Roku Express Media Streamer with Remote

Got this as part of SlingTV's promotion and we are happy with it. Our internet speed isn't super fast (at 6Mpbs) and this unit sits downstairs in the living room while the wireless modem/router from AT&T Uverse sits upstairs in the den. It streams 720p SlingTV stations without any issues! (I set my resolution to 720p vs 1040p in hopes that it won't require as much bandwidth; not sure if it makes a difference). Unit does run quite warm during viewing but doesn't affect performance. Remote is well designed and the image quality is great. We have downloaded the Roku remote app so we can use our cellphones to control the unit as well.

I have both a roku express and an amazon fire stick. Given the choice between these devices the roku express did not impress. The remote frequently does reach the device. Part of the problem is the infrared reciever has to be positioned where the remote can be directly aimed at it, and I mean directly straight on. No sitting in the living room at a slight angle from the TV. It will not respond unless you are directly infront of the device. I'm not sure why, b/c I can aim my TV remote at the ceiling and it works without fail. The device itself is wonderful and easy to setup but it's a struggle to find just the right spot in a room to use it.

I've had two complaints with my roku express, the main one being the delay between pushing buttons on the remote and having it react on the screen. It takes too long and can be especially annoying when trying to type something or pause and rewind a show. The other more minor issue I have had when streaming shows is there will occasionally be a few frames that freeze or get jumbled. It happens so quickly that it doesn't really interrupt the show but it can be slightly annoying. If I had these same issues on the more expensive roku I would give it less stars and probably not recommend it at all, but at this price point I think it's a fair value.