Vudu

April 2009. The Vudu set-top box is a little more expensive than some similar products, and the highest-quality movies are more expensive to rent than average, but critics say that video quality is better overall than the competition and notably better in the case of the company's newest HDX format offerings. The library of 13,000 available titles (including movies and TV shows) is relatively impressive at first glance for a download/streaming service, but a closer look reveals lots of B-grade (and notably worse) titles. Most movies can be viewed within seconds of ordering, but HDX films must be downloaded first -- a task that can take hours because of that format's massive file size. Support for Pandora Internet radio is also available. Unlike other services, most rentals can be extended for a reduced cost. If you are more interested in movie downloads for spur-of-the moment viewing than in the absolute best video quality, the Roku Digital Video Player (*est. $100 plus rental costs) is easy to use and less expensive. It lets Netflix subscribers view streaming video -- including HD -- from that site at no additional charge, and lets you buy or rent Amazon Video on Demand titles as well.

CNET has the most comprehensive and up-to-date information about Vudu. Consumer Reports also has current information in a blog post. David Pogue at The New York Times shares his impressions of Vudu's HDX format movies. PC World's coverage is a mixed bag. An article covering all Internet-delivered movie services is up-to-date, but detailed information in a linked Vudu review is older.