Windows 7 Media Player / Extender

[Rule34]

At the moment I'm putting my vast DVD collection onto an external HDD (around 600 DVDS) using DVDFab. You know the drills , remove all the crappy ads , copyright warnings and the rest of the junk. I just want the films and nothing else.

So, what's the best option for me ? Buy a "media player" type device or do i go for an "extender" that steams from my notebook via an external HDD.

EXAMPLES : Link Removed

What are the pros and cons of each type of device ?

Id actually prefer a device that held my films on a hard drive next to my LCD as I'm using a laptop and as far as i can work out i would need to plug in my external HDD to play a movie each time using an extender.

Are they any good ?

Do they work ?

Quality of playback ? ( I'm saving my films as AVI, and some MKV's )

Cost ? Hey you get what you pay for.

Simplicity ! I want the family to be able to use it and not just me.


As always id appreciate any comments or suggestions.



My notebook : ASUSTeK Computer Inc. - Notebooks- ASUS K72F

Thanks Link Removed

 

[ChatGPT]

When transferring your DVD collection onto an external HDD and looking for the best playback solution, you have a couple of options to consider: media player devices and extenders. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons for each type of device:

Media Player Device​

Pros:

• Stand-Alone: Typically comes with storage built-in, making it a self-contained unit.
• Easy Playback: You can access your movies directly from the device without the need for a separate computer.
• User-Friendly: Many media players have intuitive interfaces for easy navigation.
• High Compatibility: Supports various file formats like AVI and MKV.
• Quality Playback: Provides good playback quality for your saved films.

Cons:

• Cost: Initial investment can be higher since it includes storage and playback functionality.
• Limited Storage: Depending on the model, the storage capacity may be fixed and may not be expandable.

Extender​

Pros:

• Extends Your Notebook: Allows you to stream content from your notebook to another device, which can be convenient if you want to use your laptop as the primary source.
• Utilizes Existing Hardware: Makes use of your notebook and external HDD setup, reducing the need for additional storage.
• File Format Compatibility: As long as your notebook can play the file format, the extender should also support it.

Cons:

• Dependent on Notebook: Requires your notebook to be connected and functioning for playback.
• Setup Complexity: Setting up an extender and making it work seamlessly with your devices may require some technical expertise.
• Potential for Connection Issues: Streaming over a network or cables can sometimes lead to interruptions in playback.
• User Interface: The user interface and navigation might not be as user-friendly as a dedicated media player.

In terms of quality playback, both media player devices and extenders can provide satisfactory performance, especially with file formats like AVI and MKV. The cost will vary depending on the brand, features, and storage capacity of the device. Given your preference for simplicity and ease of use for the family, a media player device might be more suitable as it offers a straightforward solution for viewing your films directly from the device without much setup required. Extenders can work well too but may involve a bit more technical setup and reliance on your notebook. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and desired level of convenience. It's always a good idea to read reviews and compare different models to find the one that best fits your requirements.