ON the original topic...Remembering the odd model numbering scheme Roku used.... Whether your unit is a "2" with suffix letters,(like 2-XS) " or the newer "2" (no suffix) it's probably just fine for most everything you'd want unless you're a "power user"needing the latest audio streaming format via Tune-In Radio. About a year ago, when the "Roku 2-XS (note the suffix) units were offered refurbished I bought a couple. They have all the functions I need, and enough channel storage for me. I still enjoy both of them daily. They even handle the app nicely for my "Tablo" over the air PVR in each room, which I was surprised they could! The NEWER "2" with the (orange box) is excellent if you don't want to spend the bucks on the "3"....and, it still offers hookups to standard older TV's with composite audio/video, and now even has the headphone capability on the remote. A nice unit.
I still own, and still USE an ORIGINAL first-model Roku box from 2009 on one of my sets, but I recognize that this box will not have the loading/processing speed, nor the channel capability (storage/processor type) of the newer boxes. Life expectancy you asked? From a hardware standpoint, unlimited if the Roku is not hurt by something like a power surge, or a physical issue. From a "what can I stream" standpoint, the newer boxes will allow you more channels stored, faster response, and overall better performance, and some additional channels which are not compatible with the original series of Rokus.
Scott G. would remember my being angry at Roku for their constant upgrading...and making me feel like my old boxes were outdated immediately when bought. (The 2-XS was new to me when the new "2" came out.) I have come, however to realize that he was right when he posted a year or so ago that for the minimal cost of these "hockey puck" boxes they're an excellent value when the new ones come out..and really, how much more can they shove IN to them now? They're probably the best value in a streaming box available to the consumer today by virtue of WHAT they can deliver to you, and I'm probably their biggest fan, having had one since they were new, and always having been impressed with what they deliver on my screen in quality and variety!
I will say, however...that my original roku seems to have the best wifi antenna of all of the models I've tried.....and can pull a signal most anywhere without repositioning the box, where the newer ones can be a bit more picky..but always seem to work, regardless.
So, for me, it's ONE original 2009 Roku in my office, , (2) Roku-2XS units for living room and bedroom, ONE Roku-1 basic in the kitchen, and one newer Roku-2 with the headphones for the "game" room of the radio station. ....oh, yes, "And a partridge, in a pear tree!"
Sorry to make this so long...I shouldn't respond to threads when drinking morning coffee.......
