Best streaming device in 2024: Roku, Fire TV, Chromecast & more

Want to get a streaming device to stream your favorite movies and shows? Here’s a list of the best streaming devices you should consider in 2024.

Even though you have a smart TV, it makes total sense to get a streaming device. This helps you with a better user interface, Dolby Atmos compatibility, and 4K HDR streaming, thus improving the viewing experience. Moreover, a streaming stick makes it possible to carry your app subscriptions around while traveling or use it with a new TV if you upgrade.

Moreover, those with slightly older TVs can get new features and a better user interface and convert a regular non-smart TV into a smart connected TV.

With so many options out there, we’ve broken down exactly which streaming devices you should be paying attention to, if you’re in the market to pick one up this year.

1. Roku Streaming Stick 4K

Roku

Roku’s Streaming Stick 4K is a champion of versatility. This compact powerhouse punches above its weight, offering a user-friendly interface, access to all primary streaming services (including the elusive HBO Max), and Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support.

Its remote boasts voice search and shortcut buttons, making it a breeze to find your favorite shows. Whether you’re a cord-cutter or a seasoned streamer, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is reliable and affordable.

Though it doesn’t support Dolby Atmos, the built-in Wi-Fi extender means you’ll hardly face any quality issues or pesky buffering when streaming high bitrate 4K content.

2. Apple TV 4K

Apple

With its intuitive tvOS interface, powerful A15 Bionic chip, and tight integration across Apple services and platforms, the Apple TV 4K is hands down the best streaming device if you’re already invested in the Apple ecosystem. It is a luxurious gateway to streaming bliss. This sleek device boasts exceptional performance, stunning Dolby Vision and HDR10+ visuals, and immersive spatial audio with Dolby Atmos.

The Siri Remote is a marvel of ergonomics, and its touch surface makes navigation through menus and launching apps effortless. The tvOS interface is smooth and intuitive. You can access your existing iTunes library, stream Apple original shows and movies from Apple TV+, and enjoy AirPlay functionality. Its speed and responsiveness are second to none.

However, the Apple TV 4K comes at a premium price, and its app selection, while curated, is less vast than Roku’s.

3. Nvidia Shield TV Pro  

Nvidia

As the most powerful streaming media player currently available, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is the ultimate choice for enthusiasts seeking the best. This Android TV-powered streaming device features a powerful Tegra X1+ processor that delivers buttery smooth 4K HDR playback across all apps and games.

Though slightly dated now, with 3GB of RAM, 16GB of storage, and an option for storage expansion, it still has all the oomph needed to run demanding Android games locally with GeForce NOW cloud gaming support, too. Its impressive AI upscaling also makes HD content appear closer to 4K quality. For audiophiles, Dolby Vision, Atmos, and DTS:X support ensures the most immersive home theater experience possible.

At a higher price, it’s overkill for most but delivers unparalleled performance for power users.

4. Google Chromecast with Google TV (HD)

Google

Not everyone needs the full 4K experience, which is where the more affordable Chromecast with Google TV (HD) comes in. It delivers the beloved Chromecast design and Google TV software in an HD-only variant that’s about 20% cheaper than the 4K model. This gets the job done just fine for basic streaming needs without all the bells and whistles.

The 1080p content looks sharp on most TVs, while the same intuitive Google TV experience provides easy access to entertainment across apps and subscriptions. Audio support for Dolby Digital Plus ensures good sound quality, too. At just $30, a capable streaming stick is extremely economical for secondary TVs, kitchens, and other casual viewing areas where 4K isn’t necessary.

In case you need high-resolution content, the Chromecast with Google TV is also available in 4K and is priced at just $50, and the rest of the features remain the same on both streamers.

5. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

Amazon

If you’re an Amazon Prime devotee, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max is your ticket to streaming heaven; as Amazon’s most powerful streaming stick, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max offers an impressive feature set at a wallet-friendly price point. In addition to glorious 4K streaming and HDR support for Dolby Vision and HDR10+, it brings a faster processor with 40% more power over regular Fire TV sticks.

This results in quicker navigation, app loading, and smoother streaming overall. Built-in Wi-Fi 6 support ensures reliable connectivity as well. Alexa voice remote makes searching and launching content hands-free.

However, the interface prioritizes Amazon content, and the company has also started forcing users with advertisements to generate revenue. At only $55, it strikes an incredible value by packing many high-end capabilities into an affordable wand-sized form factor that takes up minimal room.

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