What is a droidbox and a Roku?

[tvbob]

Hi, complete dumb newbie here.;
I've been told about streaming devices, but not very familiar with them.
Was told to look for either a Roku or a Droidbox.
Can anyone kindly explain exactly how these devises work and which is best please?
Or perhaps guide me to the relevant forum?

Edit.
How does one subscribe to a thread please?....
Erm sorry i just found it. You see i really am dumb..

 

[Alabalcho]

These boxes allow you to watch streaming online video - Youtube, Hulu, Amazon, Netflix. Some of them also allow for streaming from local PC.
Roku have several different devices, with various capabilities.
Droidbox seems to be an Android box with TV connection. I have never seen one of these, so cannot tell how it works.

What you want to to with such a device? You should also considered what services are available for you (e.g. Netflix, Amazon are not available worldwide)

 

[tvbob]

thanks for the reply.
I would like to dump my BTTV, as getting too expensive.
I had Sky before that and dumped it for BT as was a lot cheaper back then.
So a friend said to look for streaming boxes, therefore here i am..

 

[americanaudiophile]

The Roku boxes and stick allow you to install "channels" which are apps for thousands of online video services and private video streams. You can find reviews on this website comparing Roku to Apple TV and Amazon Fire video streaming boxes. Roku seems to be preferred.
A droidbox is a small computer running a version of the Android OS (like many smartphones). The advantage is that it is more open ended since you can install any app that you can on a phone. Showbox is one example that lets you access tons of movies and TV.
Here is an example
http/www.amazon.com/PROBOX2-Streaming-Android-Processor-Controller/dp/B00N3KEFT6/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top/180-0704244-6358720
You can add apps to access multiple video streaming sites such as KODI/XBMC for android which features "addons" for streaming movies, tv, and music. You can run KODi on many devices so If you want to try it (it's free) you can install it on a computer and see how you like it.
http/www.instructables.com/id/Cutting-Cable-With-a-Streaming-Media-Box-XBMCKodi/?ALLSTEPS
http/lifehacker.com/5900626/create-a-kickass-seamless-play-everything-media-center-the-complete-guide

 

[tvbob]

Thanks for the info & links.
I will look at them and browse this forum later.
It looks as though the Roku might be favorite.