I have a 4K 120Hz TV that I have blocked from internet access on my router (because it is spyware with no way to turn off the built in microphone) and I have a desktop that supports 4K but I don’t want to run my desktop into the ground streaming on it all the time.
I’d like one that isn’t American I guess if that really matters (seems like it kind of does) but I noticed options are limited unless you want to spend $600 on a mini PC which I don’t.
I’d like to spend like $200 max if possible for this if possible.
I’m in the same boat as you and have tried time and time again to make it work using standard PC stuff. And yeah, it works but having to faff about with Kodi, torrents, or drivers got really annoying very quickly. If you actually want to use any of the big streaming providers (think Netflix, Prime, Disney, etc) you’re at best going to get 720p, if anything at all on linux, without extensive tinkering. Running Windows or getting a cheap M4 Mac Mini are also valid choices but I frankly just want to sit down and watch something and not have to wait for Copilot or any updates, aside from the rather clunky desktop experience.
For me the easiest compromise to make was to get an Apple TV. It — mostly — just works. All the big streaming apps work without hassle and I’m still able to watch my media collection through Jellyfin.
The way I see it, if you want to use any streaming apps, you have to play by their rules — DRM and all — no matter if it makes any sense.