Sony SMP-N100 (photos)

by ZDNet Author | December 3, 2010 3:00pm PST | Image 1 of 9

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The end of 2010 has seen an explosion of interest in streaming-media boxes, with major product launches and updates coming from Apple TV, Google TV, Roku, and Boxee.

Sony's SMP-N100 hasn't garnered nearly the press of its rivals, which isn't fair because it's one of the most fully featured streamers we've seen. Its selection of online streaming services includes Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon VOD, Pandora, and Slacker, effectively matching the key content channels found on the excellent Roku XDS. And the SMP-N100 outdoes the Roku by also offering playback of your own digital media collection, either via its USB port or DLNA streaming.

What the SMP-N100 lacks is finesse, with its utilitarian external design and less-than-polished user interface. The subpar user interface holds it back from being a standout streamer, but it's a good choice for those who are considering Roku's line of streaming-media boxes but want to add personal media streaming for just a little more.

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