Logitech Revue Review (Part 1)

I personally own a Logitech Revue. Yes, I doled out $299.99 + tax for a little box and a wireless keyboard. I don't regret it at all. The Logitech Revue has far exceeded my expectations and proves itself to be a bargain once you understand the useful capabilities of this "revolutionary" product. This review is part of a series. This article will examine the core functionality of the Logitech Revue. Part 2 will review the keyboard controller and mobile application.

First, what is the Logitech Revue? The products' box describes it best, "TV, Web, movies, apps and more. If you can think it, you can watch it." Sound to good to be true? I'll breakdown each of the aforementioned categories of the Logitech Revue.

TV

The Logitech Revue is a pass through device, meaning your cable is fed through the Revue and passed on to your home theater receiver or television. Unlike other media center boxes you do not have to switch inputs on your television to use Google TV. It can be "toggled" on and off.

Web

The Logitech Revue comes preloaded with Google Chrome as the browser. While not as fast as the desktop version of Chrome, this web browser is much faster than browsing the web on a PS3 or Wii. Adobe Flash is pre-installed so you get a full web browsing experience.

Movies

The Logitech Revue will take you to the movies. Netflix HD streaming is on board. However the user interface isn't as polished as the PS3 and Dolby Digital Surround Sound is not on board (expect and update from Netflix). Amazon VOD is also pre-installed on the Logitech Revue. Amazon VOD fills in for the titles Netflix does not stream. Amazon VOD also streams TV shows before they get released on DVD or Bluray, unlike Netflix.

Apps

The list of pre-installed apps are basic:

CNBC Real Time (stock quotes)

Chrome (web browser)

Netflix (streaming video)

NBA Gametime (scores and stats for NBA)

Logitech Media Player

Logitech Vid HD (web video chat)

Pandora (music streaming)

YouTube (streaming video)

Napster (music streaming)

Twitter (social networking)

In early 2011 the Android Market will be added to the Logitech Revue and a library of 100,000+ apps will be available.