Sure, you can record movies and play movies using your HTPC, but did you know you can rent movies online too? Last night I tried Netflix’s new “Watch Instantly” feature using my DVR and enjoyed a downloaded treat.
What’s Cool
- Truly instant start, no buffering and no stuttering
- One hour of viewing time per dollar you spend monthly ($5 plan = 5 hours etc)
Downside
- Movie quality is dependent on your connection speed - but this is what makes it instant.
- Movie selection leaves something to be desired - I’m sure this will improve with time.
- Have to use Internet Explorer - not a big deal, but I feel dirty loading that bad boy up.
Other Options
Naturally, there are video on demand alternatives to Netflix.
- Vongo offers a $9.99 - unlimited download program.
- CinemaNow offers an unlimited plan for $30/mo or $70 a year and includes porn.
- Amazon Unbox - which I’ve read horrible things about is more of a traditional rental setup - not an unlimited monthly deal. They also download to Tivo’s. But none of you are using a Tivo, right?
In the end, I love getting a shiny DVD in the mail but really appreciate the option of downloading something on a whim.
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Brent | March 16th, 2008 at 1:17 pm | link
Ian,
If you have girder or a comparable app, you might consider setting it up so you can control Netflix with your remote control. Makes life much easier
http://brentevans.blogspot.com/2008/03/control-netflix-watch-now-playback-with.html
Brent
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Randall Perry | August 20th, 2009 at 7:20 pm | link
Netflix uses Silverlight for streaming the movies, you do NOT need Internet Explorer for this.
I use FireFox on the HTPC in the living room and it plays the movies as good as having the physical DVD.
The selection is much larger now and I have unlimited Watch-instantly movies with the 2-at-a-time plan.