Best Streaming Devices 

Several streaming apps are included with almost every smart TV, but the quality isn't always the best it might be. Get a specialized streaming device if you want the greatest experience possible while viewing movies. In addition to providing faster streaming speeds and higher-quality audio and video with features like Dolby Vision and Atoms, they are also a considerably more cost-effective option than replacing your complete TV.

Nearly every major smart TV platform and streaming device now on the market has been examined by us, including Roku, Google Chromecast, Amazon, and Apple TV. A few additional additions to our list have also been made in response to freshly launched goods. While Apple's 2022 update to the Apple TV 4K managed to cut the price of one of the most costly streaming devices on the market, Google's most recent offering outperformed both Amazon and Roku in one of our categories.

Roku Express 4k Plus:

Our preferred streaming device is Roku, which offers the most streaming app choices, the most user-friendly streaming platform design, and the best search. Also, it offers a platform that is independent of content and does not favor one video streaming service provider over another, such as Apple or Amazon Prime Video. One of the least expensive 4K HDR streaming TV solutions is the Express 4K Plus streaming media player. Our preferred streaming device is Roku, which offers the most streaming app choices, the most user-friendly streaming platform design, and the best search. Also, it offers a platform that is independent of content and does not favor one video streaming service provider over another, such as Apple or Amazon Prime Video. One of the least expensive 4K HDR streaming TV solutions is the Express 4K Plus streaming media player. Your next TV will presumably support those formats, even if your current one doesn't.

Our top selection for the best streaming device overall is less expensive than the company's Streaming Stick 4K + and other 4K HDR streaming devices. Read our review of the Roku Express 4K +.

The Roku Streaming Stick 4k:

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K includes Dolby Vision support in addition to the straightforward user interface, extensive app library, and strong search capabilities featured on all Roku devices. Dolby Vision HDR, which separates the Streaming Stick 4K from the Express 4K Plus in addition to having a stick-like form, is apparently the reason for the higher price of the Streaming Stick 4K.

Although we think the Streaming Stick 4K is a fantastic product, we aren't convinced by the Dolby Vision upgrade, mostly because we don't believe it much improves the image quality over normal HDR. Nonetheless, if Dolby Vision is vital to you, this product won't let you down.

The Chromecast with Google TV 4K:

Although it falls short of the quality of Roku Express 4K +, the Chromecast with Google TV 4K is the closest product on the market. We particularly appreciate how well other Google services, like YouTube TV and Google Photos, are integrated.

Although Roku has a more modern-looking interface, we ultimately like its more straightforward approach, straightforward search results, and lower price. The new Chromecast is a better smart streaming gadget for people already residing in the Google universe.

The Chromecast with Google TV HD:

The greatest HD-only, entry-level streaming device available is the brand-new Chromecast with Google TV HD. This is the one to get if you're looking for an inexpensive streamer for your HD TV. It is quick and has the same form factor and remote as the Chromecast with Google 4K, so it can easily handle the inputs, power, and volume of your TV without requiring line-of-sight. Moreover, a built-in button for Google Assistant is included.

Some budget HD streaming devices forgo hardware features in order to charge less for their players. For instance, the remote that comes with Roku's entry-level streamer, the Roku Express, isn't capable of voice control or volume adjustment, let alone turning the TV on or off. It's not much better with Amazon's Fire TV Lite. It has Alexa support so you can operate the TV with your voice, but it doesn't have physical volume, mute, or power buttons.

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max:

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is your best option if you want a quick gadget. The Max has almost instantaneous app loading, and system navigation is quick and fluid. Even better, the Max supports Dolby Vision and almost all of the newest playback standards, including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. The Max's Fire TV platform and the fact that advertisements are clearly displayed throughout are drawbacks.

We just don't like how, in screensaver mode, the TV turns into a huge, constantly-rotating billboard for programming or advertisements. Nonetheless, individuals seeking a quick gadget or those plugged into the Amazon ecosystem should consider this. The Fire TV Stick 4K Max is the best Fire Stick currently available, yet it is pricey compared to the Fire TV Stick 4K. Read our review of the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max.

Roku Ultra:

More than twice as pricey as our top streaming device option, Roku's most expensive streaming box may be worth the upgrade for you if you find the extra capabilities appealing. The 2022 model is essentially the same as the earlier iterations, except it now has the superb Voice Remote Pro.

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus, which also comes with the Voice Remote Pro, is Roku's alternative package if you really adore the remote and want to save some money.

Though its processor isn't quite as powerful as the Ultra's, the Streaming Stick 4K can perform almost all of the same tricks, including Dolby Vision HDR.

The Ultra still offers Dolby Vision video, quicker response times than the Streaming Stick 4K, enhanced Wi-Fi, and a wired Ethernet port, which is especially useful if your home Wi-Fi is overcrowded.

Roku Streambar:

Although soundbars with built-in streaming are a relatively recent invention, Roku's new Streambar excels in this area. It offers the familiar and beloved Roku user interface, 4K HDR, and enhanced sound for any TV, particularly dialogue. Although the new Streambar video streamer device is less expensive and smaller than its predecessor, the Roku Smart Soundbar, we believe it makes more sense for most individuals.

Nvidia Shield TV:

Although the Shield only has 8GB of storage and 2GB of RAM, compared to 16GB of storage and 3GB of RAM, it is a pricey media device—and that's before you add a game controller—but if you want a multipurpose video streaming player, the Shield is it. NAS access, Plex server functionality, HDHomeRun integration, a sizable library of games (console and Android), Steam Link, built-in Google Assistant with smart home control, and more are all included in addition to 4K streaming and HDR.

Is there any monthly fee for streaming devices?

No. There are no monthly fees associated with streaming devices themselves. However, several streaming services, including Netflix, HBO Max, and Hulu, charge a monthly subscription price for access to their content.

Do we need a streaming device with a smart tv?

No, not always. The streaming platforms that many smart Televisions offer allow users to download well-known apps like Netflix and Hulu. The options on Samsung's smart TVs are pretty extensive. Additionally, increasingly popular streaming services like Roku, Google Chromecast, and Amazon Fire TV are now embedded into TVs.

When your TV's interface is missing some of the content you require, issues may occur. Customers of Spectrum who own LG smart TVs, for instance, won't be able to access the Spectrum app via LG's platform. Instead, in order to stream their cable subscription, users will need to purchase a Roku, Apple TV, or Google Chromecast.

Can we get all channels on one smart device:

Major streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime are available on every streaming device. Having stated that not all providers have access to all available streaming channels. The Spectrum TV app serves as an example once more. The majority of platforms have it, but none of the Amazon Fire TV devices have it. Before making a purchase, it can be a good idea to confirm which smartphone includes the apps you'll require. Otherwise, you might be in for a letdown when you discover that one of your preferred services doesn't have an app for you.