In this era of Netflix, HULU, and Amazon Prime, a media streaming device is a must-have. But with so many options available on the market, it can become overwhelming to decide which would work best for you. In this video, we’re going to look at the top five media streaming devices available on the market today. We made this list based on our own opinion, research, and customer reviews. We’ve considered their quality, features, and values when narrowing down the best choices possible. So, here are the top five best media streaming devices:
5. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
The most budget-friendly option to stream 4K content, the Fire TV Stick has a simple and responsive user interface for easy setup and navigation. You will quickly get the hang of it, even if you are using a streaming device for the first time. In addition to 4K streaming, the stick-shaped device also supports HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. When it comes to the audio presentation, this stick-shaped device also supports Dolby Atmos soundtracks. The Fire TV Stick comes with a 1.7 gigahertz processor and an 802.11 AC Wi-Fi to make streaming smooth and fast. Powered with Alexa voice command, it offers hands-free control for video playbacks.
With a simple voice request, Alexa could give you weather updates or control your smart lights. It is also compatible with the Alexa voice control on other devices from Amazon Ecosystem. Its hardware-accelerated MPEG-2 video support gives you the option to watch over-the-air channels from an antenna. With the Fire TV Stick, you can watch your favorite shows on Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, HBO, Hulu, Apple TV, and more. You have 500,000 movies and TV series to choose from especially if you’re an Amazon Prime member. It also carries 8-gigabyte storage to give more room for apps and games as compared to other devices.
Its pros are:
- It is affordable and compact
- It offers quick Wi-Fi streaming and menu navigation
- It supports 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HDR10+
However, it lacks support for some apps like Vudu, Google Play, and FandangoNow. But with its compact design, fast performance, and Dolby vision support, Amazon Fire TV Stick is an excellent choice that will not hurt your pocket.
4. Google Chromecast Ultra
If you are looking for a simple 4K streamer, then this might give you an answer. Quick to set up and easy to use, the Chromecast Ultra is a reasonably priced streaming device. Its main functionality is casting, as suggested by its name. This device syncs with your phone, computer, or other media devices and loads it onto your TV. It uses your phone as the remote control for navigation and playback control. It also allows you to transition from a streaming app on your mobile to your TV screen with just a tap.
The Chromecast Ultra has an 802.11ac compatible Wi-Fi connection and connects to both 2.5 gigahertz and 5 gigahertz access points. It does offer not only 4K playbacks and HDR videos but also promises ultra-fast loading time. When connected to Ethernet, Chromecast Ultra loads 4K content in a matter of seconds and quickly adjusts the video to full resolution.
Its pros are:
- It is simple to use and affordable
- It provides effective 4K and HDR streaming experience
- Its functionality goes beyond streaming videos or music. It can also cast security cam feeds, games, and connect to Google Home and Assistant
However, the cons are:
- It cannot work without a smartphone, PC, or tablet
- The lack of interface can be frustrating for some people. It would’ve been easier to navigate with an interface
Still, Google Chromecast ultra remains to date one of the simplest and the most intuitive ways to stream 4K video with HDR.
3. Apple TV
With an appealing user interface and easy navigation system, Apple TV and its ever-growing features give a tough fight to its competitors. It supports all major streaming devices and allows 4K HDR streaming, as well as Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and HDR 10. The voice search functionality of the Apple TV is just amazing. Apple’s digital assistant Siri can help you find the shows and movies you want to watch, making your streaming convenient as ever. It has a super-fast Ax10 Fusion processor. With a speedy internet connection, you can enjoy the quick loading time of this device. Another bonus point of Apple TV is its amazing integration with the iOS ecosystem. For one, you can use your iPhone’s keyboard to enter text on the TV, making it feel like an extension of your mobile device.
Its pros are:
- It has an extremely intuitive user interface that provides you a pleasant experience
- It has a fast and powerful processor that allows you to watch higher quality videos without any delay
However, as the brand is known for, the Apple TV is expensive. But regardless of price, it is a fast, well-designed device with a powerful processor. It is an exceptional streaming device for Apple geeks users as it integrates well with other Apple devices.
2. Nvidia Shield TV Pro
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is the go-to streaming device for gamers. This streaming device not only offers an HDR video with 4K resolution but also provides premium gaming features. It supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, providing you with ultra-vivid images and immersive audio. Its fast Nvidia Tegra X1+ processor delivers a better gaming experience. It is more responsive as compared to the other Android TVs. A larger RAM and external USB ports allow local media playbacks. With Nvidia’s GeForce NOW service, you can stream games up to 4K resolution. The Shield TV Pro supports Netflix, Amazon Video, UltraFlix, Vudu, Disney+, and YouTube, with HDR support limited to some selected services. Many options are also available for HD streaming. Some of these are Twitch, HBO Now Vimeo, CBS, and Fox. It comes with a built-in Google Assistant. You also have the option to add voice control with Alexa, Echo, and Google Home.
Its pros are:
- It has unrivaled 4K HDR streaming capabilities
- It is equipped with Google Chromecast, so if you have any Chromecast-supported mobile app, you can throw it up to the big screen via the Shield
- Its fast processor provides an excellent experience, may it be streaming movies or video games
However, the cons are:
- Its user interface needs polishing
- It does not come with a controller anymore
- It has no storage boosting. If you are a gamer looking for a 4K HDR media streaming device, Nvidia Shield TV Pro is an excellent choice to consider
1. Roku Streaming Stick+
Offering the best content tracking system and search abilities, Roku Streaming Stick+ makes it to the top of our list. This streaming device has the largest content selection as compared to other media streaming devices. Searching for a title on Roku would give you a list of all the available apps and their price, including the free choices. No doubt, it delivers the finest features for its price. This sleek and slender device is all you need to replace all of your bulky home entertainment systems.
With its small size, it can fit into your room, TV-lounge, or pocket to take it anywhere with you. It offers 4K HDR streaming and Dolby Atmos Audio, which is the best sound format available on streaming platforms. The robust 802.11ac MIMO dual-band wireless antenna that comes with it increases the range of the device. It means you can set it up anywhere in the house. As long as it is within your home Wi-Fi range, you will be able to enjoy smooth streaming.
Its pros are:
- It has the best yet simple user interface
- It is reasonably-priced considering the features it offers
- It can output 4K HDR 10 streaming with the use of its built-in 802.11ac Wi-Fi antenna. It guarantees you a stable and fast streaming experience
- It comes with the Roku OS 8 that includes a free-to-use streaming channel. This Roku network has a variety of films and TV shows to watch for its users
However, the cons are:
- It comes with a proprietary power cable. If you lose it, you cannot just replace it with any old USB cable
- You may need an HDMI adaptor for it to fit some TVs.
Offering 4K HDR video streaming with an exceptional range and power makes the Roku Streaming Stick+ the best grab. Its wide array of content is a nice bonus compared to its competitors. And that’s all for our top five media streaming devices on the market.
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