What is the use of an HTPC?

[TheConverter]

If your main rig is in your living room attached to a TV and you use it for media consumption then yes, it is a HTPC. Kodi is just a nice interface to use Netflix and things like PowerDVD via a remote (or your smartphone, that's quite convenient). The YouTube app is really good as well.

 

And why should I do this instead of doing it via my TV?

 

The main question remains, why should anyone spend 500$ on a HTPC instead of using a Hdmi cable like me?

[othertomperson]

And why should I do this instead of doing it via my TV?

 

The main question remains, why should anyone spend 500$ on a HTPC instead of using a Hdmi cable like me?

 

I would really love to see where you're seeing Celeron-based NUCs for $500

[dylan43270]

I used to use an android box, but it kinda got old. I now use my roommates Xbone, which actually works pretty well. I am even able to connect to my NAS with it. 

[Kevguy]

With these Smart TVs on the scene, the need for HTPC is declining. My Samsung smart tv can even access and play all my stuff on my NAS.

Now, I know you can access these respositorities (sp?) using xbmc/kodi. I have tried this and I find the stuff is all junk or poor quality....unless you are into porn.

So, I say, if you have a smart tv, don't bother with a HTPC...or if you are considering building a HTPC and don't have a smart tv, consider getting a smart tv instead.

[pauloforte]

I used to use an android box, but it kinda got old. I now use my roommates Xbone, which actually works pretty well. I am even able to connect to my NAS with it. 

I have an Android Box for a year now. Use it mainly as something where Kodi is installed and that can easily play 1080p+ stuff...

But I'm curious: when you say it got old, what do you mean? Because I'm not planning on buying anything else for the coming 2, 3 years...

[cragger89]

If you specifically want a PC in your lounge, it isn't a waste. I use my HTPC which cost me less in second hand parts to build than a raspberry pi.

 

I can use it to browse the internet properly in Windows using a proper browser, I can access my CCTV hardware via teamviewer, I can stream Steam games to it.

 

It's all taste. Saying an HTPC is a waste of money is quite frankly a ridiculous thing to say. If you are just going to use Kodi, then yes, a Raspberry Pi will do. If you WANT a PC in your lounge, how is it a waste of money.

 

Don't be silly.

[cragger89]

And why should I do this instead of doing it via my TV?

 

The main question remains, why should anyone spend 500$ on a HTPC instead of using a Hdmi cable like me?

 

I like to have dedicated machines per use.

 

My HTPC didn't cost 500$, it was about £50.00. 

 

Everyone has their preferred method. If I ran an HDMI cable from my main use PC to my TV, it would cost more than the HTPC did once you include things like having to hide an extra cable (on top of the network run which is already going from one floor to another) and potentially, repeaters to carry the HDMI signal far enough.

 

There is no 1 perfect answer to people's requirements.

 

You could all do yourselves a favour if you took that on board instead of getting aggravated when people run different hardware combinations. Especially if you live with your Mum and Dad and your PC is beside your TV, in your bedroom. 

[techguru]

htpc is always the better option

then you never run into something you can't play

[TheConverter]

You could all do yourselves a favour if you took that on board instead of getting aggravated when people run different hardware combinations. Especially if you live with your Mum and Dad and your PC is beside your TV, in your bedroom. 

 

Maybe I'm adult and decide where my battlestation is, in this case the livingroom because there is not enough space for in the bedroom

[Murdoch]

How is being a adult and having my PC with 980Ti in the living room?

 

Are you absolutely sure you are an adult?

 

Most adults generally don't feel the need to point out they are "an adult" whenever they face a difference of opinion, in fact doing so reeks of immaturity.

[TheConverter]

Are you absolutely sure you are an adult?

 

Most adults generally don't feel the need to point out they are "an adult" whenever they face a difference of opinion, in fact doing so reeks of immaturity.

 

And most adults don't tell others they are kids like @cragger89 Maybe you should read the whole thread before reacting to the last comment.

 

I didn't even have a TV in my room as a kid, what's the point in that lol?

[Murdoch]

And most adults don't tell others they are kids like @cragger89 Maybe you should read the whole thread before reacting to the last comment.

 

I didn't even have a TV in my room as a kid, what's the point in that lol?

 

I wasn't referring to the last comment. I was referring to your previous comment, which is why I quoted it.

[cragger89]

Where in my post did I call anyone children? Re read my post properly and don't be defensive.

[Quinnbeast]

If you don't want or need an HTPC, don't buy one. Mine runs on an E8500 that I bought on eBay for £9, everything else apart from the case and SSD is reused components. I don't know anything about this 500 dollar figure in the OP, and it still makes a Pi look like a cheap toy in terms of performance.

Historically, they're more for watching ripped DVD/Blu-Ray content rather than streaming. For most people there's probably quite a bit of overlap of different functions. I use mine for FLAC storage for two different network music players, watching Blu-Rays, occasional TV gaming, and yes, Netflix et al. It could also be streaming a film to one room while streaming FLAC files to another.

For me, its a far neater solution than a Blu-Ray player, a console and a NAS. Besides, TV support for certain channels is not indefinite. Under no circumstances will I be replacing a perfectly good TV because a crappy YouTube app is due to expire. That's just me though.