Streaming Devices & Hardware

Expert reviews and comparisons of the best streaming devices to help you cut the cord.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K

★ 4.5

Roku · $49.99

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K delivers cinematic 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision streaming in a portable form factor. It plugs directly into your TV's HDMI port and disappears behind the screen.

Budget-conscious cord-cutters who want a simple, reliable 4K streaming experience.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K

★ 4.3

Amazon · $49.99

The Fire TV Stick 4K offers 4K Ultra HD streaming with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos audio. Alexa voice control is built in for hands-free navigation.

Alexa users and Prime members who want deep Amazon ecosystem integration.

Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation)

★ 4.7

Apple · $129

The Apple TV 4K is the premium streaming box, powered by the A15 Bionic chip. It delivers the smoothest interface, best privacy practices, and tight integration with iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Apple ecosystem users who want the most polished, ad-free streaming experience.

NVIDIA Shield TV Pro

★ 4.6

NVIDIA · $199.99

The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro is the most powerful Android TV streaming box available. It doubles as a Plex media server and supports AI-enhanced 4K upscaling for sub-4K content.

Power users, Plex enthusiasts, and gamers who want the most capable streaming box.

Chromecast with Google TV

★ 4.2

Google · $49.99

The Chromecast with Google TV combines casting with a full smart TV interface. Google TV aggregates content across your subscriptions into a unified home screen with personalized recommendations.

Google ecosystem users who want smart recommendations and Chromecast casting in one device.