Whether you’ve cut the cable or are looking to add internet TV to your viewing options, you need a streaming device that fits your budget, system, and lifestyle.
As more and more people cut the cable and connect their TVs to the internet, finding the best streaming device for internet TV is becoming a hot topic. Streaming devices send content from your mobile phone, tablet, or other device to your TV screen so you can watch your favorite shows and movies on the big screen in clear, sharp images. Streaming devices come in a wide range of prices and have almost the same number of features. Here are the key aspects to consider before choosing a streaming device.
Streaming Devices
One of the most important decisions you’ll make before buying a streaming device is which content delivery service you’ll use. One of the most popular content providers is Amazon, which offers content from its Amazon Prime Media, Amazon Instant Video, and Amazon Prime Music platforms through Amazon Fire TV and Amazon Fire TV Stick. By adding separate apps, you can also watch shows and movies from Netflix, Sling TV, PlayStation Vue, HBO Now, and Hulu Plus.
Roku offers one of the widest selections of content through its six streaming devices, including the affordable Roku Express, Roku Streaming Stick, and Roku Ultra. The Roku Channel Store doesn’t market its own content. Instead, it gives you access to thousands of streaming providers, including Amazon Instant Video, Netflix, Sling TV, Hulu Plus, Twitch, Google, YouTube, and many others, including many smaller media outlets that aren’t very affordable.
The main app that doesn’t offer this feature is iTunes. If you’re an Apple user, you’ll need a streaming device that’s compatible with all of your other iOS devices, like the Apple TV 4K. This gives you access to content from major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Sling TV, as well as Apple apps like iTunes, which are often unavailable on non-Apple systems. However, you can’t run competing apps like Spotify.
Resolution
Another big concern these days is resolution. Thanks to technological advances, you can enjoy the sharpest and most accurate images to date, but it depends not only on the size and resolution of your screen, but also on the compatibility of your streaming device. Let’s say you’re looking for a high-end device with excellent picture quality and Dolby surround sound. In that case, your best options are the Apple TV 4K or the Nvidia Shield, which offer excellent resolution and sound quality. The Amazon Fire TV, Roku Streaming Stick Plus, and Roku Ultra all offer 4K resolution and HD options. The Google Chromecast Ultra deserves special mention for having the most HDR options and a relatively low price.
Controls
Another thing to keep in mind is that you’ll have the ability to control channels and search for content. Streaming devices typically include on-screen menus and dedicated remotes, making it easy to find content without leaving your couch.
Voice control is handy, especially when it includes native language support, so you can ask “Show me the latest episode of ‘Homeland’” instead of typing the request. The Amazon Fire TV and Amazon Fire TV Stick are compatible with Alexa, though only the Amazon Fire TV will respond. The Apple TV 4K is integrated with the Siri voice assistant, and the Nvidia Shield connects to Google Home so you can use your Google Home system to control what’s on your TV. The Roku Ultra and Roku Streaming Stick Plus have a voice search option, so you can even send commands to others.
Price
No matter what you’re buying, price is always a consideration. will be a factor in your purchase. You can get very effective streaming devices for as little as $30, such as the Roku Express and the Amazon Fire TV Stick, both available for $29.99, or the Google Chromecast, which typically costs around $35. While it doesn’t include extra features like voice control, HD or 4K picture resolution, or other perks, you’ll have reliable access to the same content as the brand’s more expensive models.
On the other hand, more expensive streaming devices cost upwards of $100 with much more advanced features. The Apple TV 4K costs around $180 for advanced 4K resolution, Siri voice assistant, and other perks, while the Nvidia Shield costs $200 for an intense and immersive viewing and gaming experience.
There are also plenty of mid-range options that sell for between $50 and $70, like the Roku Streaming Stick for $48.58, the Google Chromecast Ultra for $69.99, and the Amazon Fire TV for $49.99.
Features
All streaming devices share content from your device to your big-screen TV. However, if you’re having a hard time choosing between models, there are some extra features that you may not need but will enjoy. A high-speed streaming connection is a great addition, especially useful for gamers who don’t want to be interrupted by anything. The Nvidia Shield provides a high-speed connection, so your reflexes are the only thing slowing you down.
The Amazon Fire TV is unusual in that it offers a web browser right on your TV screen, turning it into a larger version of a desktop computer. Let’s say you have an older TV that doesn’t have an HDMI port. In that case, you’ll appreciate the traditional AV input cable that comes with the Roku Express, making it the only streaming device compatible with your older screen.
The Roku Ultra has a lot of features, including a wired Ethernet connection for faster content downloads, a MicroSD slot for easy photo viewing, a headphone jack on the remote, and a button to find the remote. It also includes a smart nighttime listening mode that continuously adjusts the volume so you don’t miss out on your sleep.
Start Streaming TV to Your Screen Today
With so many options, content sharing systems, price ranges, and resolution levels, there’s nothing stopping you from finding a streaming device that fits your device, budget, and preferences. Expand your TV experience by watching TV online today.
