Although streaming services are now standard on most smart TVs, the speed of navigation and app selection can vary greatly depending on the model. A standalone streaming box or stick may be just what you’re looking for if you’re looking for speedier performance and a wider range of providers.
Streaming video and audio is made simple with these little devices that connect to your monitor. There are even some that have built-in digital assistants in them. Anybody with an old “dumb” TV who wants a little more smarts can benefit greatly from using separate streaming players.
For those who want to transform any HDMI-capable TV into an entertainment center, we’ve compiled a list of the top streaming sticks and boxes on the market. Inquire about how Insider Reviews conducts product testing and research.
The 10 Best Streaming Device Reviews
Roku Premiere | HD/4K/HDR Streaming Media Player
As an improvement over the previous Roku Streaming Stick Plus, the Streaming Stick 4K offers a few new features as well. Even yet, the king’s position hasn’t altered much, and the only thing that’s changed is that there are improvements to be had.
This Roku stick now has Dolby Vision, ensuring that your favorite streaming shows have the proper color balance and contrast when viewed on compatible displays (provided your TV supports it, too). Aside from that, the $50 Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a great value for the money, offering quick navigation and fluid streaming.
Everything you could possibly want is on there. When we tested the Chromecast with Google TV, programming went to 1080p and then 4K in quick order, and app loading times were comparable.
Roku, on the other hand, has a wonderfully simplified design that prioritizes applications over content, making it the ultimate winner. And if you want to listen to your programs privately using the Roku app and wireless headphones without disturbing anybody, the better performance is a pleasant boost.
Pros
- Relatively affordable
- Full 4K HDR capabilities
- Finally has Dolby Vision
Cons
- Dolby Atmos is missing
- Amazon offers better live TV integration
Google Chromecast – Streaming Device with HDMI Cable
Incorporating the Chromecast inside Google TV expands the functionality of the company’s standard streaming device significantly. To begin, 4K UHD streaming with HDR and Dolby Vision compatibility and Dolby Atmos for immersive audio is available. Dolby Vision compatibility has been introduced to Chromecast with Google TV in a recent update, resulting in even greater picture quality.
You may also use the approximately 6,500 Android TV applications using Google TV, which is an interface and operating system on the Chromecast. That includes HBO Max, Disney Plus, and Peacock, in addition to Netflix. This includes Peloton as well. There aren’t many other streaming gadgets that can make the same claim.
The new Chromecast remote may potentially replace your TV’s control, even if it isn’t the basic streaming device that the Chromecast 3 was. A TV Input button lets you switch between other devices, such as game consoles, and the power and volume settings on your TV. In addition, at $49.99, it is less expensive than Google’s previous 4K streaming gadget, the Chromecast Ultra. As far as streaming gadgets go, this is a clear winner.
Pros
- Sensible layout
- Lots of streaming services
- Remote included
Cons
- General Google searches poorly formatted
NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro 4K HDR Streaming Media Player
There are few streaming gadgets that look as unique as the 2019 Nvidia Shield TV, which looks more like a mobile power charger than anything else we’ve ever seen before. You’ll be able to view virtually anything in UHD 4K on this tube for your TV, thanks to its hundreds of applications and fast output of UHD 4K video. And because it’s so little, it can easily fit into the ever-expanding area around your television.
In addition to a gaming controller, this Shield TV also comes with remote control. When you pick up the remote in the dark, it glows, which is one of our favorite features. Thanks to PlayStation 4 and Xbox One controller compatibility, you won’t notice the lack of a pre-installed controller.
You get the greatest streaming gadget for those who are prepared to invest a little extra. In addition, the Shield TV supports 4K HDR streaming, making it the ultimate streaming device for individuals who want to both game and watch at the same time.
Pros
- Excellent game-streaming
- Quick rendering of UHD content
- Lots of great apps
Cons
- AI upscaling doesn’t add that much
- Somewhat expensive
Introducing Fire TV Stick 4K Max streaming device
The presence of the Fire TV Stick 4K Max on this list is remarkable in and of itself, as we haven’t seen a Fire TV Stick in a while. It is able to address Amazon’s long-standing performance concerns, both in general navigation and in the time it takes for some apps to launch.
If you have a router that supports Wi-Fi 6, then this is an excellent option for you. Additionally, the remote’s Live TV button makes it simple to access the TV Guide for your preferred cord-cutting app.
Aside from that, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a rather ordinary streaming device. It’s a matte black dongle with all the applications you need, and it supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HDR10+ audio and video formats.
For the same price as the current Fire TV Stick 4K, we simply wish it were a replacement for it, and not an additional $5. The Amazon Fire TV streaming gadget is still the best option for people who wish to use it. Because it’s worth the extra money.
Pros
- Faster performance
- Neat live TV integration
- All of the apps
Cons
- Amazon and ad content abound
- Should just be a new 4K Fire Stick
Roku Streaming Stick+ | HD/4K/HDR Streaming Device
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for the greatest streaming device with the best control that Roku has to offer. With this bundle, which includes the Roku Streaming Stick 4K and the Roku Voice Remote Pro, you’ll save $10 on your purchase. You can manage your TV even if you can’t find your remote thanks to the remote’s always-on voice commands.
You only need to be able to hear it well enough to yell it. Additionally, this remote’s battery life is prolonged by its ability to be recharged. There’s also an on-screen keyboard that can be programmed, so you don’t have to stick with the four branded app buttons on the remote.
Like the normal Streaming Stick 4K, this is a terrific streaming gadget in and of itself. What you get is an easy-to-use system that can be customized to your liking as well as fast performance and a wide variety of apps (everything you could ask for, though YouTube TV is buried in YouTube at the moment). Dolby Vision is a major feature of this device and will ensure that your material appears as it should.
Pros
- Voice Remote Pro eliminates batteries
- Snappy 4K HDR streaming
- Gains Dolby Vision
Cons
- No Dolby Atmos
- Not a big upgrade from the previous model
2021 Apple TV 4K (32GB)
The new Apple TV 4K (2021) is fantastic and works flawlessly, however, if you already own the old model, it’s debatable if it’s worth the investment. The second-generation Apple TV 4K looks just like the first. A12 Bionic replaces the A10X chip, which has been deactivated.
The Apple TV 4K 2nd generation supports 4K at 60fps with HDR instead of 30fps, this performance appears to be slightly improved. Even while there aren’t many applications now offering this kind of content (mainly sports and other fast-paced action), it’s likely to become more common in the coming years.
The revamped Siri Remote is the finest part of the new Apple TV 4K. Many people, including me, despised the previously remote and its vexing touch-screen interface. The new remote still use touch and gestures, but it still has physical buttons and a jog wheel, evoking memories of older iPods. However, once again, the most significant disadvantage is the cost.
Pros
- New, improved remote
- High frame rate HDR streaming
- Multi-user support
Cons
- Expensive
- Not noticeably better than first-gen
Roku Ultra | Streaming Device HD/4K/HDR/Dolby Vision
A few adjustments have been made, but the new Roku Ultra is still the wonderful streaming box it always was, with most of the benefits you’d expect for $100. (4K HDR video and fast performance for starters). A few examples: Dolby Vision is a must-have for individuals who stream high-quality movies and TV shows.
Additionally, a USB connector is included, allowing users to watch movies stored on their computers on their TVs. In fact, you don’t have to understand anything about media servers at all. Faster processing power and improved wifi streaming are also included in this year’s model.
In addition to the pre-programmed buttons for Netflix, Hulu, Sling TV, and Vudu, you can use the Roku remote’s two programmable buttons to launch your favorite channels.
A nice bonus is the pair of in-line earbud headphones that come with the remote control for hands-free listening. People who don’t want to bother the other person in the room when they’re watching TV will find this really useful.
Pros
- Great performance
- Inventive remote control
- Dolby Vision HDR
Cons
- Expensive
- Not much has changed since last year’s model
Fire TV Cube, Hands-free streaming device
What if I told you that you could use Alexa to operate your cable box? The virtual assistant on the Amazon Fire TV Cube (2nd Gen) can switch HDMI inputs and tune cable channels, which is more than most other entertainment devices can do.
This new model has a quicker CPU, so commands are processed up to four times faster. People will be more likely to remain with Alexa orders and cease searching for their (still lost) remote if voice commands are used less frequently.
With its content-first design, this box (it’s not a cube) aims to reduce the amount of time it takes you to press Play. Trying to learn how to use Amazon’s cheapest streamer? ‘ Learn how to use the Fire Stick with our how-to guide.
Pros
- Speedier performance
- Alexa’s cable box controls are great
- Great 4K HDR picture quality
Cons
- Home screen can’t be edited, packs ads
- Awkward Ethernet adapter
Microsoft Xbox One S 1Tb Console
HDR video can be streamed in 4K on the Xbox One S, which costs about $500. Dolby Vision and Kodi are also coming to the console in the near future, so if that’s your thing, you’ll be able to use it. Unlike any of our previous recommendations, it can also play 4K Blu-ray movies.
The Xbox One S and other Xbox consoles will now be able to use the Movies Anywhere service, which should please anyone who has purchased movies on many platforms. As a bonus, you’ll get a fantastic video gaming system.
When it comes to the Xbox One S’ black and white style, you can’t go wrong with this sleek and beautiful system. When you have 2TB of storage space, there is no need to keep track of how many games and other files you have downloaded into the disk. Even if you can get your hands on an Xbox Series X or S, it’s not a necessity because of its limited supply and lack of new features.
Pros
- Can stream 4K content
- HDR support for videos and games
- Smartly redesigned controller
Cons
- Can’t play games in 4K
TiVo Stream 4K – Every Streaming App and Live TV
It seems like there are a lot of apps. Check. Is it reasonably priced? Check. Is there also support for external storage of your own media? Yes, without a doubt. In this hall of fame for the top streaming gadgets, the Tivo Stream 4K deserves to be included. It also offers HBO and Peacock, unlike some streaming gadgets.
Users of Sling will welcome the live TV connectivity, and the Google Assistant will be available to follow through on your voice instructions. But we’d prefer an easier-to-use app that organizes content, and better suggestions from the 4K’s Stream app.
In addition, none of the other streaming services, such as YouTube TV, Hulu with Live TV, and Fubo TV, receive the same consideration in the Guide that Sling does. A lot more fascinating if it weren’t for Chromecast with Google TV, the Tivo Stream 4K would be a lot more interesting.
Pros
- Speedy 4K streaming
- Supports most if not all services and apps
- Remote offers easy access to live TV
Cons
- Constrained live TV offering
- Poor recommendations
What to Consider When Select Streaming Device?
There are a few things to think about before investing in a streaming gadget. The first step is to make sure that a separate streaming player is necessary.
Installing a standalone streaming device is as simple as plugging in your old dumb TV’s HDMI ports. It’s a little trickier if you already possess a smart TV with access to a pre-installed library of apps.
A new device isn’t necessary if you’re happy with the number of apps, speed, and connectivity choices on your current TV. In contrast, if you’re fed up with sluggish navigation or a lack of applications on your TV, a standalone streaming stick or box is a smart investment.
As a matter of fact, you’ll want to be sure that the gadget you purchase has all the features you want. Many of the more famous streaming services, such as Netflix and Disney Plus, are available across a wide range of devices, but some lesser-known ones are not.
You should also take in mind the specifications of your television. If you have a 4K TV, you’ll need a streaming stick or box that can take advantage of the display’s high dynamic range (HDR) and 4K resolution.
Take into account the ecosystem in which you’re most embedded. When it comes to streaming, Android users may choose the Google TV, while iPhone and Mac users may prefer the Apple TV, and Alexa lovers may want to pick the Fire TV model.
However, because they work with so many different platforms, Roku devices are the most flexible. Unfortunately, there is no support for Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant on Roku devices.
Streaming Devices Tested
When evaluating streaming players, it is best to focus on the material rather than the player’s performance. A decent streaming player has simple navigation, comprehensive search options, and a large choice of material to fit everyone’s preferences.
The first thing we look at is how fast and easy it is to set up. A test of the user interface follows, in which we look at how quickly we can go to our favorite channels, what information is highlighted, and so on. Additionally, we’ll check the visual and audio quality by watching a few different episodes on a number of channels.
Then there are the extras, such as gaming, voice search, and mirroring your screen. The ultimate score isn’t affected as much by these aspects, but they’re still pleasant to have if they function and incredibly annoying if they don’t. If you don’t want to pay for streaming TV, just go to USTVGO.