Roku is best for anyone

Forget $100 -- $50 is the new entry-level price point for streaming video. The Roku LT is the only product at this price point, but it's an enthusiastic Editors' Choice. With built-in Wi-Fi and free control apps available on iOS and Android (and, if you're old-fashioned, a regular old remote), the Roku LT delivers Netflix, Amazon, Vudu, Hulu Plus, and hundreds of other streaming-video and audio channels to any TV (including older, non-HD models).

The Roku HD is a nearly identical model with a slightly different remote that's available through different retailers than the LT; it costs $10 more.

If you can spend more, the $100 Roku 3 (new for 2013) offers a zippier processor, full 1080p video, and an Ethernet port. Furthermore, the Wi-Fi remote also includes a headphone jack, so you can stream without disturbing family members nearby -- great for kids' programming or late-night viewing sessions.

If your TV offers an MHL-compatible HDMI port, you can opt for the Roku Streaming Stick ($100), which shrinks the little box into a USB-style dongle.

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Key compatible services: Netflix, Amazon Video On Demand, Hulu Plus, Vudu, PBS, Crackle, Mediafly, MLB.TV, NHL GameCenter, NBA Game Time, MLS MatchDay Live, UFC, Pandora, Mog, Rdio, TuneIn Radio, Spotify, Amazon Cloud Player, Flickr, Dish World, FoxNews.com, NBC News, Facebook photos, Flickr, plus hundreds of others. HBO Go, Epix, and Time Warner Cable are also available, but only for existing subscribers of those channels or services on compatible ISPs and cable providers. The Plex "channel" lets you stream video, audio, and photos from networked PCs and Macs. The "Play on Roku" feature lets you stream content from handheld devices as well. And Roku now offers a handy feature that allows you to search for content across multiple services. (Disclosure: CNET and some of its sister CBS-owned properties -- such as Chow and Showtime -- are also available on Roku.)

Who shouldn't buy it? The Roku is best for anyone who does not need iTunes compatibility. Also, YouTube is a notable no-show on Roku, which could be a deal-breaker for some. If you've got a big DVD or Blu-ray collection, you may want to opt for a Blu-ray player instead (see below) -- though, for $50 to $100, the Roku would still be a great option for a second room.