Graboid: Laptop Video Speeds Ahead

We’re regularly testing a number of web TV solutions, looking for the best combination of video content (quality and variety), usability, speed and value. So far, one of the best all-around choices for accessing commercial movies and TV online is Graboid , a free video service which offers a huge selection of full-length content, available via streaming or viadownload at the fastest speeds available on the web.

More Online Video Content

With over 66,000 titles available, Graboid has one of the broadest selections of video online, including 17,000 movie titles and over 37,000 TV shows. Most of the content is in English, but there’s also a decent smattering in other languages.

The service is focused on providing feature-length programming. Graboid allows owners of video content to upload files to Usenet for rapid distribution and promotion. While the company is actively engaging copyright owners, it’s clear that some files available have been added to the database by third parties. Graboid contends since their service is different from the P2P networks it’s completely legal.

The Faster the Better

Even with all this cool content, the real story here is speed. Graboid transfers video way faster than BitTorrent and P2P file-sharing sites, with virtually no waiting for steady reliable streaming. In fact. their exclusive Fusebox technology provides the fastest data transfer we’ve found anywhere: we regularly see Graboid downloads maxing out our broadband connections.

And in many instances, a fast file download is a very good thing. At a good site like Hulu or Veoh you can stream decent content directly to your laptop. But if you’re behind a firewall, streaming can range from agonizingly slow to downright impossible.

Meanwhile, Comcast has admitted to slowing down video streams from third party sites that they can’t monetize; other big networks like Verizon and ATT are getting in line. (My PC laptop is a case in point — even though it’s a fast processor, the firewall firmware pretty much ensures that a video stream just ain’t gonna be pretty.

A speedy download, on the other hand, gives me quick, reliable access to smooth and steady playback.) BTW, for streaming Graboid, you’ll need a minimum of 1 Mbps.

More Pros than Cons

In addition to the amount of quality content we’ve already discussed, there’s a lot more to like about Graboid.

1. The application organizes this massive library by category and provides a basic search window. Between the two, it’s pretty easy to find what you’re looking for.
2. With the free basic membership, you get 4 gb of file transfer per month. And rest assured, the free membership is actually free — no hidden costs or strings attached.
3. If 4 gigs per month just ain’t enough, additional subscription plans are available for as little as $4.99 a month.
4. Graboid is free from adware, spyware and any other kind of maliciousness.

What’s a review without a few gripes:

• Graboid’s library navigation structure could be more intuitive, and the search needs some beefing up — there’s no clean way to find content by language.
• They include a basic rating system integrated into the listings, but it’s limited to thumbs-up or thumbs-down feedback.
• And although the payback screen provides a smooth playback and decent video quality, the interface lacks fully functional rewind button.
• Oh, and a sliding content indicator would be nice, to be able to scrub your way forward or back through the show or movie.
• Last but not least: no Mac version yet.

The web site provides access to their blog and a support forum (Warning: Graboid and Vista don’t get along very well!); it’s also the one place to join Graboid and download the application. Check it out and let me know what you think.