Roku makes it possible to see ACORN TV which has fabulous BBC programs! What more can you ask! And streaming on Netflix, Amazon, HULU, etc. is all there too. Easy installation and creation of online accounts!
I really wanted to love the Roku stick. But it's plugged into the back of the home entertainment center 12 feet from where we sit, and the remote only works intermittently unless I get up and get closer to the TV.
The Android WiFi remote constantly loses connection with the Stick. You press it, it might or might not work, but as likely as not, you'll press it and get a "lost connection" message, even though it's clear both the phone and the Roku are getting a steady WiFi signal (since the stream is uninterrupted)..
I don't know if any "stick" internet receiver will work better, but for us the Roku Stick is just not reliable.
I do not have cable tv we watch all our shows thru the Roku and/or computer. The Roku is easy to use and offers plenty of options. I have noticed sites like Netflix and Hulu don't have all the options thru the Roku as they do on the computer which can make searching for shows more difficult and some shows are not updated on the Roku but offered on the website over the internet. Over all it is well worth the money and I would recommend it to anyone looking to get rid of their cable tv but cant afford to purchase a home theater pc.
I was able to install the roku stick but had to call customer service and spend about 45 mins on the phone trying to get it to stream. The written instructions were not very clear and it took 2-3 tries by the customer service person to get it working properly. Once it was all working properly, it is was very easy to learn how to use.