Video On Demand to your Bravia HDTV, but its slow interface and limited content options will have you looking at alternatives.

Specs: Digital multimedia receiver