WHAT STREAMING DEVICES ARE AVAILABLE NOW

Streaming devices are hardware tools that enable users to stream content directly from the internet to their TVs or other screens, such as movies, TV shows, music, and games. These devices typically connect to the television by HDMI and use Wi-Fi or Ethernet to access internet content from online media houses such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Spotify, and others.

Key Features of Streaming Devices:

Internet connectivity: Connect to your home Wi-Fi or Ethernet network to access online material.
App support: Provide access to popular streaming apps and services.
User Interface: Include menus and navigation systems to browse and select content.
Remote Control or Voice Assistance: Operated using a remote control, smartphone app, or voice commands (via Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.).
High-Quality Streaming: Support HD, 4K, and sometimes HDR content, depending on the model.
Screen Mirroring: Some devices allow mirroring or casting content from smartphones, tablets, or computers.

The best streaming devices and sticks give instant access to your favorite entertainment. Onboard functionalities make it easy and swift to access these platforms, and you should have extras like an entire channel dedicated to free content or cloud gaming services. There are so many different streaming devices out there, and we’re here to help you find the one that’s right for you.

We’ve tested almost every streaming device in the market, rigorously analyzing them to see which is the most useful, best-priced, and feature-rich. Not every option among the best streaming devices is one-size-fits-all. Whether it’s price or features, you may not need everything that an over $100 box might provide, so we’ve focused on organizing them in a way that explicitly highlights their best use cases.

THE QUICK LIST

Here’s an overview of the best streaming devices available based on our testing and reviews. Keep scrolling to see our in-depth analysis of all the top streaming devices for every user and budget. Get the most out of your TV using one of the best streaming devices.

1. Roku Streaming Stick 4K

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Apps: More than 26,000

· Size: 3.7 x 0.8 x 0.5 inches

· Weight: 0.7 oz

REASONS TO BUY

· Relatively affordable

· Full 4K HDR capabilities

· Dolby Vision

REASONS TO AVOID

· Dolby Atmos is missing

· Amazon offers better live TV integration

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a small but noteworthy upgrade over the Streaming Stick Plus it replaces. However, the king stays the king because little change has occurred—and only improvements have come. Most notably, we’ve finally got Dolby Vision on this Roku stick, so your favorite streaming shows will have the right color balance and contrast (provided your TV supports it, too).

As one of the best streaming devices and our favorite, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is the perfect balance of price and performance. It costs $50 (often discounted to just $40) while providing snappy navigation and smooth streaming. It’s got all the apps you could need, too. Since Roku’s platform is a delight to use and beloved by many, it’s an easy win for those looking to snap up a great deal with tons of value.

Consider spending more on a hard-wired Ethernet connection (if your living space demands it) on the Roku Ultra and Apple TV 4K.

2. Roku Express 4K Plus

SPECIFICATIONS

· Size: 3.3 x 1.5 x 0.7 inches

· Max Resolution: 3840 x 2160

· Ports: None

· Remote: Network Voice remote

· Device Type: Box

REASONS TO BUY

· Excellent 4K HDR performance

· Decent navigation

· Improved remote

REASONS TO AVOID

· Awkward design

· No Dolby Vision or Atmos

So, you want to get 4K streaming at the lowest price possible, but you’re worried about cutting too many corners? Check out the new Roku Express 4K Plus, which replaces the flawed Roku Premiere. We like this model a lot more because of its improved remote. Previously, you needed a direct line of sight to point your remote directly at the Roku device for it to work.

This way is much better, so you don’t need to think when you click the paddle. That, plus UHD image quality and snappy performance, means that the Roku Express 4K Plus is one of the best streaming devices for those on a budget.

We wish it were heavier, though, as you may wind up spending a minute fiddling with its HDMI cable to make it sit flat on a surface. The Roku Streaming Stick Plus doesn’t have that issue. You may need to look elsewhere if you love A/V standards, such as Dolby Vision or Atmos Audio. Want something cheaper? Our Roku Express (2022) review dives deep into its performance gains.

3. Google TV Streamer

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Apps: Over 10,000

· Size: 6.4 x 3 x 1 inch

· Ports: HDMI 2.1, USB-C, Ethernet

· Supported HDR formats: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG

· Supported audio formats: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Atmos

REASONS TO BUY

· Free & live TV integrations

· Enhanced smart home controls

· Redesigned remote

· Clever use of AI for screensaver

REASONS TO AVOID

· Pricier than Chromecast with Google TV

· Can’t fit behind the TV

The Google TV Streamer has upgraded from the older Chromecast with Google TV 4K, which it’s replacing. You still get excellent live TV integration, with a whole section for free TV and select paid live TV streaming services (YouTube TV, Sling, and Philo). It also packs 4K UHD streaming with HDR and Dolby Vision support for excellent picture quality and Dolby Atmos for immersive sound. And with Google TV, you have support for the over 6,500 Android TV apps.

However, the Google TV Streamer has a few new features, too: We like the latest smart home interface, which lets us monitor and control all our smart home devices right from our TV. We could view live streams from our home security cameras and video doorbells, see which lights were on — and dim them, too — and even check the temperature on our smart thermostat. It’s a step up from what all other streaming devices offer.

Google has also incorporated its Gemini AI into the TV Streamer. When you’re looking for a show to watch, it will provide summaries of the show and pull in reviews from both critics and the general public — for better or worse.

What we found more entertaining was using Gemini to create screensavers. Think of (almost) anything and speak it into the remote, and Gemini will make it to amuse or horrify you.

While the Google TV Streamer no longer nestles behind your TV, you’ll need to find a space for it in front. It has an Ethernet port, but it only has Wi-Fi 5. However, there is a button on the device that, when pressed, will cause the remote to emit a chime, which we found handy when it got lost in our couch cushions. Only Roku has a similar feature.

Yes, the Google TV Streamer costs $99 — twice that of the Chromecast with Google TV — but the upgrades will keep it relevant for years.

4. Apple TV 4K

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Apps: Thousands

· Size: 3.7 x 3.7 x 1.2 inches

· Weight: 7.3 – 7.5 ounces

REASONS TO BUY

· A15 delivers faster app load times

· More affordable price (plus more storage)

· Excellent Apple ecosystem integration

REASONS TO AVOID

· Still expensive

· No Find My Remote feature

We love the Apple TV 4K (2022) at $129, $50 lower than before. Yes, that price is still incredibly high for the industry, but this price drop makes one of the best streaming devices (especially for Apple users) even more accessible. Apple’s super-charged the Apple TV 4K with its A15 Bionic system-on-chip, delivering some of the fastest load times we’ve seen on any streaming device. For example, it beats the latest Fire TV Cube and Roku Ultra in loading Netflix, YouTube, Disney Plus, and Spotify.

In addition, HDR10+ is finally supported (though this only works if your TV supports it, too), and the remote can charge over USB-C, not Lightning. Smart home enthusiasts will be excited about including Thread support for Matter, and some may be annoyed that you need to spend $20 more for an Ethernet port. The Roku Ultra, for example, includes one by default for just $99.

One of the best reasons to get the Apple TV 4K is TVOS, which is still the cleanest interface. But as much as I love the Apple TV remote, I’ve recently come into a weird problem where it stops being able to use my TV’s volume controls. Check out our guide on how to fix an Apple TV and how I solved it.

5. NVIDIA SHIEL Nvidia Shield TV

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Channels: 5,000

· Size: 6.5 x 1.6 x 1.6 inches

· Weight: 4.8 oz

REASONS TO BUY

Excellent game-streaming

Quick rendering of UHD content

Lots of great apps

REASONS TO AVOID

AI upscaling doesn’t add that much
Somewhat expensive

The Nvidia Shield TV is a power user’s Android TV device. But it doesn’t look like any of the best streaming devices we’ve ever seen (it’s more like a mobile power charger).

This tube for your tube is incredible at speedily spitting out UHD 4K content, and its thousands of apps mean you’re getting practically everything you could watch. Its small size also ensures it will fit discretely into the ever-crowded space around your TV or work as a companion piece as your entertainment engine when on any trips away from home.

This Shield TV also includes a remote control rather than a game controller. We love this remote because it illuminates when you pick it up in the dark, so we’re not only relying on remembering where buttons are and what shape they are. Thanks to PlayStation 4 and Xbox One controller support, you won’t miss the lack of a packed-in controller. That all adds up to the best streaming device for those willing to spend just a bit more for some added gaming thrown in the mix.

6. Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd gen)

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Channels: More than 12,000

· Size: 3.9 inches x 1.2 inches x 0.55

· Weight: 1.5 oz

REASONS TO BUY

· Fast navigation and content launches

· Supports almost all apps

· Wi-Fi 6E support

REASONS TO AVOID

· More expensive than competitors

· Excessive promotion of Amazon content

The Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd gen) inclusion is noteworthy in its inclusion in this list. Our testing showed that Amazon improved performance and speed, especially in load times for specific apps. It also supports tri-band Wi-Fi 6E, which is excellent — if you have an advanced router.

Otherwise, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd gen) isn’t a massive upgrade. It has all the apps you need, the matte black dongle is nearly invisible, and the picture quality is top-notch. We wish it were less expensive (which might be during sales events) and the interface featured less blatant and constant Amazon content promotion. Still, those who want an Amazon Fire TV streaming device should go with this model. It may cost a little more, but it’s worth the investment to nab one of the best streaming devices.

7. ONN 4K GOOGLE TV STREAMING BOX

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Apps: Over 10,000

· Size: 3 x 3 x 0.5 inches

· Ports: HDMI, micro USB

· Supported HDR formats: HDR

· Supported audio formats: Dolby Atmos

REASONS TO BUY

· Cheapest 4K streaming device ever

· All the same apps in the Chromecast with Google TV

· Decent performance

REASONS TO AVOID

· Awkward, cheap-feeling design

· Remote app is inconsistent

While it may be hard to find in stock, the 4K Google TV streaming box is excellent for its price. As the first $20 4K streaming device — the price before any sale — this little puck offers Ultra HD streaming at a shockingly low price.

It also delivers all the same apps you can get on the Chromecast with Google TV, another option among the best streaming devices. The only problem is that its Google Home remote app integration is a little inconsistent, and we wish the Google Assistant search options were a little smoother.

8. CHROMECAST WITH GOOGLE TV HD

The best HD streaming device

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Apps: Over 10,000

· Size: 6.4 x 2.4 x 0.5 inches

· Ports: HDMI, USB-C

· Supported HDR formats: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG

· Supported audio formats: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Atmos via HDMI passthrough

REASONS TO BUY

· Same great Chromecast with Google TV… now in HD

· One of the best streaming device remotes

· Hides easily behind TV

· Supports HDR

REASONS TO AVOID

· Continue Watching row continues to confuse

· No 4K limits use cases

The Chromecast with Google TV HD is a streaming device that explains itself. It’s like the recent 4K Chromecast but does not output video in 4K. Instead, it tops out at 1080p. You’re primarily buying it to smarten up a ‘dumb’ TV or display or because you’d instead save $20 than stream in 4K.

That means it still has the same great new Chromecast design and the new Chromecast remote. The Chromecast with Google TV HD is no slouch, as it still packs HDR (high dynamic range) support for better contrast — which the Roku Express does not. Performance-wise, it’s comparable to all the other devices in its price range.

We prefer the Chromecast with Google TV HD over the $29 Amazon Fire TV Lite (which also has HDR) because the Chromecast’s home screen packs fewer ads. So, if you want a $29 streaming device, we’ll push you in this direction. It also packs Nest support for controlling smart home devices.

9. ROKU STREAMING STICK 4K PLUS

For $20 more, the best streaming device gets a better remote

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Apps: More than 26,000

· Size: 3.7 x 0.8 x 0.5 inches

· Weight: 0.7 oz

REASONS TO AVOID

· No Dolby Atmos

· Not a big upgrade from the previous model

What if you want the best streaming device with the best remote Roku makes? Then, you can save $10 with this bundle, which takes the Roku Streaming Stick 4K and pairs it with the Roku Voice Remote Pro. The remote’s big perks include — as its name implies — always-on voice commands, so you can control your TV even if you can’t find your remote. It just needs to be within a shout’s distance.

Also, this remote is rechargeable, reducing the need for batteries. Plus, it’s got a headphone jack for private listening over wired headphones and programmable buttons, so you’re not stuck with just the four branded app buttons on the remote.

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10. ROKU ULTRA (2020)

Best streaming device for finding your lost remote

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Apps: Thousands

· Size: 4.9 x 4.9 x 0.9 inches

· Weight: 8.0 oz

REASONS TO BUY

· Great performance

· Inventive remote control

· Dolby Vision HDR

REASONS TO AVOID

· Expensive

· Not much has changed since last year’s model

The new Roku Ultra is still the excellent streaming box it’s always been, just with a couple of tweaks — and keeping most of the perks you’d expect for $100 (4K HDR video and fast performance, for starters). For example, they’ve also added Dolby Vision, a must for those streaming high-quality movies and TV shows.

Plus, it still has a USB port that allows folks to play back their library of movie files on their TV. Yes, you don’t need to learn what a media server is or how to set one up. This year’s model also offers a faster processor and better wireless streaming. It even packs a button on the side to make your remote chirp when you can’t find it.

The other big boon of this model is that you can program the Roku remote’s two customizable buttons to open your favorite channels and the pre-programmed ones for Netflix, Hulu, Sling TV, and Vudu.

11. AMAZON FIRE TV CUBE (2022)

Best voice control in a streaming device

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Apps: Hundreds

· Size: 3.4 x 3.4 x 3.0 inches

· Weight: 16.4 oz

REASONS TO BUY

· Speedy performance

· Newly integrated Ethernet and USB-A port

· HDMI-IN port lets you connect more devices

REASONS TO AVOID

· $10 more expensive than before

· Super Resolution Upscaling doesn’t make a notable difference

Amazon’s Fire TV Cube got smarter, partially through a new octa-core processor that makes it one of the fastest streaming devices on the market. In our testing, that improved speed has it neck and neck with the Roku Ultra (2020) and Apple TV 4K (2021).

However, this streaming device is more about its voice commands, as it also functions as an Alexa speaker. Not only does it let you control a cable box (or a live TV service if you cut the cord), but it can also control your TV volume and inputs.

This year’s model is also better because it offers an HDMI-IN port for those of us juggling all the devices and puts a USB-A port and Ethernet inside. Hence, no adapters are necessary for webcam connections or more stable streaming. Don’t expect Amazon’s new Super Resolution Upscaling feature to remaster your content; it’s more about providing more minor upgrades to non-4K content.

12. XBOX SERIES S

Best game console for streaming

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Apps: 50+

· Size: 10.8 x 5.9 x 2.6 inches

· Weight: 68.8 oz

REASONS TO BUY

· Can stream 4K content

· HDR support for videos and games

· Comfortable controller

REASONS TO AVOID

· Doesn’t play games in 4K

The excellent (and available) Xbox Series S is $299 and is the best modern console that can also function as a streaming device. While it can’t render games in 4K, it can run streaming media apps like Netflix, Disney Plus, and more. If you know what Kodi is, you’ll be happy to know you can put it on the Xbox Series S.

The rest of us will be delighted to see that it also supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision HDR, and Movies Anywhere.

But since the Xbox Series S is the same price as six Chromecast with Google TVs, it’s good that it also comes with a fantastic console. Capable of outputting games at 1440p and running the gamut of all the goodies on Xbox Game Pass, the Xbox Series S is also a solid alternative to the much more expensive Xbox Series X. Its only significant drawback aside from not hitting 4K gaming is its 512 GB SSD, which can fill up fast with substantial games, and might require you to uninstall titles often.

13. TIVO STREAM 4K

A compelling UHD streamer with Android TV apps

SPECIFICATIONS

· Number of Apps: 5,000+

· Size: 3 x 2 x 0.6 inches

· Ports: HDMI, USB-C, micro USB

REASONS TO BUY

· Speedy 4K streaming

· Supports most,t if not all, services and apps

· Remote offers easy access to live TV

REASONS TO AVOID

· Poor recommendations

A ton of streaming apps? Check. An affordable price? Check. Support for your media on external storage, too? You bet. At just $40, the Tivo Stream 4K is one of the best streaming devices and deserves a place in this hall of fame. Unlike some streaming devices, it comes equipped with HBO and Peacock support. Sling users will appreciate its live TV integration, and Google Assistant will follow through on your voice commands.

Our one wish is that Stream 4 K’s Stream app, which aggregates content, had a better interface and that its recommendations were more on the nose. Plus, Hulu with Live TV and Fubo TV don’t get the red-carpet treatment that Sling and YouTube TV do.

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HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST STREAMING DEVICE FOR YOU

Figuring out the right streaming device for your needs is easy. While everyone should start with the Roku Streaming Stick 4K, your mileage may vary. If your budget is tight, the Roku Express 4K Plus can bring a lot of content to your TV without adding the clutter of a remote.

If you’re trying to stabilize your connection, the Roku Ultra and Apple TV 4K make that process easy with their dedicated Ethernet cables. But if you’re a performance-first type and watch 4K UHD content, the Nvidia Shield TV or Apple TV 4K is where you should start.

Lastly, folks who treat Alexa like a family member should consider the 3rd Gen. Fire TV Cube, which makes controlling your entertainment as easy as talking. It’s pretension, and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus remote also supports voice commands; you just have to click the microphone button, whereas the Fire TV Cube is hands-free.

If you like the Amazon ecosystem and want a cheaper device, consider the Fire TV Stick. Amazon just launched its new iteration, the Fire TV Stick HD, which we also tested, and it could serve as a proper upgrade for those who love its ecosystem.

HOW WE TEST STREAMING DEVICES

Every streaming device we review receives hours of hands-on testing. Typically, this involves installing the device on multiple TVs, evaluating the setup process, adding popular streaming channels, and using the product as our own. We use all of the major features available on the platform and note how they stack up against the competition.

To do this, we hook rival streaming devices to the same TV so we can switch back and forth quickly to compare the experiences.

The metrics we look at to rate a device include hardware design and features, remote capabilities and design, overall platform ease-of-use, practical layouts and design, search capabilities, privacy settings, the number of apps and their performance, and the overall speed and reliability of the system.

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WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A STREAMING DEVICE?

The most important thing is to select a device that matches the performance of your TV. There are Full HD and 4K devices (the latter offering better visual quality because of the higher resolution), but you need a 4K-capable TV to benefit from that.

The same applies to HDR—high dynamic range—which can again boost visual quality, but your TV has to support it. You’ll see terms like “Dolby Vision” being used, but it won’t affect what you see if your TV screen doesn’t support it.

So that’s the starting point: determine what your TV can support, then buy the best streaming device to suit your needs.

FAQs

1. What device is used for streaming?
Devices commonly used for streaming include:

Streaming sticks and boxes: Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, and Google Chromecast.
Smart TVs: TVs with built-in streaming capabilities, such as Samsung, LG, and Sony Smart TVs.
Game consoles: PlayStation and Xbox systems.
Mobile devices: Smartphones and tablets can stream content to TVs using apps or screen mirroring.
PCs and laptops: Stream via web browsers or connect directly to TVs with HDMI.

2. What streaming service is “now”?
“Now” often refers to NOW TV, a UK-based streaming service offering on-demand and live TV channels, including entertainment, movies, and sports. It is separate from U.S.-based streaming services.

3. What is the best device to stream to TV?
The best streaming device depends on your needs:

Roku Ultra: Offers a wide range of apps and a user-friendly interface.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max: Excellent for Alexa users and Amazon Prime Video integration.
Apple TV 4K: Best for Apple ecosystem users with high-quality streaming and integration.
Google Chromecast with Google TV: Great for those who prefer Google Assistant and personalized content recommendations.

4. What streaming device is “Now and Then” on?
The movie or series “Now and Then” can be streamed on devices that support platforms like Apple TV+, where the title is available. Devices include Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Smart TVs, and Apple TV.

5. How many streaming services are there now?
As of now, there are hundreds of streaming services worldwide. Major players include:

Global services: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, HBO Max, Peacock, Paramount+.
Regional services: NOW TV (UK), Hotstar (India), Stan (Australia), Crave (Canada).
Niche platforms: CuriosityStream (documentaries), Shudder (horror), Criterion Channel (classic cinema).

6. What is 4K streaming?
4K streaming refers to video content with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, offering four times the detail of Full HD (1080p). It delivers sharper and more detailed images, especially on larger screens.

7. Is Netflix 4K streaming?
Yes, Netflix offers 4K streaming on select titles. Requirements include:

A Netflix Premium subscription.
A device compatible with 4K streaming.
An internet speed of at least 25 Mbps.

8. What is 8K vs. 4K?

8K resolution: 7680 x 4320 pixels, offering four times the resolution of 4K. It provides incredibly detailed images, ideal for very large screens.
4K resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels, offering excellent quality for most TVs and streaming content.
While 8K is superior in resolution, content availability is currently limited compared to 4K.

9. Is YouTube TV 4K?
Yes, YouTube TV offers a 4K Plus add-on, allowing certain content to be streamed in 4K resolution. Features include:

Select live TV and on-demand content in 4K.
Ability to download recordings for offline viewing.
Unlimited simultaneous streams at home..

FINAL THOUGHTS

Finally, there are a range of other functions on offer. You might be able to use your phone to control these devices, share photos and videos from your phone to your TV, or play games—but again, decide what’s important to you because sometimes less is more.

Share Your Experience

Streaming devices have revolutionized how we enjoy entertainment, offering endless options to suit every preference. From Roku and Amazon Fire TV to Apple TV and Google Chromecast, each device brings unique features to the table. Have you found a favorite? Or discovered a hidden gem? Share your insights and experiences with different streaming devices. Let’s help others find the perfect match for their streaming needs!