The Best TV Streaming Devices In 2024

Over the last decade, the world has gravitated toward a new and exciting way to enjoy content. Streaming comes with a suite of pros that make it an excellent trend to jump on. From the ability to catch up on one’s favorite shows easily, to exploring shows with no commitment, streaming devices have given viewers more power than ever. Although the best TVs support streaming up to 4K resolution, a handful of them lag in terms of perks like control over content, app support, games, and often, storage capacity. It’s worth mentioning that today’s TVs don’t all come with the same shape, size, or even software support. As such, getting a decent TV with excellent streaming capabilities may cost a couple of hundred dollars.

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Aside from being relatively cheaper than smart TVs, the best streaming devices offer great picture quality and come with a wider range of content. As expected, the market is populated by a lot of streaming hardware. To help narrow the search, Game Rant has compiled a list of the best streaming devices in categories like budget, premium, and sound.

Here Are Game Rant’s Best TV Streaming Devices to Buy in 2024

Chromecast with Google TV (4K)

Best Overall Streaming TV Device

The Upgrade By The Pioneer

The Google Chromecast with Google TV comes in 2 flavors: Full HD and 4K, with the latter being able to handle most modern content with ease, coming with a dedicated remote control and tight integration with Google TV and excellent voice control thanks to the integrated Google Assistant as part of its offerings.

What’s Included

Chromecast, AC Adapter, Power Cable, Remote, Batteries, Documentation

Brand

Google Chromecast

Dimensions

0.8 x 1.6 x 1.3 inches

Pros

• Delivers excellent streaming performance
• Runs fast thanks to a decent processor
• Well-priced for what it offers versus the competition

Cons

• Has no way to expand storage beyond 8GB
• Has no USB ports

If you need a streaming device for your TV that pretty much offers everything you need at a reasonable price point, then the Google Chromecast is for you. The Chromecast is a 4K streaming stick that guarantees your TV spectacular picture quality where images come alive and look way better than on a 1080p TV. Not many streaming devices can boast of a smooth UI, but the Chromecast has managed to get it right. Feel free to do more with Google Assistant by asking it to perform specific tasks, such as launching an app or reducing the volume.

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Got kids? You can create profiles for kids, thereby ensuring that they have an exclusive space to stream child-friendly content without interfering with your watch history. You can also set a bedtime timer which keeps them from staying up late on a school night. Using insights from your subscriptions to streaming services and your watch history, Chromecast will send you personalized recommendations to check out.

However, it is not without its flaws. Its 8GB of storage should be more than enough for casual users, but those who want to install many apps may be upset that there’s no way to increase the internal storage with an SD card. Aside from the Type-C port, there’s no other port.

Xiaomi Mi Box S 4K HDR Android TV

Best Alternate Streaming Device For TV

Compact, Affordable 4K Experience

The Xiaomi Mi Box S is a household name for many as it offers excellent hardware bundled with a capable remote control to provide a seamless experience to the average household 

Dimensions

4K (3840×2160)

What’s Included

Remote Control, Batteries, HDMI Cable, Power Adapter, Manual

Brand

Xiaomi

Pros

• Runs 4K content with ease without jitters
• Has Android as an OS, supporting a wide variety of content
• Has an excellent, intuitive remote control

Cons

• 8GB of storage might not be enough for some users
• Software support is limited

The Xiaomi Mi Box S stands out as an alternative TV streaming device for folks who want to explore TV streaming options beyond the Chromecast. One of the Xiaomi Mi Box’s selling points is that it allows you to play downloaded movies and songs through external storage. Simply connect external storage to the box using the included USB-A port. Packing 2GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage, the Mi Box is designed to handle your streaming nerds without making you suffer lag issues.

The remote also comes with a voice function and Google Assistant. If you need help with, say, getting recommendations for movies, simply interact with the voice assistant. Some users have noted that the remote’s build quality could be a lot better for a streaming device at this price point. It’s also not feature-rich, meaning that essential buttons such as forward, pause, and rewind buttons are missing on the remote. To use those functions, you need to press the main button and access the aforementioned buttons which appear as screen icons.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K

Best Roku TV Streaming Device

Powerful and Portable

$39 $50 Save $11

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K offers 4K streaming quality, Dolby Vision, and HDR, allowing buyers to experience lifelike visuals all the time. The streaming stick 4K+ also comes with an improved long-range Wi-Fi receiver that offers twice the speed. This stick comes with a rechargeable remote that supports hands-free controls, private listening, and more.

Brand

Roku

Dimensions

0.90 ounces

Connective Technology

Wi-Fi

Ports (128GB Model)

HDMI 2.0b, USB for Power & Long-range Wi-Fi receiver

Pros

• Comes with Dolby Vision
• The remote is rechargeable with hands-free voice control
• Long-range Wi-Fi makes streaming more enjoyable

Cons

• Lacks Dolby Atmos support
• Voice search feature is inferior to Alexa and Google Assistant

A perfect option for viewers who love an easily customizable smart TV home screen, the Streaming Stick 4K brings a suite of features to the table. Users get an improved Wi-Fi receiver that delivers twice the speed of the former iteration. Perfect for a family, 4K allows streaming across supported platforms from any room with a strong Wi-Fi connection.

The inclusion of Dolby Vision in the package means buyers get to enjoy their favorite content with lifelike clarity and remarkable picture quality. The streaming stick’s new design seeks to draw even less attention to it, ensuring that users focus on what matters: content. It’s a perfect fit for homes with wall-mounted TVs.

Buyers can also stream content privately using wireless headphones or the wired kind that’s plugged into the remote. Compatible with Apple Airplay, Apple Home, and Google Home, this streaming stick should fit right into any home. Aside from supporting third-party voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, the Roku stick has in-built voice assistant features too. Saying ‘Hey Roku” can turn on the TV, aid in the search for a particular show, and more. In the event of a missing remote, say “Hey Roku, where’s my remote?” and it’ll play a sound to help locate it.

Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen., 2022)

Best Streaming Device For Apple TV

New, Improved 4K Juggernaut

$125 $147 Save $22

The Apple TV 4K in its 3rd generation refresh is an excellent streaming device that comes in 2 variants: base 64GB Wi-Fi only model and a 128GB Wi-Fi plus ethernet variant, both powered by its A15 Bionic SoC running its tvOS based on the latest version of iOS as it aims to become a mainstay in the living room in 2023

Connective Technology

Wi-Fi 6, Gigabit Ethernet, Thread Networking, Bluetooth 5.0

What’s Included

Apple TV 4K, Siri Remote, Power Cable

Brand

Apple

Ports (128GB Model)

Power, Ethernet, HDMI 2.1

Pros

• Has one of the best SoCs in the business
• Has a decent amount of space
• USB-C charging for the remote

Cons

• Considerably more expensive than its competition
• Skips on USB ports altogether

Need a streaming device that’s tailored to deliver the best viewing experience on AppleTV+? The Apple TV 4K is that device. Although it was first released in 2022, it’s still worth buying in 2024, especially when you consider the immense value it delivers. After all, it runs on the A15 bionic chip, which remains one of the fastest processors in the business. Aside from gaining access to the vast content library of Apple TV+, you also get to stream content in 4K, which is bundled with Dolby Vision technology for superior picture quality. To allow you to enjoy three-dimensional sound which packs the same quality as a home theater, the Apple TV 4K also ships with Dolby Atmos.

If you’ve got a mini Apple ecosystem at home comprising the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, you can do more with those devices by sharing content from them to your TV screen through AirPlay. The streaming device also acts as a smart home hub, enabling you to connect and control compatible smart devices. Unfortunately, there’s no Type-C cable included in the package, so that translates to an additional expense.

Note: Check out Game Rant’s review of the Apple TV 4K to get more insights about this product.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

The Best Amazon Streaming Device

Fast Processor Meets Wi-Fi 6

The All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max offers the best streaming experience buyers can get from an Amazon device without the hefty price tag of the Fire TV Cube while offering a simple, but efficient solution to people looking for a 4K streaming stick that can handle their content needs.

The latest version also supports the new Wi-Fi 6E protocol as well as offers double the storage and a significantly faster quad-core CPU to ensure streaming and navigation happen at blazing-fast speeds

What’s Included

Fire TV Stick 4K Max, Alex Voice Remote, Adapter, HDMI Extender Cable, Batteries, Documentation

Brand

Amazon

Pros

• Has better Wi-Fi support than the competition
• Has a speedy processor and GPU
• Is considerably cheaper than most of its competitors

Cons

• Home screen is littered with ads from Amazon
• Amazon Luna underdelivers in experience and content availability

Amazon offers different devices for you to use in enjoying the Fire TV streaming experience, but the Fire Stick 4K Max is a standout figure due to the top-tier specs it brings to the table. Unlike the base Stick model, the 4K Max gets a stronger CPU, GPU, and Wi-Fi connectivity. It also gets a boost in RAM, meaning that the odds of experiencing lags while switching from one app to the other are quite low. Also, you get to integrate the Stick with compatible smart home gadgets such as smart lights, smart locks, and smart cameras. Additionally, pressing the voice button lets you interact with Alexa and get more tasks done conveniently.

Its 16GB of internal storage is the highest any Amazon streaming device offers, 8GB more than what comes with the base model. You also get to explore content across diverse platforms such as Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+, and MAX. This stick is also a major advancement in Amazon’s push for cloud gaming. Enjoy cloud gaming using Amazon Luna, the manufacturer’s cloud gaming service, and an optional Luna controller. Unfortunately, Luna has been faulted for not offering a wide range of titles to play plus the gaming experience could be better. Also, Amazon typically floods the home screen with ads, so it’s something for you to consider before committing.

NVIDIA Shield TV Pro

The Best Premium TV Streaming Device

A Shield For HTPC Users

The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro is an Android-based Streaming device powered by Nvidia’s own Tegra X1+ SoC that offers significantly enhanced connectivity, Plex Server support, and enhanced gaming support thanks to its beefy hardware offerings.

What’s Included

Shield TV Pro, Remote, Power Adapter, Documentation

Brand

Nvidia

Dimensions

1.02 x 6.26 x 3.86 inches

Connective Technology

Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Pros

• Nvidia’s Tegra X1 is one of the faster SoCs found in streaming devices
• Has plenty of I/O thanks to dual USB 3.0 ports and BT 5.0 support
• Has enhanced gaming support

Cons

• Prohibitively expensive compared to the competiton
• Remote isn’t great

Nvidia’s Shield TV and Shield TV Pro are mainstays in the TV streaming business. They both offer a complete, powerful solution that meets the needs of most people looking to stream content in 2024. The Shield TV Pro takes it a step further, thanks to its USB and Ethernet ports and built-in support for Plex. As such, it becomes a capable Plex Media Server in its own right, allowing buyers to skip assembling or repurposing a PC for HTPC needs.

One could argue that the Shield TV Pro needs a refresh and with good reason. It no longer has the fastest SoC in the market with Amazon biting at its heels and Apple already superseding it considerably with its much cheaper Apple TV offerings powered by the A15 SoC. But the major factor here is not processing power; Nvidia is still well-endowed in this department. The Shield TV Pro does not support Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E, both of which allow for much more bandwidth available on tap for multiple streaming services.

Anyone looking for cloud gaming via GeForce Now, AI-enhanced upscaling, or just a capable Android TV box with USB ports and Plex Media server support should buy the Nvidia Shield TV Pro. That is, if buyers can justify paying the $200 premium.

Roku Streambar

The Best Streaming Device For Premium Sound

A Blend Of Premium Streaming And Audio

The Roku Streambar combines the best of two worlds (sound and video) in one device. Packing Dolby Audio along with four internal speakers, feel free to watch shows in 4K resolution with premium sound. The Streambar allows users to adjust their sound settings, automatically lowering loud commercials or increasing the volume of voices. Seamlessly activate captions or search for their favorite show with their voice. 
 

Brand

Roku

Operating System

Roku OS

Resolution

4K

Ports

HDMI

Connectivity

Micro USB, HDMI, Bluetooth

Dimensions

14 x 4.2 x 2.4 inches

Pros

• Comes with Dolby Audio
• Cinematic audio thanks to four internal speakers
• Remote control supports voice control

Cons

• Skips on Dolby vision support
• Expansion upgrades like subwoofers are expensive

The Roku Streambar caters to the needs of anyone looking for immersive streaming capabilities and a cinematic sound experience without going for a soundbar. Advertised as a powerful 2-in-1 upgrade, the Streambar makes it possible to enjoy one’s preferred show or movie in rich 4K resolution along with crisp audio. It comes with four internal speakers that work with Dolby Audio to produce rich sound. Roku claims the Streambar can deliver more sound than its rivals thanks to advanced audio engineering in its proprietary operating system. The Streambar goes further to deliver improved volume and speech clarity for the TV that it’s connected to.

Beyond enjoying entertainment with better sound quality, the Streambar allows users to customize their sound settings. They can automatically decrease loud commercials, increase the volume of voices, and fine-tune the sound output for nighttime to avoid disturbing those sleeping. The Streambar’s remote supports voice commands, so feel free to search for the best entertainment options, activate captions, and access more functionalities with ease.

Onn FHD Streaming Device

The Best Streaming Stick for Android TV

Cheap 4K Streaming Device

$30 $32 Save $2

The ONN streaming device is not only incredibly affordable but offers users access to content from multiple streaming services including Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV. Bundled with Android OS, this device is fit for downloading many apps from the Play Store alongside enjoying a new dimension of customizability. Buyers also get a voice remote that they can leverage to find, play, and control content.  Built-in Chromecast makes it possible to cast movies, shows, and pictures from smart devices to the TV. 
 

Dimensions

6.57 x 3.74 x 2.09 inches

Brand

ONN

What’s Included

UHD TV Streaming Device, Remote control, HDMI Cable, AC adapter with cable

Pros

• Built-in Chromecast makes casting possible
• Has voice remote control
• Offers a great deal of customizability

Cons

• Runs slower than most premium devices
• Lacks Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision

For anyone keen on exploring something different from popular names like the Fire Stick or Roku Stick, the ONN FHD streaming Device is an interesting new player in the game. Running on Android OS, this device can render content in rich 4K resolution, supports voice remote control, and offers a wide variety of streaming services to choose from. Instead of a stick design, the ONN streaming device gets a TV box form factor. This is a great purchase for those who enjoy consuming more content from Google Play Store app content than on third-party platforms.

The ONN device supports diverse TV brands, including Samsung, Sony, TCL, Vizio, and Hisense. Casting content like movies and pictures from an Android or iOS device to the TV is possible thanks to built-in Chromecast functionality. Alongside the device, the package contains a voice control remote, an HDMI cable, and an AC adapter with a Micro-USB cable. A major weakness of this device is that it is considerably slower than more premium devices like the Nvidia Shield. While this may not bother casual viewers, those into high-quality content streaming and cloud gaming may experience lags.

Roku Express 4K+

Best Cheap TV Streaming Device

Inexpensive Streaming Experience

The Roku Express 4K+ is designed specifically for budget-conscious shoppers who want to stream 4K content on their non-smart TVs. Beyond its ability to upgrade one’s viewing experience to 4K resolution, buyers can also customize the home screen. The remote has a voice search feature which lets them seamlessly find shows and increase the TV’s volume. Aside from the availability of many streaming services, buyers also get to enjoy a catalog of 350+ free live channels. 

Dimensions

3 x 1.6 x 0.83 inches

Brand

Roku

What’s Included

Roku Express 4K+, HDMI cable, USB Cable, Adapter, Remote

Pros

• Supports 4K, HD, HDR formats
• Allows users to customize the home screen
• Very affordable

Cons

• Lacks Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision

The Roku Express 4k+ streaming box is an excellent option for folks who want a modest 4K experience without spending a few hundred bucks on a smart TV. Starting at roughly $30, the Express 4K+ allows users to stream their favorite shows/movies and discover new ones across multiple platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. The Express 4K+ promises to render content flawlessly with superb picture quality.

Buyers can also search for shows and perform tasks like lowering the TV’s brightness level using the included voice remote. Users can also customize the home screen to match their preferences. Unfortunately, the Express 4K lacks some features found on higher-tier Roku streaming devices, like the Streaming Stick 4K. Unlike the Streaming Stick 4K, the Express 4K+ doesn’t come with Dolby Vision or a rechargeable remote. However, it’s an entry-level product, so shippers should expect some feature omissions. Despite the absence of the above features, the Express 4K+ remains one of the most inexpensive ways to stream content today on a non-smart TV.

How to Choose the Right Streaming Device

Manufacturers have been busy over the last few years releasing multiple streaming devices to address consumers’ needs. Without any background knowledge, it can be tricky when picking a great streaming stick to buy. Anyone with an older TV or simply wants to watch more content should get one. Below are some crucial factors to consider when browsing the available options.

Budget: While they are mostly inexpensive, some streaming devices have premium features which make them quite costly. Thankfully, they’re offered at different price points, meaning anyone with a tight budget should find a couple of cheap options to choose from. Before hitting the stores, buyers should strongly consider their budget.

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Type of content to be streamed: Nowadays, movies, TV shows, or sports channels aren’t the only content that can be streamed. Gaming-related content is steadily gaining momentum. When choosing a streaming device, consider one’s preferred interests. Will the content be streamed primarily on Netflix, Hulu, or Prime? Or does the user need more platforms? Knowing what one wants to watch should help them select the device that can best handle that task.

Preferred user experience: Like every gadget, potential buyers should be concerned about how it performs right from scratch. Interested in voice-enabled remotes and integration with voice assistants like Amazon or Google Assistant? Drawn to easy interfaces or encourage customization? If a device is built to deliver a seamless user experience and does as advertised, then it’s worth the purchase.

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FAQ

Q: What device is best for streaming live TV?

Roku streaming devices are ideal for streaming live TV. Buyers get access to over 350+ free live channels via the Roku Channel.

Q: Is it better to get a smart TV or a streaming device?

The major factor to consider here is cost. Most times, people with a modest budget opt for a streaming device because it is less costly to get than a smart TV. However, if budget is not a problem, then one can get a smart TV offering 4K resolution and a decent selection of streaming services.

Q: Can a smart stick work on any TV?

Provided the TV has an HDMI port, the streCan a smart stick work on any TV?aming stick will work.