If you're in the market for a new streaming device, chances are you want to improve your home theater experience. Maybe you've been relying on your phone or tablet to binge watch content on your favorite video streaming services, or perhaps your TV's built-in operating system just isn't cutting it anymore. Streaming dongles, like the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite, and set-top boxes, like the Apple TV 4K, are ubiquitous at this point, but sussing out the differences between them can be challenging. Plus, they're not the only gadgets that can deliver your latest Netflix, Peacock or or live streaming TV obsession to your screen. Let us break down all of the options you have today and give you our picks for the best streaming device you can buy.
Quick Overview
  • Best streaming stick

    Roku Streaming Stick 4K

    $40 at Amazon
  • Runner up

    Chromecast with Google TV (4K)

    $49 at Amazon
  • Best budget streaming stick

    Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite

    $20 at Amazon
  • Another budget option

    Roku Express HD

    $27 at Amazon
  • Best set-top box

    Roku Ultra

    $99 at Amazon
See 3 more

Who needs a streaming device?

It’s worth pointing out that if you only use a couple of streaming services (say, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video), you might not need a standalone streaming device. Most modern televisions ship with a basic selection of apps that usually include the most popular streaming services. Some TVs and soundbars run on built-in Roku or Fire TV operating systems, which offer a robust selection of apps without the need for a separate device.

But if your TV is on the older side, adding a streaming stick is obviously much cheaper than shelling out for a new smart TV. Also, a dedicated streaming device typically has access to a lot more streaming services and apps, while content is often presented more intuitively. Some devices also offer better search features, including voice control. Cord cutters in particular will benefit from this sort of streaming hardware, as live TV services like Sling TV and Hulu Live aren’t always available in basic TV interfaces.

How to pick a streaming device

The most important things to keep in mind when choosing a media streaming device are platform, price and what you already have in your home. Currently, the most popular streaming platforms are Roku, Amazon’s Fire TV, Apple TV and Google TV (which is an overlay on top of Android TV). All of them offer a similar selection of streaming services, with the primary differences being the user interface. Roku, for example, has a basic grid layout, while Fire TV and Google TV emphasize personalized recommendations.

The prices for streaming devices typically start at around $30, and can go all the way up to $200. Sticks or dongles are generally more affordable, while set-top boxes tend to be pricier. The main reason to opt for a streaming box over a dongle is if you need Ethernet connectivity. Some models also have additional features like Ethernet ports and faster wireless connections. (Roku’s set-top boxes, for example, have Dolby Vision, while its sticks don’t.) Another benefit of a set-top box is that they’re faster than older TV processors and are easier to upgrade over time.