Roku LT
Manufacturer: Roku Part number: 2400D
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Roku LT is a killer streaming-media box, offering tons of streaming video content, including favorites like Netflix, Amazon Instant, Hulu Plus, and Pandora, for just $50.
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Where to buy
| store | customer rating | inventory | tax & shipping | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  | In stock | Enter zip code to get total price: Price +Tax +Shipping =Total price | as of 05/22/2012 |
CNET editors' review
Roku LT price range: $79.99
- Reviewed by: Matthew Moskovciak
- Edited by: John P. Falcone
- Reviewed on: 11/04/2011
- Updated on:05/16/2012
- Released on: 11/07/2011
The good: The Roku LT is an extremely small Wi-Fi streaming-media box that costs only $50. It offers dozens of streaming video and audio services, including Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon Instant Video, HBO Go, Pandora, MOG, Rdio, and MLB.TV. PC- and Mac-based media can be streamed via the Plex app. It also supports older TVs using an included breakout cable.
The bad: The Roku LT currently lacks Vudu and YouTube channels, which are found on most competing products. There's also no Ethernet port, so you'll need a solid Wi-Fi signal in your home theater.
The bottom line: The Roku LT is a killer streaming-media box, offering tons of streaming video content, including favorites like Netflix, Amazon Instant, Hulu Plus, and Pandora, for just $50.
Editors' note (May 16, 2012): The Roku LT reviewed here is frequently out of stock, so it often appears to be priced higher than its $49.99 list price. If that's the case, check out the nearly identical Roku HD instead, which retails for just $10 more.
Here's how you know the Roku LT is a great product: it's both the cheapest and one of the best streaming-video boxes we've tested. Roku has managed to shave the price all the way down to $50, jettisoning unnecessary features, while keeping all of the streaming content that we love.
The Roku LT supports the same list of channels as Roku's more expensive models, including Netflix, Amazon Instant, Hulu Plus, Pandora, MLB.TV, MOG, Rdio, and HBO Go, along with tons of additional niche content. We even like the remote control better than the one that comes with the Roku 2 XS, with a simpler layout and fingerprint-resistant matte finish.
The Roku LT isn't perfect. It's not the right choice if you want to stream your personal media collection and unlike other Roku boxes it doesn't even make a half-hearted effort at gaming. And there's still an argument to be made for Apple fans to favor the Apple TV, since it works so well with other Apple products. But at $50, the Roku LT deserves a very strong recommendation and is sure to be a hit this holiday season.
Design
Like the more expensive Roku 2 boxes, the LT is a tiny box, even smaller than the Apple TV. There's nothing on the front, save for a small dim light that lets you know it's on. The LT has a distinctive purple color, but we prefer the more muted black cases of Roku's other models.
Around back, there's just an HDMI output and a minijack output for the included breakout video cable, so you can use the Roku with older TVs. If you want additional connectivity--like an Ethernet port, SD card slot, or USB port--have a look at the step-up Roku 2 line of players, but we think most of those features aren't needed. (The USB playback of the Roku 2 XS isn't its biggest strength, and we can live without its small collection of casual games as well.)
The LT has built-in 802.11n Wi-Fi for connecting to the Internet, and while it's not dual-band like the old Roku XDS, we didn't run into any performance issues.
The remote is delightfully simple. There's a directional pad with an OK button in the center, some basic playback buttons, plus home and back. The asterisk button on the bottom generally brings up more options, although we could never quite be sure what we were going to get when we pressed it.
Overall, as we said, we like the Roku LT's clicker even more than the flagship Roku 2 XS' remote, which has a slightly more cluttered layout and is a magnet for fingerprints. (Note: future Roku models will include an additional button that offers one-click access to Pandora, but our unit came with the older remote.)
Setup is straightforward and relatively easy. The only real annoyance is that you'll need to create a Roku account, which involves entering your credit card information or linking to a PayPal account, so you can purchase premium channels. Virtually every channel we're interested in is free (or billed separately, through the channel provider), so we'd prefer it if the credit card step were optional.
You'll also need to link your Roku box to each individual streaming service, which generally involves entering an activation code on a Web site, so expect to spend some time in front of your TV with a laptop.
Content and user interface
The home screen has a basic interface, with a horizontal row of channels to choose from. The Roku LT comes preloaded with the most important channels: Netflix, Amazon Instant, Hulu Plus, and Pandora. The first three are an outstanding trio for cable-cutters, letting you mix and match subscription and pay-per-view content to catch up on your favorite TV shows.
The user interfaces for the major services are good, although we've seen better. Netflix here looks similar to the Sony PlayStation 3's Netflix interface, although fewer titles are visible on a single screen. Unlike on those very first Roku boxes, you can search through Netflix's streaming catalog, as well as browse titles that aren't in your instant queue. The new Rokus also support closed captioning on Netflix.
The Amazon Instant interface is reminiscent of last year's Netflix interface, with cover art laid out horizontally. It works, but it's not nearly as nice a browsing experience as you'll find with Vudu or Apple TV.
If you want more content, you'll go into the Channel Store. Here you'll find lots of excellent mainstream apps like HBO Go, MLB.TV, NHL GameCenter, Epix, Crackle, Picasa, Flicker, MOG, and Rdio, as well as more niche channels like TED Talks, Revision3, TWiT.TV, NASA, and CNET. You can see a full list on Roku's Web site.
The Channel Store itself is as overwhelming as the amount of content in it, presented as a huge grid of channels. The lack of a search function can make it annoying to track a specific app and even though there are filters, like "Most popular" and "Movies and TV," it's still easy to get a little lost as to what you're actually looking at. Luckily, once you add a channel it shows up on the home screen, and you can arrange home channels in whatever order you'd like.
There are also dozens of unofficial "private" channels built by third-party developers using standard Web tools. These include everything from quasilegal re-streams of Web and international video channels to adult content. They're accessible using special codes available online. But parents need not fret: password controls are available to ensure that only the Roku account owner can add channels. And, because you can add and delete channels as you see fit (more on that below), you see only the programming you want.
Check out the Roku Channel Database and Nowhere TV for a full list of Roku channels. Just be aware that some of the private channels are unsupported, so they could be shut off without notice.
We'd be remiss if we didn't point out the one puzzling omission from Roku's lineup: YouTube. That's not a big loss to us, as we find that the YouTube experience generally doesn't translate well in the home theater environment, but it's available on most competing devices. The good news is that a YouTube channel is apparently in development.
Image quality: Is 720p good enough?
No matter how many times we say 1080p doesn't matter, buyers still get worried when they see that the Roku LT "only" does 720p HD video. Again, we didn't find the lack of 1080p video to be noticeable using the Roku LT, even for HD streams from Netflix, Amazon Instant, and Hulu Plus.
Occasionally we'd notice some slight false contouring in the background, but it was minor even to our trained eyes. It's hard to imagine anyone complaining about how the BBC's "Sherlock" on Netflix looks on the Roku LT. Of course, excellent streaming-video image quality is dependent on the quality of your broadband connection as well as on the content itself.
The bottom line is that we don't think buyers should give weight to the lack of 1080p video much, if at all, when choosing a streaming video box.
Conclusion
The Roku LT succeeds because it strips away the features the other Roku 2 boxes don't do well. We never really cared about the gaming features on the Roku 2 XS or the limited digital media playback offered by the USB port. We'd rather save the extra money and still get access to all the great streaming content.
The toughest choice will likely be for those who own other Apple devices: is it worth spending double to get the $100 Apple TV? The advantages are AirPlay connectivity, a slightly more refined interface, and being able to stream your music, movies, and photos from a connected PC running iTunes. The disadvantage is that you get considerably fewer content sources, with the most glaring omission being Hulu Plus. For most buyers, the Roku LT is definitely the better value, although we'd feel more strongly about that if Roku added support for say, Amazon's Cloud music service, which would make the lack of local music streaming less important.
Unless you're committed to the Apple family of products, the Roku LT is the best value, and the box we'd recommend from Roku's lineup--and the best overall streaming-media device yet for mainstream viewers.
User reviews
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best device
by haggisbingo on November 5, 2011
Pros: does everything
Cons: none - and use RoksBox for streaming media from hard drives. works great
Summary: most do not need 1080p or will not see the difference. same with any wireless greater than what's on this device. don't waste money on needless features!!
Summary: most do not need 1080p or will not see the difference. same with any wireless greater than what's on this device. don't waste money on needless features!!
5 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Bullet proof way to connect your TV to the Internet.
by marcf1 on December 29, 2011
Pros: Hook-up is easy and operation is idiot proof.
Prooves the adage that size doesn't matter.Cons: No HDMI cable included.
Doesn't indicate that HBOGo will only work if your internet provider allows it - this means you are out of luck with Comcast.Summary: The ROKU is a wonderful product which generally delivers precisely what it promises in a compact and efficient package that is extremely easy to install.
I wish I could say ...Summary: The ROKU is a wonderful product which generally delivers precisely what it promises in a compact and efficient package that is extremely easy to install.
I wish I could say the same for the products and services provided to the public by most of the other participants in the cable/internet/media sector.
I pay over $250/mo for Comcast Triple Play (phone, internet and platinum cable). I also subscribe to both Netflix on demand and Netflix BluRay disc delivery. The problem that I share with many others is that we are forced to overpay the cable companies to obtain just a few channels that we want (HBO and Showtime for their series like Empire Boardwalk and Homeland - not for their studio movies) and ESPN (to receive essential sport programming no longer available through network TV). The other 95% of the channels go unused. Even those channels that have products of interest (e.g. Encore or HBO) cary 3 to 6 channels in standard definition which make them unwatchable and worthless to anyone used to high definition programming).
To make matters more attractive the cable companies began to beef up their Video on Demand services, which seems like a no-brainer way for them to keep consumers interested. But by virtue of either their fear that this usage will erode their live subscription base or because of contractual limitations placed on them, the VOD service is spotty to say the least. Instead of making every show available at all times, they ration out certain shows for limited periods of time. Sometimes the High Definition shows that they do make available are only viewable in standard definition - which makes no sense whatsoever.
Finally, HBO came out with a great solution with HBOGo. They would make every series or special, and many movies, available all of the time. If you missed the John Adams series a few years ago - it was available now. If you wanted to revisit the Sopranos - it was available now. I couldn't believe that a company had finally found the secret sauce to make sense out of the mess of inadequate and limited options generally available to viewers.
Of course it was too good to be true. You see, HBOGo is only available on your IPad or your computer (if you have an HBO subscription). It is not available directly through your cable provider. This of course is insanity personified. If I pay a substantial sum for my HBO subscription why should this valuable service be limited to just by "on the go" devices?
This brings me back to my ROKU purchase which was triggered by the fact that the CNET review revealed that the ROKU provided access to HBOGo. I rushed to the store, bought the ROKU, installed it without any problem and then began the process of selecting services. Of course, this also was too good to be true. The ROKU installation process revealed that Comcast did not authorize internet streaming access to HBOGo. Of course not - why would they do anything that made sense, would assure customer loyalty to both Comcast and HBO and, heaven forbid, provide a valuable service to their customers.
This experience has moved me every closer to pulling the plug on Comcast, HBO and all the other similar media providers. I simply don't understand why they take so many restrictive actions against the interests of their customers. I have a feeling many others share this view.4 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great for Netflix and Hulu,but not sure about the wifi.
by Richmond_Bill on December 12, 2011
Pros: Small, svelte unit. Took 4 minutes to set it up. Provides beautiful video pictures. Intuitive interface. Better than tivo premiere's Netflix menu.
Cons: Wifi signal. Even though the unit's network diagnostic stated that I had an "excellent" wifi signal, it kept disconnecting. This made it really difficult to watch a Columbo...I was always waiting for the disconnect.
Summary: If the network connection was more dependable, this would be a 5 star no-brainer. Great menus, terrific picture, awesome form factor, etc. Verdict: Buy the pricier model with the wired ...
Summary: If the network connection was more dependable, this would be a 5 star no-brainer. Great menus, terrific picture, awesome form factor, etc. Verdict: Buy the pricier model with the wired ethernet port.
3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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$50 says it all!
by Waam on November 5, 2011
Pros: All the best options are there, although really most of us only really need Netflix and Hulu Plus.
Cons: ESPN3 needs to come on board somehow. No streaming from your own collection could be turn off for many. I have downloaded seasons of my son's favorite cartoon shows not available from any service.
Summary: Still a great option for digital streaming starters, or people wanting to outfit a second TV in the house.
Summary: Still a great option for digital streaming starters, or people wanting to outfit a second TV in the house.
3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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simple device which works, enabling me to cut cable
by Univ_of_Ky on November 5, 2011
Pros: Wi-fi works seamlessly, inexpensive device for those who do not have Internet capable televisions, small footprint makes it unobtrusive.
Cons: Not a fan of the remote, a little too simple. Cannot connect to Hulu, must use Hulu Plus, which is an additional fee.
Summary: This was my first step into cutting the cable television connection. I have never looked back. I use this in conjunction with an digital antenna I built (look online for ...
Summary: This was my first step into cutting the cable television connection. I have never looked back. I use this in conjunction with an digital antenna I built (look online for instructions).
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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A-1 all the way
by Beyondcom on May 15, 2012
Pros: Streams more smoothly than any device I've tried.
Works well on my slow Centurylink 1.5 MBPS DSL.
Nice, easy to use interface.
Roku Newscaster with NPR and many others.
Has more channels than other streaming devices.Cons: Would be nice to have an ethernet (wired) port on the LT but the wireless N works well.
Summary: I've tried various streaming devices and also Windows Media Center on a VERY fast PC with high end dual video cards. None of them worked even CLOSE to as ...
Summary: I've tried various streaming devices and also Windows Media Center on a VERY fast PC with high end dual video cards. None of them worked even CLOSE to as well as the Roku. DSL here is limited to 1.5 MBPS and all the other devices had stalling problems. Many of them crashed after stalling. Only the Roku passed, and with flying colors. I have 2 ethernet wired XS Rokus and 1 LT connected wirelessly. They all work flawlessly.
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This is the BEST device for the money you spend!
by J_Faviken on May 14, 2012
Pros: MLB @ Bat: I get all MLB games via this little device and love it. The most inexpensive device of this kind I know. Easy to install and run with. TWO thumbs up!
Cons: None for me.
Summary: This is the best gizmo for the buck. Highly recommended!
MLB @ Bat: I get all MLB games via this little device and love it. The most inexpensive device of this ...Summary: This is the best gizmo for the buck. Highly recommended!
MLB @ Bat: I get all MLB games via this little device and love it. The most inexpensive device of this kind I know. Easy to install and run with. TWO thumbs up! -
Thought it was going to be great, but...
by abrewer0820 on April 17, 2012
Pros: Streamed Netflix well. Easy to set up and configure.
Cons: Absolutely bogged down my network completely. When the Roku was playing, every other wireless device in my home would run either run extremely slow, or not run at all. I even sought help from Roku who did offer some possible solutions, but no luck.
Summary: Returned the Roku. Could not tolerate it bogging down my network.
Before anyone says that my network is just not strong enough to handle it... ...
Updated on Apr 17, 2012Summary: Returned the Roku. Could not tolerate it bogging down my network.
Before anyone says that my network is just not strong enough to handle it... I can stream Netflix on multiple other devices at the same time with no issue. I.e., I stream it through the Wii in one room, through my Xbox in another room, plus have two PCs and my Android phone all using the network concurrently. The Roku does not share well with other devices...
Updated on Apr 17, 2012 -
Can't go wrong. with Roku
by PLachelier on April 7, 2012
Pros: Easy to set up, good streaming WiFi, plenty of free feeds, has radio, music and streaming movies.
Cons: Choice of free movie feeds usually feature movies that are at least 3 years old. Some movies hang up in an endless loop between ads. Sports channels need to get on board.
Summary: An excellent way to make that first step to break away from cable.
Summary: An excellent way to make that first step to break away from cable.
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Very, very poor manufacturing quality.
by driver_12 on March 27, 2012
Pros: A great variety of streaming material is available through Roku.
Cons: (These comments refer to a predecessor model, and not to the LT. I do not remember the model number of the Roku I owned. I can't look it up because I threw the damn thing away.)
Mechanically, my Roku was junk.
The LT has fewer features than my Roku did.Summary: My Roku failed just long enough after purchase so as to be out of warranty. (Warranty is 90 days.) I replaced it with a NeoTV NTV200 by Netgear, which is ...
Summary: My Roku failed just long enough after purchase so as to be out of warranty. (Warranty is 90 days.) I replaced it with a NeoTV NTV200 by Netgear, which is also inexpensive as these things go. The NTV 200 seems to be working OK. The variety of streaming material is sufficient on the NTV 200.
Regarding the "fewer features" comment I made above: The LT does not have an ethernet jack, nor does it have an S/PDIF output. My older Roku had both these items.
It is also possible to turn off the NTV 200. My Roku did not have an on/off switch. It was always on.
I would not recommend a Roku for reasons of workmanship.
To someone who has not owned a streaming media player before, I recommend the player with the most personally suitable streaming material. (The various manufacturers have different deals with different content providers.)
Once burned, twice shy. I will not buy a Roku again.
Updated on Mar 27, 2012
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Roku
- Part number: 2400D
- Bottom Line: The Roku LT is a killer streaming-media box, offering tons of streaming video content, including favorites like Netflix, Amazon Instant, Hulu Plus, and Pandora, for just $50.
General
- Product Type Digital multimedia receiver
Network & Internet Multimedia
- Functionality Internet video playback,
Internet radio playback - Connectivity Wired,
Wireless
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Roku products on Shopper.com
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- Manufacturer:Roku
- Address:
399 Sherman Ave., Ste. 12, Palo Alto, CA 94306 - Phone: 1-888-600-7658
- Fax: 650-321-9648
