The best ways to watch Netflix or Hulu on your TV

by Phil Hornshaw

Streaming video services and the ability to watch just about anything you want, whenever you want, are some of the coolest things about the rise of high-speed Internet. And more and more devices are becoming available every day that make streaming easy – making services such as Netflix and Hulu a handy alternative to paying the cable company.

Connect devices like video game consoles, Blu-Ray players, streaming boxes and even Internet TVs can be used to access video services, so there are plenty of options available at lots of different prices. Pick the device that’s right for you and may even save some money or grab something with added benefits.

Get your game on

Maybe the handiest set of devices for streaming video are gaming consoles. Playstation 3s, Xbox 360s and Nintendo Wiis can connect to your home Internet networks and let you access Netflix or Hulu, with the added benefit of awesome games to play.

New game consoles are on the way this year, so this is a great time to grab one of the older models at a discount. Check out GameStop for a start, where you can get 2.5 percent cash back and deals like $50 off consoles such as the Xbox 360. Or check out Best Buy, Walmart or Target for great deals as well – all of them offer 2 percent cash back.

TVs, streaming boxes, and more

Outside of game consoles, there are plenty of other handy options for streaming services. Smart TVs like those available from Sony (3 percent cash back) or Samsung connect to the Internet directly, and you can try streaming boxes such as those available from Roku, or the Apple TV set top box. Try the retailers above for all of them, or alternatives such as RadioShack for 3 percent cash back.

All these options can save you money, so the best thing is to decide what device is best for you and hunt down a good price.