February 25th, 2020 | Updated on March 5th, 2024
With the increasing popularity of applications such as Netflix and Amazon Prime, TV and movie watchers are looking for ways to have all of this streamable content at their fingertips, in one convenient place.
That’s why users are frequently choosing to ‘cut the cord’ and move over to streaming devices.
There are many streaming devices available on the market today, but what is the best streaming device out there?
There are many features that make up the best streaming device, but one that is easy to use and works by enhancing your entertainment viewing are the main components to look out for.
Streaming devices work by allowing you to install applications and have a whole host of content at the push of a button.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at the top five best streaming devices we’ve encountered (in no particular order) to help you choose the right one for your needs!
1. Amazon Fire TV Cube (2nd Generation)
The Amazon Fire TV Cube takes streaming devices to a whole other level.
While it is similar to the famous Fire TV Stick, this high-tech cube features a built-in Amazon Echo, so you can control the cube with the sound of your voice.
You don’t even have to press a button. It doesn’t get much more convenient than that!
The hands-free capabilities of this device make it one of the sleekest and coolest choices on our list. You can open apps, play content, and control the on/off position of the cube with ease.
The 2nd Generation model features a 16GB capacity, so you can store a huge amount of apps without overwhelming the device.
However, it is worth noting that the Fire TV Cube is more expensive than the Fire Stick, so it is not the most budget-friendly device on the market.
2. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
It wouldn’t be a Fire Stick Tricks review without, of course, mentioning the Amazon FireStick itself.
This is one of the most popular and well-known streaming devices, and there are many reasons why that’s the case.
It is a budget-friendly option if you’re looking to cut the cord, without meaning you’ll have to compromise on quality.
It features fast streaming capabilities, so you can watch your favorite movies and TV shows in high definition without waiting around for them to buffer.
The Fire Stick also includes side-loading abilities, enabling users to conveniently install apps that aren’t available on the Amazon App Store. You will also find that you can ‘jailbreak’ this device, allowing you to gain access to free movies and TV shows too.
This device also includes an Amazon Alexa Voice Remote, making it even easier to use, so you don’t even have to push a button. It features 8GB of storage capacity, along with 4K streaming capabilities.
3. Roku
Roku is a popular streaming device, which is often compared to the Amazon FireStick due to its setup.
However, there are a few clear differences from the FireStick that make the Roku device stand out in its own right.
The Roku Streaming Stick has a clear user interface that is time-tested, with the content being easy to search through too.
The remote itself is durable and won’t suffer too much from wear and tear should it get dropped.
It is overall a great streaming device for those new to the world of cord-cutting, while the Amazon FireStick is typically more cluttered in its interface, despite being higher-powered.
With Roku, you’ll have access to apps such as Netflix, Tubi, and Apple TV, along with a whole host of others.
However, it does not feature ‘side-loading’ capabilities, which means you won’t have as wide-ranging access to apps as other streaming devices.
4. NVIDIA SHIELD
NVIDIA have established themselves as a respected brand amongst the streaming device community, with the addition of their NVIDIA SHIELD to the market.
This streaming device is compatible with Android TV systems, but it does include side-loading capabilities, so you can access apps that aren’t available in the Google Play Store.
It comes with 4K streaming quality, which is enhanced by the NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor. This makes it a great streaming device for gamers in particular, due to the fast processing speed.
Depending on which model you choose, this streaming device will feature either 8 or 16GB of storage capacity, so you can pick which device will suit you and your needs.
However, it is worth noting that this is not the most budget-friendly device on the market, but its high-powered processor makes it a great choice if you’re serious about streaming.
5. X96 Max Android TV Box
This is a streaming device popular amongst gamers and streamers, and with its powerful performance, it’s no surprise as to why.
The X96 Max Android TV Box is available in either 2GB or 4GB RAM options, and features up to 64GB of storage capacity.
This is a huge amount when compared to other devices on the market, making it a great choice if you plan on installing a lot of content.
If you’re keen to side-load apps to your device, rather than using paid apps such as Netflix, then this could be the device for you. It also comes with IPVanish Compatibility, to help keep you protected.
Recap:
If you’re planning to ‘cut the cord’ on your satellite subscription, then there’s clearly plenty of great streaming devices out there for you to choose from.
Each streaming device will have its own pros and cons, but we hope our rundown of the best streaming devices has given you an insight into what to look out for when you want to take charge of your entertainment system.
Thanks for reading!
6. MAD3 Android TVBOX 4K HD Streaming
MAD3 Android TVBOX 4K HD Streaming 8K 2GB DDR4 RAM 16GB ROM 3D WiFi Bluetooth 5.0 Quad Core Streaming Devices, run fast and smoothly with excellent heat-dissipation, never worry about buffering and overheat while you are watching movies or playing games, which improve the running speed and enhances the image processing capability.
Android 9.0 OS Adapted Android 9.0 operation system for strong compatibility, it is compatible with more software, games, and applications to improve user experience.
7. Roku Express
Roku Express Streaming Media Player delivers a smooth HD streaming experience on your TV at our best price.
It’s easy to get started—just plug it into your TV with the included High Speed HDMI Cable and connect to the internet.
With a short step by step setup and an easy on screen experience, Roku Express Media Player is perfect for new users, but powerful enough for seasoned pros.
Stream what you love, including live TV, news, sports, hit movies, popular shows, and more.
8. Android TV Box 10.0
Android TV Box comes with latest Android 10.0 OS and Allwinner H616 chipset, which is faster and more efficient.
T95 android box has a better compatibility of software, games and applications, better user interface and user experience.
It comes with built-in 2.4G/5.0G WiFi and supports 10/100M Ethernet LAN.
This latest T95 android TV box supports decoding and playing almost all popular audio and video formats, you can enjoy 6K ultimate HD video, which is clearer than 4K.
Also with the 3D function, you can play thousands of android games in a large 6K screen and enjoy a higher quality experience with less buffering.
9. NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV 4K HDR Streaming Media Player
NVIDIA SHIELD TV is the ultimate streaming media player for the modern living room.
Enjoy a cinematic experience with the highest quality 4K HDR entertainment, thousands of apps, thousands of games, and the Google Assistant built in.
SHIELD TV is a high performance streaming media player, now up to 25% faster with the new Tegra X1+ processor.
Enjoy Netflix, Prime Video, and Vudu in stunning 4K with Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus surround sound.
Upscale HD video to 4K in real-time using the power of AI and the Tegra X1+ processor. Cut the cord with apps like YouTube TV, Hulu Live TV, Sling TV, and PlayStation Vue.
10. TiVo Stream 4K
TiVo Stream 4K is the first to help you find what you want to watch–across your favorite apps–without needing to switch between platforms and navigate different screens.
Recommendations from your apps are combined, giving you all your options in one place.
And with direct integration with Sling , your live entertainment has a home alongside your streaming shows and movies.
From beginning to end, from binge to browse, TiVo Stream 4K delivers an amazing Android TV streaming media player experience.
A voice control remote with the power of Google Assistant lets you find movies, check scores, dim the lights and so much more, all with your voice.
With Chromecast built-in, you can easily cast movies, music, and more to your TV from your mobile devices.
Google Play integration gives you access to a world of movies, shows, games, and over 5,000 apps.
Plus, with 4K UHD, Dolby Vision HDR, and Dolby Atmos compatibility, you can enjoy cinematic-quality viewing from the comfort of your couch.
