Apologies if this is the wrong instance for this.

Is there a best option for HTPC streaming solutions besides throwing linux on an old desktop?

Plugging in a desktop for streaming doesn’t work too well for wall mounted televisions.

My options are mini pcs or a 3rd party streaming stick.

Even a raspi stick running osmc should do the trick.

These 3rd party sticks online are extremely tempting for power and features but I’m concerned about embedded malware.

Best option would be to wipe it and load osmc or rasparian to ensure its clean.

Anyone have experience with this?

Care to share your setup?

DQ06 ATV Mini TV Stick Android12 Allwinner H618 Quad Core Cortex A53 Support 8K Video 4K Wifi6 BT Voice Remote Smart TV Box https://a.aliexpress.com/_mNgjsEq

  • BearOfaTime@lemm.eeEnglish
    0·
    9 months ago

    How’s the performance?

    It’s a bit pricey to this crowd (me included), but if it solves the problem well, then it’s a good value I’d say.

    Are you running a media player client on it (Jellyfin/Kodi/Plex)?

    Does your TV remote control it (via the hdmi connection)?

    Thanks!

    • Dr. Wesker@lemmy.sdf.orgEnglish
      0·
      9 months ago

      My use case is fairly particular, since I only have one TV in my travel trailer, and I use it while boondocking – meaning networking is mobile data only. The path of least resistance is often just to store all media locally. Unless I’m in an area with a solid 5G signal.

      Kodi works a charm on it.

      However, I also use it for light computing, and even light gaming, so I typically just boot into a tiling windows manager and use MPV to watch videos.

      I can’t comment on remotes. I paired it with a keyboard trackpad combo, again, given the use case of it being a multi-use travel trailer PC.

      EDIT: Before I used this, I used a Pi 4b, and it constantly got bogged down. This is infinitely zippier and more capable.

      • BearOfaTime@lemm.eeEnglish
        0·
        9 months ago

        RV and Boondocking are excellent use-cases to really narrow requirements down. Limited power and space make you rethink what you “need”.

        Did you follow a guide for installing Linux?

        • Dr. Wesker@lemmy.sdf.orgEnglish
          0·
          9 months ago

          I just used a mid-weight Debian distro I’m pretty familiar with, and it installed like any other time. No issues. Though if I had to redo it, I’d maybe choose a lighter and more barebones distro.

          • BearOfaTime@lemm.eeEnglish
            0·
            9 months ago

            Neat.

            Thanks for the info… Though we’ll see if the house finance office approves the purchase! 🤣