The Best Streaming Devices of 2024
The Best Streaming Devices of 2024
Stream your heart out with the best streaming devices around! Compare to find which device suits your needs best.
The reviews of the products in this article are created by a team of experts that is independent from CTech's editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission.
Our Top Picks
Picture this: it's Friday night, the popcorn's popped, and you're ready to binge-watch your favorite series. But wait, the buffering is endless and the resolution, disappointing. That's where a top-notch streaming device comes in handy. We've combed through the market for these devices, assessing their performance, ease of use, and compatibility with popular streaming services. Our top picks cater to a range of needs, whether you're a casual viewer or a streaming enthusiast. It's time to upgrade your viewing experience because trust us, your cozy movie nights are about to get a whole lot better.
1 . Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device
For those who prefer to stick to their Amazon environment, this is the fastest streaming device out there. With support for Wi-Fi 6, you'll enjoy fast and reliable streaming without interruptions. This streaming device features Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, providing stunning image and sound quality that will make you feel like you're at the cinema. Plus, with access to free and live TV, you'll never miss your favorite shows or events.
Pros
Supports Wi-Fi 6, Dolby Vision and Atmos, Free and live TV
Cons
Registration may be tricky
2 . Roku Express 4K Plus Streaming Device
This is a content-objective, simple, and easy-to-use streaming device that offers you a world of entertainment at your fingertips. With support for HD, 4K, and HDR content, you'll experience stunning picture quality that brings your favorite movies and TV shows to life. The included voice remote makes it easy to navigate through your favorite streaming services and control your TV, all with the sound of your voice. With easy setup and a simple interface, accessing your favorite content has never been easier.
Pros
4K+ streaming, HDR support, Includes premium HDMI cable
Cons
Remote has limited connectivity
3 . Amazon Fire TV Cube 4K Streaming Device
You'll notice a number of standout features on this cutting-edge Amazon Fire Cube streaming device. With Wi-Fi 6E capabilities, it allows users to enjoy seamless streaming without any buffering or lag times. The 4K Ultra HD resolution ensures that you can bask in stunning picture quality, even on large screens. Plus, with support for Dolby Vision and HDR, you can enjoy a cinematic experience right in the comfort of your own living room. This device is perfect for avid streamers who want the best viewing experience possible.
Pros
Hands-free streaming with Alexa, Wi-Fi 6E for faster connectivity, 4K Ultra HD for crystal clear picture quality
Cons
Setup can be complicated
4 . Onn Android Streaming Device
In just $30, Walmart's onn streaming device stole the stage for 4K streaming. With this device, you can enjoy your favorite movies and shows in stunning 4K Ultra HD resolution, bringing your entertainment to life with vivid colors and sharp details. Plus, the included HDMI cable ensures a seamless connection to your TV, delivering the best possible picture and sound quality. We were very pleased with the performance of this streaming device, as it offers fast and reliable streaming, even on crowded networks. Plus, with the ability to access thousands of streaming apps, you'll never run out of content to watch.
Pros
4K UHD resolution, Voice remote control, Includes HDMI cable
Cons
Lots of ads
5 . Roku Streaming Device Stick
Roku is a name brand in the 4K streaming arena, and this streaming device stick by Roku really delivers. The stunning 4K and HDR capabilities, along with support for Dolby Vision, allow this device to bring your favorite movies and shows to life. The included Roku voice remote allows for easy navigation and control, making it a breeze to find and stream your favorite content. With its impressive features and affordable price point, this streaming device is a solid choice for any entertainment setup.
Pros
4K/HDR/Dolby Vision, Roku Voice Remote, TV Controls
Cons
Does not work on ethernet
6 . Google Chromecast Streaming Device
With the Google Chromecast streaming device, you can turn any television into a smart TV with just a simple plug-in. The biggest strength of this compact device is its Google Assistant compatibility, which helps you search for TV shows without any hassle. Plus, the HD version ensures that you can enjoy all your content in stunning clarity and detail. If you love to use Google services, this device will become streaming companion.
Pros
Easy streaming from phone, Voice search remote, Includes cleaning cloth and pouch
Cons
May lag at times
7 . TiVo Stream 4K Streaming Device
This is a media streaming device that has all the essentials: 4K streaming, a sleek design, and voice control. But personally, we loved how the TiVo Stream 4K features a user-friendly interface that is incredibly accurate and intuitive to navigate. This Android TV-powered streaming device provides access to thousands of apps and games from the Google Play Store, making it ideal for both entertainment and productivity. Overall, this is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their streaming experience and enjoy the best of both worlds on one device.
Pros
All-in-one streaming, 4K UHD quality, Dolby Atmos sound
Cons
Limited storage capacity
8 . NVIDIA SHIELD Streaming Device
While this streaming device may be more expensive than other options on the market, it really does combine all the essentials in one package. With its 4K HDR capability, you can enjoy stunningly vivid and lifelike visuals for your favorite movies and shows. But that's not all—this device also supports Dolby Vision and Atmos, delivering immersive audio that will truly transport you into the heart of the action. Thanks to its AI-enhanced upscaling, even non-4K content is upscaled to near-4K quality, so you can enjoy a more detailed and crisp image. And if you're a gamer, you'll love the GeForce NOW cloud gaming feature, which allows you to play the latest games without the need for a high-end gaming PC. Say hello to your movie-night BFF with the NVIDIA shield.
Pros
4K HDR movies, GeForce NOW cloud gaming, Google Assistant Built-In
Cons
Relatively pricey
FAQ
Q: Can I use a streaming device to watch live TV?
A: Yes, you can use a streaming device to watch live TV. Many popular streaming devices offer live TV streaming services such as Sling TV, Hulu Live, and YouTube TV.
Q: Do I need a smart TV to use a streaming device?
A: No, you do not need a smart TV to use a streaming device. A streaming device can turn any TV into a smart TV by connecting it to the internet and allowing you to stream content from various apps and services.
Q: What is the difference between a streaming stick and a streaming box?
A: A streaming stick is a small device that plugs directly into your TV's HDMI port, while a streaming box is a larger device that sits near your TV and is connected via HDMI cable. Both devices allow you to stream content, but a streaming box typically has more features and better performance than a streaming stick.
Q: Can I use a streaming device to play video games?
A: Yes, some streaming devices such as the Amazon Fire TV and Nvidia Shield TV offer gaming capabilities. You can also use a streaming device to stream games from services like Google Stadia or Xbox Game Pass.
Q: Do I need a subscription to use a streaming device?
A: While many streaming services require subscriptions, there are still free options available on most streaming devices. For example, you can access free content on apps like Pluto TV, Tubi, and Crackle without a subscription. However, to access premium content on services like Netflix or Hulu, you will need a subscription.
Conclusion
Streaming devices have come a long way in recent years. All of the products we reviewed offer exceptional picture quality, fast streaming speeds, and intuitive interfaces. Whether you're a casual viewer or a serious cinephile, there's a streaming device out there that will meet your needs. We encourage you to consider the options we reviewed and find the one that's right for you.
