With plenty of streaming devices on the market, it’s hard to decide which one will offer the perfect balance of content, quality, and affordability. If you’re thinking about joining the cord-cutter movement and investing in a streaming device, check out our quick, easy comparison of the best options of 2020.
Best choice for the die-hard Apple fan
Apple TV 4K ()
After decades of established build quality, speed, and design prowess, Apple once again knocks it out of the park with this streaming device.
- Why it’s great: With 4K HDR visuals, Dolby Atmos immersive sound, and native Siri integration, this is the ideal choice for the Apple-loving household. All of your favorite apps are available — even apps by Apple’s competitors (like Amazon Prime Video). Also, with Apple now emerging as the newest streaming content creator, you’ll enjoy access to a full year of AppleTV+ for free with your purchase.
- Who it’s for: This high-quality streaming device will be an instant fan-favorite with viewers in Apple-integrated households. The same applies to those hoping to watch all Apple’s new and upcoming content, and those willing to spend a bit more for a great product ().
Best choice for Google-integrated homes
Google Chromecast Ultra ()
With Google Chromecast, you can expect an inexpensive, small-footprint option. It’s perfect for no-frills streamers and homes already outfitted with Google devices.
- Why it’s great: Native Android integration, Google Assistant for voice search, and a small, easily hidden device make this a great and affordable option () for access to your favorite streaming content. In between shows, you can use your TV as a giant picture frame by casting your favorite photos from your phone.
- Who it’s for: Google-integrated homes and viewers on a budget will love this simple plug-and-play device.
Best choice for gamers
NVIDIA Shield TV
NVIDIA is well-known for excellence in graphics processing, and it entered the streaming market with this robust device. A few bonus features set it apart from other options on the market.
- Why it’s great: Speed and design go hand in hand with this device’s Dolby Vision HDR, Dolby Atmos sound, enhanced upscaling, and fast performance (thanks to its NVIDIA Tegra H1+ Processor). The voice remote, built-in Chromecast 4K, and Google Assistant and Alexa integration let you incorporate it seamlessly into your home. Memory is never an issue, either, when you use the integrated microSD memory card slot. Choose from the standard streaming content apps, then get a little extra with the available game controller and a wide selection of games from Google Play.
- Who it’s for: Whether you watch movies, listen to music, or want to play your favorite games, NVIDIA Shield TV has plenty of options to choose from for $150.
Best choice for viewers on a budget
Roku Express
At around $25, Roku Express packs many of your favorite features into an ultra-affordable device.
- Why it’s great: This is a simple, no-frills device for easy plug-and-play streaming. Enjoy all of the same streaming apps as with other Roku models for a fraction of the price.
- Who it’s for: Viewers who don’t need 4K display or fancy features can still enjoy the great, streamlined access to content offered by Roku, including plenty of free streaming content from multiple apps.
Best choice for the audiophile
Roku Smart Soundbar
Take care of two home viewing needs in one — streaming apps and premium sound — with Roku’s audio-focused streaming device ($180).
- Why it’s great: Roku has designed a great soundbar with several fantastic features like speech clarity enhancement, volume leveling, and night mode for quieter viewing. You can also upgrade your sound system with an easily integrated Roku Wireless Subwoofer and Roku Wireless Speakers.
- Who it’s for: Viewers who are looking for all of their favorite Roku features and streaming apps, just with higher-quality integrated audio.
Best choice for the feature lover
Roku Ultra
Roku’s robust streaming device features an integrated ethernet port for uninterrupted viewing and has a few other exciting tricks up its sleeve.
- Why it’s great: This streaming device is a major upgrade and still only costs around $100. It’s also the most customizable Roku model yet thanks to its wired ethernet access, the ability to plug headphones into the remote for private viewing, a handy lost-remote feature, and programmable shortcut buttons.
- Who it’s for: Streamers who want to customize their viewing experience and watch their content at high speeds without worrying about WiFi range or fluctuations will love this option by Roku.
Best of the best
Roku Streaming Stick Plus
Already well-established on the streaming market, Roku created a smaller, more robust device than previous models. With more than 500,000 movies and episodes to choose from, the Roku Streaming Stick Plus provides even the most discerning viewer with plenty of choices for binge watching.
- Why it’s great: You’ll love the compact size, voice remote with TV controls, and 1080p HD, 4K Ultra HD, and HDR compatibility. And at a price point of $50, the Roku Streaming Stick Plus is a very affordable option to provide convenient access to all of your favorite content. Take it with you when you head out of town for easy streaming from anywhere.
- Who it’s for: Everyone can take advantage of the great features included in this device. All of your favorite streaming services are available, including Netflix and Hulu, as well as music apps like Spotify and Pandora. Download the Roku mobile app for quick searching and the bonus use of your phone as a remote. You can even enjoy some privacy while you watch by listening to your content through your phone and headphones.
Looking to really step up your home entertainment experience? At Adorama, we have a wide range of the best home theater tech including televisions, projectors, speakers, and so much more.
Feature photo by Nicolas J Leclercq on Unsplash
