Streaming platforms keep raising their prices, and cable TV is infested with ads (and sanity-draining 24-hour news channels). A DIY HTPC (Home Theater PC) using a mini PC and Linux is the perfect escape, putting you back in control of the content you watch.

The gulf in quality between a Blu-ray disc and even the best mainstream streaming services is vast. It's not just something video nerds notice! Which is why I always advocate buying your favorite shows and movies on disc, but for most people, convenience seems to trump all.