More people than ever are getting rid of overpriced plans and are turning to leaner and cheaper online streaming TV services. But, of course, if you want to stream online TV content on an actual TV, you will need a streaming device of some sort. In this tip, we’ll take a look at the various streaming gadget options out there and see which one is right for you.
Apple TV 4K
Why you would want it: Compared to its competitors, the Apple TV 4K currently has the best hardware available in a streaming box, designed to effortlessly handle 60 fps 4K, Dolby Atmos and HDR content. It also has the cleanest and smoothest interface among the lot, delivering a minimal but polished experience all around. Since it’s an Apple product, it also works great with iPhones, iPads and Macs, and it’s compatible with Airplay content streaming, Apple Music and other HomeKit appliances. If you’re already knee-deep in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple TV is a no-brainer. Note: Even if you don’t have a 4K TV yet, I recommend picking the Apple TV 4K over the 4th-gen Apple TV. For just $30 more, you’re pretty much future-proofing your system for the inevitable 4K TV you’re going to get down the road. Price: $179 for 32GB, $199 for 64GB
Roku Ultra
Why you would want it: Even with increased competition from the tech giants, Roku remains to be the most popular brand in streaming players. Why? It’s a service-agnostic platform, meaning it has apps from almost every content provider out there (except Apple and iTunes). Plus, it has hundreds of third-party video apps that offer free movies and TV Shows. If you want to access the most content from various services available, then the Roku is the one for you. For the nitty-gritty specs, the Roku Ultra supports 4K, HDR, Dolby Atmos and it’s even bundled with a pair of JBL earphones you can connect to its remote for wireless audio. Why you might skip it: If there’s a downside to Roku gadgets, it’ll be the interface and the Roku Ultra is no exception. The interface can be slow at times and it definitely looks dated. Additionally, Roku is clamping down on third-party apps. Since they update apps automatically, some of your installed apps can be deactivated without prior warning. Price: $99
You can also use your voice to search, play, pause, fast-forward and handle all the things you would normally do with a remote. You can even turn an HDMI-CEC compatible TV on or off and adjust its volume. But don’t worry if you have an older TV, the Fire TV Cube also has a built-in IR transmitter so you can use it as a universal remote and voice control any TV, old and new. For video, the Fire TV Cube has support for 4K content, HDR, Dolby Atmos. Again, even if you don’t have a 4K TV yet, if you’re in the market for a streaming gadget, a 4K capable streaming box is worth it.
Price: $119
Chromecast Ultra
Why you would want it: If you’ve ever owned a Chromecast, you’ll know that they can be extra useful around the house. With this unobtrusive little gadget, you can cast or stream content from your iOS or Android smartphone or Chrome browser to your TV. You can even cast your whole desktop if you want to. Better yet, you can also integrate Chromecasts with the Google Home and with HDMI-CEC compatible TVs, you can have usable (but limited) hands-free voice control. Now, with the Chromecast Ultra, you can cast 4K and HDR content, as well. At $70, it’s one of the cheapest streaming gadgets to do so. Price: $69
Other options
Nvidia Shield
Why you would want it: You can say that the Nvidia Shield is not in the same class as the other streaming boxes on this list. First, it was originally designed primarily as an Android gaming gadget. With that in mind, it has excellent hardware that’s capable of outputting 4K, HDR and Dolby Atmos. With the Nvidia Shield’s two USB ports, you can even connect a compatible USB TV antenna and watch and record live TV with it. If you’re looking for the best 4K hardware available but you’re not locked into Apple’s ecosystem, then the Nvidia Shield is worth a look. Why you may skip it: It’s quite pricey at $180 and it gets even pricier if you get add-ons like a gaming controller and more storage. If you’re not an avid Android gamer, then the other cheaper streaming boxes are better buys. The Nvidia Shield, excellent streamer as it is, can be a bit of an overkill. Price: $189
