10 Streaming Devices to Take Your Viewing Experience to the Next Level

Imagine your friends telling you about a highly-rated show, but you can’t find it when you try streaming it online on your smart TV. Or you are scrolling on social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok, and you come across an interesting show but can’t find it online through your TV. You will feel bad, right?

Even though modern smart TVs allow us to enjoy watching content from our favorite apps such as YouTube, stream movies, and listen to music, some offer just the basic shows.

Your cable company will also charge you based on the number of channels that you want to watch. Also, some of these smart TVs don’t have appealing user interfaces.

The good news is that you can access all your favorite apps using a streaming device.

Types of streaming devices

• Smart TVs: These have built-in streaming capabilities that allow you to access various applications online. The number of shows and games you can access on a smart TV differs depending on its features and operating system. 
• Streaming sticks: These are small, portable devices you can connect to your TV and access thousands of channels. The features of streaming sticks differ from one model to another. 
• Gaming consoles: Gaming devices such as Nintendo Switch and PlayStation have built-in streaming capabilities that make it easy to install apps and stream games. 
• Top-set boxes: These devices provide streaming capabilities to TVs without smart device capabilities. For instance, digital TVs can still be converted to smart using top-set boxes. 

There is one challenge, though; hundreds of streaming devices exist in the market, and knowing what suits your needs might not be that straightforward. 

We want to eliminate doubts from your mind as we review different streaming devices and help you make an informed decision. 

NVIDIA Shield TV

NVIDIA Shield TV is an excellent pick if you want to improve your TV experience and enjoy watching Netflix, Prime Video, and Vudu in 4K HDR. After connecting the device to your TV using the HDMI cable, you can say goodbye to all other chords as NVIDIA Shield TV is wireless, and you can now cast all your favorite apps using the built-in Chromecast 4K. 

Preview	Product	Rating	Price
	NVIDIA Shield TV | 4K HDR Streaming Media Player		$184.99	Buy on Amazon

You can see all the results on your TV using the built-in Google Assistant to check the traffic, share photos and listen to music. 

Key Features:

• 4K HDR home theater: Enjoy 4K HDR video quality, Dolby Atmos, and DTS-x Surround sound. 
• Smart home ready: You can use Google Assistant to control smart devices such as bulbs and thermostats with your voice. 
• Enjoy Google ecosystem: Access most Google services, such as Google Play and Google Assistant, while using this device. 
• Super performance: NVIDIA Shield TV is fast enough to be a game console, a streamer, a smart home hub, and a media server. 

Fire TV Cube 

Fire TV Cube has an octa-core 2.0 GHz processor, making navigation and opening apps a breeze. This streaming device has Wi-Fi 6E support, translating to smooth streaming, and you can also use the other ports to connect various devices in your home. 

Preview	Product	Rating	Price
	Amazon Fire TV Cube, Hands-free streaming device with Alexa, Wi-Fi 6E, 4K Ultra HD		$139.99	Buy on Amazon

Fire TV Cube has a built-in HDMI input to connect all your supported cable boxes. You can also take advantage of Alexa and control the apps on your TV using your voice. 

Key Features:

• Fast: This streaming device is powered by an octa-core processor, and you can thus open and switch apps seamlessly.
• Smart home hub: Using Alexa voice control, you can control your smart home devices, such as thermostats and bulbs.
• Hands-free Alexa support: You can control all your compatible devices, such as TVs, soundbars, and the surrounding devices, with your voice. 
• Privacy first: Fire TV Cube is made with privacy in mind. For instance, it has an off-button that electronically disconnects all the microphones while not in use. 

Chromecast with Google TV (4K)

Chromecast with Google TV is the perfect streaming device to enjoy all the entertainment you love as you stream TV, movies, music, and live shows in 4K. This streaming device is compatible with almost every TV with a HDMI port. 

Preview	Product	Rating	Price
	Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K)- Streaming Stick Entertainment with Voice Search – Watch…		$49.98	Buy on Amazon

You can get all your favorite apps for streaming music, videos, live streaming TV, games, and more from Chromecast with Google TV without leaving its interface. 

Key Features:  

• Easy installation: Chromecast with Google TV is a plug-and-play device. You only need this streaming device, an internet connection, and a TV set. 
• Fast connection: You can use the 2.4 or 5 Ghz networks to connect to your home devices and experience uninterrupted streaming experience. 
• Parental controls: Create child profiles, customize them with avatars, and control what people in your household can access on the TV.
• Voice control: Use the Google Assistant button on your remote control and your voice to control actions on your TV. 

ONN Android TV 4K UHD

ONN Android TV turns your regular TV into an ultra HD device as you enjoy your favorite shows and stream your favorite movies and shows. This device runs on Android, which means you access some of the best apps Google Play offers.

Preview	Product	Rating	Price
	ONN Android TV 4K UHD Streaming Device with Voice Remote Control Google Assistant & High Speed HDMI…		$32.00	Buy on Amazon

Use your existing Google account or create one through simple steps and start using this amazing streaming stick. 

Key Features:

• Chromecast built-in: On top of using ONN Android TV with your TV, you can also cast movies and music from your Android and iOS devices for better viewing. 
• Voice remote control: Turn on Google Assistant and control what is displayed on your TV screen using your voice. 
• High-quality audio: ONN Android TV gives crystal clear audio to ensure you get the best entertainment value. 

Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K Ultra HD

Xiaomi Mi TV Stick is a compact, portable streaming device that brings smarter life to your TV and other displays. This stick runs on Android 11, giving you access to over 7000 apps that you can run on your TV. 

Preview	Product	Rating	Price
	Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K Ultra HD Streaming Device, Android TV 11 with Google Assistant Voice Remote…			Buy on Amazon

Say goodbye to poor resolutions as Xiaomi Mi TV Stick allows you to stream movies and videos from your favorite platforms in 4K quality. Improve the audio output of your devices as you enjoy what Dolby Atmos and DTS HD technology has to offer. 

Key Features:

• Fast and powerful: Load your favorite apps on this TV stick fast, as it supports 2.4G and 5G WiFi modules. You can also switch from one app to another without leaving its interface. 
• Chromecast built-in: You can cast your Android or iOS devices to your TV screen and enjoy a large view of your movies and games. 
• Small and portable: The Xiaomi Mi Stick is compact; you can carry it around and stream movies, regardless of whether you are home or away.

2021 Apple TV

You will also love the 2021 Apple TV if you love Apple devices. This TV stick connects with your TV through an HDMI cable and allows you to access Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Max, HBO, and more. 

Preview	Product	Rating	Price
	2021 Apple TV 4K with 32GB Storage (2nd Generation)		$126.95	Buy on Amazon

Key features 

• Fast: Data transfer is fast as the 2021 Apple TV is a dual-band device with 2.4GHz and 5GHz modules. 
• Great sound: Dolby Atmos offers immersive sounds to make your movies and videos more enjoyable. 
• Siri remote: You can use Siri Assistant to switch between apps on your TV. 

Roku Ultra 4K

Roku Ultra is a streaming device powered by a quad-core processor to ensure you launch apps fast. This streaming stick has an amazing user interface that makes it easy to select/ save your favorite apps and shows. 

Preview	Product	Rating	Price
	Roku Ultra | The Ultimate Roku Streaming Device 4K/HDR/Dolby Vision/Atmos, Rechargeable Roku Voice…		$99.00	Buy on Amazon

You get over 3000 free live TV channels when you buy Roku Ultra. This streaming device is compatible with most TVs that have HDMI ports. 

Key features

• Hands-free voice controls: You can use your voice to control what is displayed on your TV. Say “Hey Roku,” and continue with your voice commands to select your favorite shows. 
• Cinematic streaming: Stream all your movies in 4K, Dolby Vision. 
• Private listening: You can plug your headphones into the remote control and enjoy your movies/ music/ shows without disturbing others. 

RockTek G2 4K Android TV 11.0

RockTek G2 4K Android TV connects with your TV to allow you to stream movies, music, games, YouTube videos, and more.  

This TV box runs on Android 11, allowing you to download thousands of certified apps from the Google Play Store and use them on your TV in 4K.

Preview	Product	Rating	Price
	RockTek G2 4K Android TV 11.0 Streaming Box, Netflix & Google Certified TV Box with Google…		$149.00	Buy on Amazon

Key features

• 4K HDR: Enjoy extra-clear videos as this device supports 4K Dolby Vision streaming. 
• Built-in Chromecast: You can cast your smartphone or tablet to your TV using this device and enjoy a wider view as you stream music, movies, and games from your mobile devices. 
• Fast: Pairing this Android box with your mobile devices, launching and switching apps is easy and fast, courtesy of this device’s 2.4G/5.0G Wi-Fi 6 & Bluetooth 5 technologies. 
• Voice control: You don’t have to keep scrolling keys on your remote control; you can use Google Voice Assistant to access various apps. 

Roku Streambar Pro

Roku Streambar Pro brings 4K quality to your TV as you access some of the best streaming apps. This streaming device comes with an HDMI cable, making it compatible with most TVs with an HDMI port. 

The remote control of this device allows you to switch different apps, adjust the volume and power your TV on and off using one gadget.

Preview	Product	Rating	Price
	Roku Streambar Pro | 4K HDR Streaming Device & Cinematic Roku Soundbar All In One, Roku Voice…		$179.00	Buy on Amazon

Key features 

• Plug and play: All that you need is included in the package. Connect Roku Streambar Pro to your power source, connect it to the TV through an HDMI cable, and start streaming your favorite programs.
• Soundbar included: Enjoy high-quality sound from the included soundbar with simple but powerful sound settings. 
• Roku Voice control: You can access various apps on your streaming device by activating the Roku Voice control. 

Dynalink Android TV Box

Dynalink Android TV Box gives a smarter way to get more out of your TV by allowing you to stream movies, videos, music, play games, and more effortlessly. This Android TV box connects to your TV through an HDMI port and has 8GB of internal memory. 

Preview	Product	Rating	Price
	Dynalink Android TV Box, Android 10 Support 4K HDR Smart Streaming Media Player			Buy on Amazon

Key features 

• Android OS: You can access different apps from Google Play Store and download those suits your needs right from your TV. 
• 4K resolution: Enjoy clarity while streaming music videos and favorite movies on the 4K Ultra HD resolution. 
• Chromecast built-in: Cast your smartphone or tablet to your TV and enjoy a wider view as you stream movies or play games on your mobile devices. 

Conclusion

Above are some of the streaming devices that increase the capabilities of your smart TV. Some of these streaming devices come with speakers, while others don’t. The ultimate decision on what to pick will depend on your budget, compatibility with your TV, and the features you are looking for in a streaming device. 

Next, you may also read about Google TV vs. Roku.