The Best Streaming Device

Buying Guide

These days, most streaming devices have the same key functions and apps. While it can be hard to tell them apart, there are features and compatibilities to consider based on how and where you plan to use them.  Is 4K important to you? Are you a Prime member or Apple devotee? How about voice search? These are important questions to ask yourself before buying a streaming device.

Streaming devices can be broken into two basic categories: smart TVs and digital media players (DMPs). With a smart TV, you will have access to preloaded and downloadable apps that can be used to stream media through the TV itself. If you have a smart TV, you don’t need a separate digital media player as long as you like the interface and everything functions well for you. However, smart TVs may not have as many apps as a digital media player, and new apps may not get added as often. You’ll also want to check to make sure you can access the apps you will use the most before expecting a smart TV will have everything you need.

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Digital media players are separate devices that connect to a TV through an HDMI or USB port. They may also be called a streaming device, media player, stick or box. You’re usually much better off getting a digital media player for each of the TVs in your household, as streaming apps are usually made specifically for these devices and will be updated more frequently than with a smart TV. Gaming systems, like Play Station and Xbox, can also be used for streaming.

Most digital media players or streaming devices plug into your TV and play directly from the device. Some, like Chromecast, play content from your computer or phone by using a “casting” function that communicates with your TV. Apple TV 4K also has this ability using AirPlay, but you can just play directly from the streaming device as well.

All standalone streaming device options are fairly similar, and your choice really depends on the type of media you want to access and what kind of devices you already have and use in your household. The Roku Express and Roku Streaming Stick+ are the most open devices, meaning they aren’t tied to a particular service or suite of devices like Amazon or Apple. While the Amazon Fire Stick offers you all of the same apps as a device like Roku, the experience is greatly improved and has more features if you are Prime member.

If you’re a real movie buff, with a new 4K TV and a separate sound system, you’ll want to get a streaming device that is compatible with these upgraded experiences, such as the Roku Streaming Stick+ or the newest version of the Amazon Fire Stick.  If you also have lots of digital content through iTunes, you should highly consider Apple TV 4K.  If you use other Apple products, you can also view photos and videos through the streaming device.

Despite all of the talk around “cord-cutting,” you may need a cord or two to start streaming. You will need a TV with an available HDMI port, a strong Wi-Fi connection, a nearby power outlet and adapter. Depending on the device you may need an HDMI cord or extender. The Amazon Fire Stick and Roku Streaming Stick+ can connect directly into the TV HDMI port. If you don’t have Wi-Fi you’ll need to connect directly with an ethernet cord. Apple TV 4K has an ethernet port and so does Chromecast, but many other streaming devices do not.

Every streaming device comes with a remote. They usually have far fewer buttons than the remotes you may be used to, but a lot of the same functions can be found on screen or aren’t necessary. Several streaming devices offer voice remotes that allow you to search, control and call up specific content with your voice commands. The Amazon Fire Stick uses an Alexa for it’s remote, while Apple TV 4K uses Siri and Roku Streaming Stick+ uses their own voice functionality.

You actually have a lot of options for what you use as a remote with streaming devices. If you’d rather not use the small, basic remote most of these devices come with, you can also typically use your phone as a remote if you download a compatible app. Apple TV 4K can be controlled with an iPhone, iPad and even Apple Watch. To get rid of multiple remotes, there are universal and smart remote options that can control streaming devices and sometimes other smart home technology as well.

Streaming devices are relatively affordable. Other expenses involved in streaming include your Wi-Fi cost and any additional cords or connectors needed (although most come with everything you need). Some streaming apps are free, but others require a paid subscription to the app itself, a service like Prime or to a cable or satellite provider to use. Overall, many find streaming attractive because of the wide variety of content available, as well as the lack of big, expensive equipment and generally lower costs.

• To stream successfully, there are certain internet speed requirements that will make your experience better. Internet speed is measured in megabits per second or Mbps (also Mb/s). For standard definition viewing, 1.5-2.5 Mbps is recommended, while 6-8 Mbps is required for HD video. If you have a 4K TV, you can stream with 15-25 Mbps, but 25 Mbps is generally preferred.
• If you choose to get an Amazon Fire Stick, you may want to consider a Prime membership to get more out of your device.  In addition to easily adding extra channels, having access to exclusive Prime content and Prime Music, you can also control  Amazon Echo, Tap or other compatible smart home devices with your Alexa voice remote.
• Streaming devices do not come with antennas for watching over-the-air TV. If you don’t plan on signing up for an app with live TV options you will need to buy an HDTV antenna to receive over-the-air channels. If you do opt for an app with live TV, make sure it has the local channels you want, not all services have all channels.
• Most streaming players don’t have built-in DVR. You may be able to add it to your services with certain apps, like DirectvNow, or buy an additional device, such as TiVO. Or you can wait for the show to become available on demand. Make sure you check to see what kind of storage space you have and how long you’re able to keep your shows. Some offer unlimited time while others will only give you 30 days.
• If you’re not ready to cut cable or satellite, but still want to try streaming, you can start with a budget-friendly option like the Roku Express. Then, if you find yourself using streaming services more often than not, you can always upgrade to a more full-featured device like the Roku Streaming Stick+ or Amazon Fire TV Stick.
• One of the best features of a compact streaming device is being able to easily move it or bring it with you. All you need is an HDTV with an HDMI port, a power outlet, and a Wi-Fi connection. You don’t have to worry about not having access to your favorite shows or movies while staying in a hotel or on vacation.