I watch a lot of TV from UK channels over the Internet. At the moment this is with a computer hooked up to the television, but this is not ideal (using a Divino Mini to control the computer is not optimal). So I was wondering about the streaming boxes, e.g. Apple TV, Roku, Sky etc.

This is what I need:
- HDMI output
- ability to watch main UK TV live and catchup (i.e. iPlayer, 4OD, ITVwhatever)
- ability to download iPlayer programs (also HD) in advance (am happy to plug in any storage needed)
- a "normal" remote control (not a keyboard and mouse!)

This is what I would like:
- Logitech Harmony compatibility (e.g roku has it)
- inbuilt VPN support (would be nice but I think I am dreaming)
- Failing that, ethernet rather than wifi


Any contenders? Apple TV combined with my iPad (I have the iPad Air) would seem to tick most boxes but having to have the ipad present is a slight annoyance. Am also curious how iplayer HD content from a computer compares quality-wise to iplayer HD from an iPad sent via an Apple TV.

Any advice/hints/tips appreciated.
GF

A general purpose tablet would be less restrictive about what catch up services are and are not available. In fact if it is on the internet it will be viewable using a tablet.

A big disadvantage though of using a tablet is that is then can't be used while watching tv. A cheap box by the tv would therefore be preferable.

Alternatively, are there any media pc solutions that would have reasonable remote control support for iplayer etc?

Not sure about the iPlayer download in advance facility but the Roku 3 matches your other requirements :
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00E37LZVY/