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Best Streaming TV Devices In 2021

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This product guide was written by GearHungry Staff
Published January 10, 2020
Support us! GearHungry may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn more

It’s hard to believe that Apple TV hit the shelves over ten years ago now back in 2007. With another a decade of product innovation, the best streaming tv devices have come on leaps and bounds, and we’re excited to see what 2020 brings in terms of technological advances. From regular-looking set-top style boxes to plastic cubes and even sticks, streaming devices certainly take on a variety of design shapes and sizes. Not to mention plenty of functionality to match. It’s no longer necessary to have the best Smart TV to stream the latest movies and more.

Popular services such as Netflix, Amazon, and BBC iPlayer can be accessed via a range of different streaming box devices and media players, providing almost unlimited access to the best tv shows, series and films produced. The beauty of these devices is that they also provide silent operation and are cost-effective to operate, consuming minimal power. Many of the best streaming TV devices can also be used to display additional content stored on a laptop or PC so that you can also share your music collection at a family event or even put on the obligatory holiday slide show! So let’s delve in now and take a look at our top product recommendations in this hotly contested category.

The Best Streaming TV Device

1
NVIDIA Shield TV Pro Streaming TV Device

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We’re kicking off this product review with our Best Choice recommendation, the all-new and enhanced NVIDIA Shield TV Pro. It’s difficult to know where to start as there is just so much to talk about. So we will summarise by saying that this an incredibly complete media streamer. While it’s not the cheapest around, it features impressive functions, including [email protected] playback with AI-based upscaling technology, which can make even 360p content look super crisp and sharp.

It also comes complete with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision, which sport Amazon Prime video, Google Assistant support, and also Netflix. There’s also access to AAA gaming via GEForce Now. It’s faster, smarter, and more intelligent than ever before and really will transform your television experience turning into a full-on cinematic experience. With built-in Chromecast 4k, you can also cast all your favorite apps, photos, and videos from your mobile to your TV. It’s a truly excellent streaming device offering one of the most complete audio-visual experience on the market right now.

Key Features:

AI Enhanced Upscaling

4k HDR with NVIDIA Tegra 1 x chip

2 x USB 3.0 ports for storage expansion

3 GB Ram and 16 GB Storage

Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus

Built-in Chromecast 4K

Specification:
  • BrandNVIDIA
  • Model945-12897-2500-101
  • Weight2.1 pounds
Pros

Crisp, clear visuals

Built-in Plex media server

Surround sound

Beautiful design

Advanced remote control

Voice control

Unlimited entertainment

Cons

Expensive

Remote control not ergonomic

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

2
Roku Express Streaming TV Device

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Our next option is our Best Value recommendation and comes from Roku. Unlike the NVIDIA shield, which features a box design, this small and portable device is a stick design and, as such, is also simple and straightforward to set up and comes with a high-speed HDMI cable. It plugs directly into the back of your TV rather than having to sit underneath it, which makes it a discreet option. This Roku Streaming Stick is a hugely popular device that features intuitive navigation and offers tons of popular streaming services rights at your fingertips. We’re talking Netflix, Prime Video, HBO NOW as well as Showtime and ESPN. It also comes complete with a free Roku mobile app to deliver private listening.

It’s a great little option that delivers 4K video, and while it’s small, it’s certainly not lacking in features, including upgraded wireless connectivity, smooth overall performance, and decent remote control that’s easy to operate. As we already mentioned, there are more content channels than you could possibly ever require or handle! With simple set up and that incredibly portable design, it’s ideal to take with you on your travels, be that business or vacation. It can stream content up to 2160p at 60fps and can also upscale 720p to 1080p.

You might also like some of these reliable Siri remote alternatives for the Apple TV from our list. Check them out.

Key Features:

Connects to TV via HDMI

Delivers picture quality up to 1080p

Dolby Audio and Dolby Atmos

Tons of streaming services available

Easy to use remote with intuitive navigation

Specification:
  • BrandRoku
  • ModelRoku Express 3900R
  • Weight8.8 ounces
Pros

Portable

Easy to set up

Inexpensive

Free mobile app

High-speed streaming

Smooth service

Cons

Lack of tech support

Poor range on remote control

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

3
Apple Streaming TV Device 4K

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Unsurprisingly, we’ve picked out the latest Apple TV 4K as our Premium Pick. With ultra-fast graphics and performance as well as gorgeous good looking design detailing, this streaming device presents 4K high dynamic range with Dolby Vision and HDR10. What that means is you’re guaranteed both a stunning, crisp and clear picture, alongside superb surround sound. Apple calls the experience truly cinematic, and we have to agree. It delivers a completely immersive home experience, and thanks to Siri, you can control all the functionality with nothing more than your voice. The HDR picture is realistic, with true colors and beautiful sharp details.

Apple TV 4K is combined with a Dolby Atmos compatible sound system for three-dimensional audio that sounds true to life, enhancing that cinematic experience even further. Joining forces with some of the world’s largest TV networks, you’ll be able to access all your favorite shows and films as well as plenty of live sporting content too. You’ll also gain access to the Apple TV App which allows you to browse content on over 100 different video services and seamlessly access via your iPhone or iPad too. Not only that, but you can also view and play your photos, video, and music on the big screen with AirPlay. By connecting your Apple TV to your iPhone, you can also conveniently turn your iPhone into a TV remote. It’s currently available in two sizes, 32GB or 64GB.

Key Features:

4K HDR with a 10x Fusion chip and 64-bit architecture

Available in either 32GB or 64GB

2160p, Dolby Vision and HDR10

Siri remote voice control operation

Access music, photos, videos as well as TV content

Specification:
  • BrandApple
  • Weight15 ounces (425 g)
Pros

Crisp, clear visuals

Stunning design

Voice control

Surround sound

Multi-functional

100’s of video services

Compatible with Bluetooth keyboards

Cons

Remote is overly sensitive

No screen mirror function

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

4
Roku Ultra Streaming 4K HDR Media Player

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We’re back again looking at what else Roku has to offer with their extensive range of streaming TV devices. America’s #1 TV streaming platform based on hours streamed in 2029; they know a thing or two about streaming devices. With the Roku Ultra, you can stream free, live as well as premium TV over the internet to your 4K TV. Featuring a quad-core processor, dual-band wireless as well as an Ethernet port for wired streaming, it’s ideal for heavy streaming in HD, 4K, and HDR. It delivers a brilliant, crisp, and clear picture with stunning depth and clarity.

The Roku Ultra is fully loaded with all the bells and whistles you could wish for, delivering endless entertainment options. You can use your voice to create personal shortcuts and also enjoy private listening with the Premium JBL headphones provided with your purchase. There’s also an easy to use remote control that features favorite channel shortcuts to access Netflix, ESPC, Hulu, and Sling instantly. Set up is a cinch; you simply connect to the internet to begin streaming over 500,000 movies and TV episodes. Simple! It’s easy to see why this is such a popular choice. You may also be interested in some of these quality blu-ray players from our list. Check them out.

Key Features:

Delivers picture quality up to 1080p

Digital surround with Dolby Audio and Dolby Atmos

Can be voice remote operated

Works with Alexa and Google Assistant

Comes with JBL headphones for private listening

Specification:
  • BrandRoku
  • Model4670R
  • Weight8 ounces
Pros

Easy to set up

Private listening option

Smooth service

High-speed streaming

Surround sound

Huge collection of free entertainment

Free Roku mobile app

Cons

Lack of tech support

Poor integration with Netflix

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

5
Roku Streaming Stick with Long Range Wireless

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We’re sticking with Roku again for our next best-streaming TV device. This time we’re taking a look at the 4K streaming stick that comes with voice contour and is super simple and straightforward to set up. The stick design makes it highly portable, yet it’s also powerful too. With this version, Roku has added long-range wireless access alongside all the other great features you’ve come to expect from the brand. It’s a seriously popular device that brings all your favorite services together in one place. You can literally stream thousands of hit movies, and TV shows any time, any place, making it the ideal solution for any frequent travelers.

It may well be small and portable, but this Roku Streaming Stick provides excellent 4K HDR video with smooth performance, alongside crisp visuals and clear audio. That’s thanks to the Dolby surround sound system. There’s no need to worry about juggling remotes either. With this device, you can power up your TV and perform a whole host of functions simply by using your voice or with the one remote control. Set up once again couldn’t be simpler. Plug in, connect to the internet, and that’s it. You are ready to start streaming all your favorite entertainment.

Key Features:

Connects to TV via HDMI

Delivers picture quality up to 1080p

Dolby Audio and Dolby Atmos

Tons of streaming services available

Easy to use remote with intuitive navigation

Specification:
  • BrandRoku
  • ModelRoku Streaming Stick+ 3810R
  • Weight8.8 ounces
Pros

Portable

Easy to set up

Inexpensive

Free mobile app

High-speed streaming

Smooth service

Cons

Lack of tech support

Difficulty pairing remote

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

6
Roku Premiere 4K Streaming Media Player with Premium HDMI Cable

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If you want to do streaming the simple way, then how about taking a look at the Roku Premiere model, which comes equipped with a premium HDMI cable. As with the other Roku devices we’ve already discovered, the Premiere does not disappoint when it comes to picture quality. It delivers an incredibly crisp and clear image with sharp prolusion and plenty of vivid colors for a totally immersive home cinema experience.

Featuring a simple remote as well as easy setup, this is a fuss-free solution to home streaming, providing access to literally endless entertainment options. Benefit from access to free Roku software updates plus use with the free Roku mobile app for private listening on your mobile. It has to be one of the easiest solutions around for automatically streaming all the entertainment you love from your TV. Using a high-speed HDMI cable, all you need is an internet connection and wireless router. Delivering high-quality digital surround sound, your family is in for a real treat thanks to the Roku Premiere system.

Key Features:

Connects to TV via HDMI

Delivers picture quality up to 1080p

Dolby Audio and Dolby Atmos

Tons of streaming services available

Easy to use remote with intuitive navigation

Specification:
  • BrandRoku
  • ModelRoku Premiere 3920R
  • Weight1.28 ounces
Pros

Portable

Easy to set up

Inexpensive

Free mobile app

High-speed streaming

Smooth service

Cons

Lack of tech support

Poor range on remote control

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

7
Roku Portable Streaming Stick

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There’s a Roku player out there just for you, and maybe this is the one? If you’re looking for the portability of a stick and prefer to have something highly compact and discreet, then you should appreciate the design god this power-packed steaming device from the brand’s impressive collection. Providing instant and convenient access to over 500,000 plus movies and TV episodes, take your stick on the road with you so that you need never miss your favorite entertainment ever again. Roku Portable Streaming Stick is such a simple and straightforward little device but one which can provide hours of fun. 

Operate basic controls using your voice or with the easy to use remote provided. Navigation is intuitive, making it easier than ever before to search and find your favorite shows. You’ll also have access to the free Roku app, delivering private listening, voice search, and so much more besides. It’s fully compatible with HD TV’s up to 1080p and is also able to upscale from 720p. The only thing you need to be aware of is that your TV must feature an HDMI cable input that supports HDCP 2.2 for this particular device to be compatible.

Key Features:

Connects to TV via HDMI

Delivers picture quality up to 1080p

Dolby Audio and Dolby Atmos

Tons of streaming services available

Easy to use remote with intuitive navigation

Specification:
  • BrandRoku
  • ModelRoku Streaming Stick 3800R
  • Weight0.8 ounces
Pros

Portable

Easy to set up

Inexpensive

Free mobile app

High-speed streaming

Smooth service

Cons

Lack of tech support

Poor range on remote control

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

8
Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device

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The Amazon Fire TV Stick is the most powerful 4K streaming device in the world. It comes with a well-designed remote control with Alexa built-in, so you can change the channel with nothing but your voice. Watch your favorite shows from Netflix, Youtube, Prime, Disney+, and much more. You can basically access any streaming app available. There are over half a million movies and episodes to choose from. Plus, it has the latest HD technology with 4K Ultra HD, HDR, and HDR10+. If you’re an Amazon-fan, this is the best streaming device for you. 

Key Features:

4K, HDR, & HDR10+

Dolby Vision

Over 500,000 movies and episodes 

Alexa-enabled

Updated remote control

Specification:
  • BrandAmazon
  • ModelFire TV Stick
  • Weight1.9 ounces
Pros

Access to everything

Remote is easy to use 

Powerful 4K visuals 

Easy to set up 

Cons

The user interface could be updated 

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

9
NVIDIA Shield TV

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If you recall, we picked out the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro is our Best Choice, but there’s still a lot to be said for the NVIDIA Shield TV, which has to be on the most powerful Android TV box available today. If you’re looking to experience that full cinematic experience from home with Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos surround sound, then you really can’t go wrong with this all-new design from NVIDIA. It’s sleek, compact, and stealth looking, designed to slip right in and disappoint behind your entertainment center. It’s a powerful and feature-packed device that performs every bit as beautiful as it looks.

With Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band AC WiFi, built-in power supply, and a microSD card slot for additional storage, there’s plenty to rave about. It also comes with an all-new remote control featuring backlit buttons as well as offering user customization. You can also control via your voice as Google Assistant is built-in to follow your commands. With the addition of Chromecast 4K, you can also view and access all your favorite phone apps, videos, and photos. To experience a truly transformative television viewing experience, you need to get your hands on the NVIDIA Shield TV.

Key Features:

AI Enhanced Upscaling

4k HDR with NVIDIA Tegra 1 x chip

MicroSD card slot for storage expansion

Voice control and built-in Google Assistant

Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus

Built-in Chromecast 4K

Specification:
  • BrandNVIDIA
  • Model945-13430-2500-000
  • Weight13.6 ounces
Pros

Crisp, clear visuals

Surround sound

Beautiful design

Advanced remote control

Voice control

Unlimited entertainment

Stream from your phone

Cons

Overpriced

Issues with Dolby vision

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

10
Roku Express+ HD Streaming Media Player

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One final product recommendation from the Roku range, and this is the most inexpensive so far. If you have an older style TV that you’d like to turn into a Smart TV, then the Roku Express might just do the ideal job for you. It works for TVs with either HDMI’s or composite cable. Set up is a cinch and really couldn’t be simpler, and once you’re installed and ready to stream, you can look forward to accessing up to 350,000+ movies and TV episodes across 3500 paid and free to air channels. Sure, it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some of the other models, but if you are looking for a simple and portable device, then this is ideal.

Key Features:

Connects to TV via HDMI

Turn your old TV into a Smart TV

Includes popular channels such as Netflix, VUDU, Hulu and PBS Kids

Includes HDMI and Composite cable

Specification:
  • BrandRoku
  • Model3710RW
  • Weight6.4 ounces
Pros

Portable

Easy to set up

Inexpensive

Smooth service

Remote control

Cons

Lack of tech support

Limited functionality

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

11
Tivo Bolt OTA for Antenna

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Our next best streaming TV device is from TiVo and is their Bolt OTA model for Antenna. It’s the ideal solution for anyone wanting to enjoy a premium entertainment service at home and features a simple, fun, easy to operate, and intuitive interface. With this all-in-one design, you can watch, record, and stream all your favorite shows and apps without having to juggle separate remotes.

Just connect to an HD antenna (sold separately) to begin streaming and recording to your heart’s content. There are no cables required or complicated set up to worry about. It comes with TiVo favorite features, including SkipMode, to bypass those ads and QuickMode, which lets you find your favorite shows faster, then zoom in and slow down the action. With just one search, you can scroll simultaneously through all your favorite services, including Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and YouTube, to quickly find the show or movie you are looking for. With a recording capacity of up to 150 hours, this is one smart device that’s even voice search enabled. For more great products like this, check out our selection of the best wireless HDMI transmitters.

Key Features:

Live, recording and streaming TV device all in one

Access 4K and Ultra HD videos via services like Netflix and Prime Video

Use SkipMode to bypass ads

Slow stuff down with QuickMode

Connect to Amazon Echo for hands-free operation

Specification:
  • BrandTiVo
  • ModelTCD849000VO
  • Weight4.32 pounds
Pros

All-in-one TV streaming device

Slimline design

Remote control

Voice control

Free TiVo app

Watch and stream to your mobile device

Cons

Expensive hardware

Additional TiVo subscription is required

HD antenna required and sold separately

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

12
Pendoo Android 9.0 TV Box

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Equipped with the latest Android 9.0 OS, this streaming box from Pendoo is faster, safer, and more energy-efficient than ever before. Featuring both Dual Antenna and Dual WiFi, it should work up to 4 times faster than any non-Antenna TV box. It features H.265 decoding for smooth play with less bandwidth requirements. It also delivers a realistic and true audio and video experience and is capable of delivering a 4K picture @60fps for a full-on cinematic feast for the senses. Movies and games should quickly load without buffering thanks to the power provided by that Allwinner H6 Quad core correct A-53 procession and ultra-high frequency CPU.

Pendoo Android 9.0 TV Box isn’t just powerful, it’s also relatively compact plus it’s easy to install and set up. Simply plug the device into a power source, connect the android box via the HDMI cable to your WiFi or ethernet and sit back and watch the big-screen entertainment. The pricier quality is true to life, and there’s plenty of memory and storage space for all your favorite shows.

Key Features:

Latest OS Android 9.0 technology

Equipped with 4GB ram and 32GB tom plus USB 3.0

Supports 4K @ 75ffs, as well as UHD, HDR 10+ and 3D

Provides access to over 500,000 movies and TV episodes

Supports 2.4G/5G WiFi and Bluetooth 4.2

Specification:
  • Brandpendoo
  • ModelPendoo X6 PRO
  • Weight1 pounds
Pros

Superior visuals

Performance boosting

Latest technology

Dual-band WiFi

Wirelessly mirror content from your mobile

Plenty of versatile ports

Cons

Remote can’t navigate some apps

Issues with Netflix copyright

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Streaming TV Devices Buying Guide

Features To Look For In Streaming TV Devices

Below we’re recommending some of the key features to consider before you go ahead and invest in one of the latest high tech streaming TV devices.

WiFi or Wired - On the whole most devices these days offer WiFi and also Bluetooth as well an option to use via Ethernet, but that’s not a given, so please check. If you don’t have a strong home WiFi signal and you want to avoid annoying buffering that will slow down and spoil your viewing experience, then make sure you select a device that has a wired internet connection from your router for the best stability and speed.

Apps - The vast majority of streaming devices we reviewed require you to download at least certain apps to be able to access some of the services, pretty much as you already do with your smartphone. However, if there isn’t an app for that TV service or it’s temporarily unavailable or unable to be upgraded, you might consider instead “casting” from your mobile to the streaming player so that you can still watch all your favorite shows. To do that, you’ll need to be connected to the same WiFi network as your TV streaming device, and use Google Chromecast.

streaming tv devices

4K (Ultra HD) -  If you already have one of the latest 4K or Ultra HD TV’s, then you’ll also want to enjoy your streaming services at the same high quality. Currently, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video as well as Netflix all over a wide range of movies and shoes in full 4K. 4K video in itself also comes in a variety of formats, with Dolby Vision and HDR10 being among the most popular. Check that your streaming device supports all of these. Another popular choice to create that home cinematic experience is Dolby Atmos, which is a rich and clear, immersive surround-sound audio system. Again, if you want to enjoy the very best viewing experience, this is something to look out for.

Gaming - If you are a fan of gaming on your big screen at home, then you’ll want to pick out a streaming device that supports that activity. The great news is that many do support gaming through downloadable apps. Note that some of the remote controls can be a little fiddly, though, so you might still want to use in conjunction with your traditional games controller, connected via Bluetooth, so as not to miss out on that fully immersive gaming experience.

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