Mobile Entertainment Options

The choices for mobile entertainment can be overwhelming and confusing.  Here is a breakdown of some of the most popular devices and a few that are under the radar.

1.  FLO TV.   The FLO TV system generally sells for $199 and requires a monthly subscription of $14.99.  It has a 3.5 inch touchscreen display, integrated speakers, and lasts up to 5 hours on a charge.  The programming on the system is limited though and you are really at the mercy of what they are showing at any given time.  In the age of DVR’s many kids might be wondering why can’t I record or rewind this.

2.  Archos 404 Media Player with DVR. The Archos 404 is not a new unit.  It debuted several years ago but still offers great value if you can find one.  When paired together with the Archos DVR station for the 404 it makes a combination that is hard to beat.  The unit offers a 30GB hard drive to record shows.  With the optional DVR unit you can record shows directly off your TV without a monthly subscription to anything.  Your child can then watch their favorite shows whenever they want.  Live television might be great for sports fans on the go, but most programming for children is repeated so many times they are rarely really watching live tv anyway.  With this unit they can record what they want and watch it whenever they want, with no additional fees.

3.  iPhone.  If cost really isn’t an issue the best choice is an iPhone paired with a Slingbox.  When you hook a Slingbox up to your home DVR it allows you to watch any channel live over your computer or phone.  It also allows you to control your DVR and watch any shows you have recorded at home.  This combination is now offered on the 3G network so you can be driving down the road and someone in the backseat can be watching a show that is on your living room DVR on a iPhone.    The only downside to this setup is cost.   You’ll need an iPhone,  a $30 per month data plan on that phone,  a Slingbox, and the Slingbox iPhone app.  If you already have the iPhone though this is something to consider.

4. Zune HD 32 GB. The Zune HD has the best looking screen of any device, but is limited in content you can load or record. There is no option for live tv and it is complicated to get your own content on the device. This leaves you with the option of purchasing episodes, but over the long run this could get very expensive if your child want a lot of different episodes.

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