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These apps enable you to organize and play your media through attractive interfaces designed for TVs, so you can use them to make your very own Netflix-like streaming services! One thing to note is that while we really like Plex, it doesn't support hardware transcoding – just software transcoding. The operating system it runs on makes adding additional features, such as running Kodi or Plex, simple. Not only is it powerful and packed full of features, it’s also easy to use.
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We’ve had a play around with the QNAP TS-251A and we've been very impressed with it. It also comes with a remote control, making it easy to use from the comfort of your couch. It comes with some excellent features that make it a great choice for use as a home media server, including HDMI-out to plug directly into your TV, and supports 4K hardware decoding, which is good when you begin moving to ultra high-definition (UHD) content, as the QNAP TS-251A will be able to transcode UHD content for playing on smart TVs and other devices, without you having to worry about whether they support the format. When looking at the best NAS to use as a home media server we chose the QNAP TS-251A, which is an excellent two-bay NAS device that specialises in media playback. Read our Chromecast with Google TV HD review.NAS drives are also designed to run 24 hours a day, so you don’t need to worry about having to turn yours on when you want to watch something – it will always be available. That said, this is an excellent HD option for those who just want something cheap. It might ultimately make more sense to spring for a 4K streamer, especially if you have a 4K TV or might get one. It offers Alexa support, so you can use your voice to control the TV, but it still lacks physical volume, mute and power buttons. For example, the remote that comes with Roku's entry-level streamer, the Roku Express, lacks voice control or the ability to adjust the volume, never mind being able to turn the TV on or off. Other entry-level HD streaming devices skimp on hardware features in order to sell their players at a lower price. It also comes with a built-in button to access the Google Assistant. It's speedy and offers the same form-factor and remote as the Chromecast with Google 4K, which means that it doesn't need line-of-sight to work and can seamlessly control your TV's power, volume and inputs. If you're looking for a cheap streamer for your HD TV, this is the one to get. The brand new Chromecast with Google TV HD is far and away the best HD-only, entry-level streaming device you can find.
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