Best option for media center, right now or in the near future?

I want to get set up with a media center/ browsing PC for my TV. I want to use it for streaming services, all kinds of media playback, browsing, game emulators, etc. At 1080P. I would prefer to have something that I can run Windows or Linux desktop although I guess Android would work too. For $0-$300.

I know I could put together something small with integrated graphics but I am curious about the small stuff on the market now. It is all a bit over my head. I know about the Raspberry Pi but I don't really know much about it. Are there other things out there that are similar or better?

Are there any good options with a small footprint?

I tried searching for some info but didn't have much luck. If this has been discussed before a link to the thread would be great.

 

Thanks all.

$$$?

Up to about $300 is what I'm looking to spend.

its new http://www.newark.com/raspberry-pi/raspberrypi-2-modb-1gb/sbc-raspberry-pi-2-model-b-1gb/dp/38Y6467

I'm using my old laptop running Windows 7 with Kodi/XBMC and GameEX at the moment which does the trick quite nicely. Did try running it through Linux but could never install graphics drivers no matter what I tried. With Windows I get the added benefit of a decent set of drivers and Steam In Home streaming works almost flawlessly.

I am planning on grabbing a Raspberry Pi 2 when I have the spare money and trying RetroPi and RaspBMC on that instead.