Streaming devices are the foundations of getting the most from your 4K TV. The market has many options, which makes picking the right one a challenge.

I tested all the top streaming devices and found that there was something special about each one. Many people call the Chromecast with Google TV the best streaming device available. The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max has earned top ratings from experts. Budget-friendly viewers will appreciate the Roku Streaming Stick 4K that performs well at just $40. This device packs versatility and value in one package.

These streaming media players stand out in different ways. The Apple TV 4K ranks among the fastest devices and runs without annoying ads. The Google TV Streamer doubles as a smart home hub and supports premium features like Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Yes, it is your specific needs and ecosystem priorities that determine the best 4K streaming device for you.

This piece will help you compare the 10 best TV streaming devices of 2025. We’ll look at everything from picture quality to smart features and help you pick the perfect match for your entertainment setup.

1. Apple TV 4K (2022)

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The Apple TV 4K (2022) leads our streaming devices list, and with good reason too. The impressive A15 Bionic chip from the iPhone 13 powers this third-generation streaming box. Its performance leaves most competitors nowhere near its capabilities.

Apple TV 4K key features

This latest Apple TV 4K features a sleeker, fanless design that takes up 20% less space than the previous model. The streaming media player delivers stunning picture quality with 4K resolution, Dolby Vision, and the newly added HDR10+ format.

Movie buffs will love the Dolby Atmos support that creates a theater-like experience right in their living room. The device comes in two different configurations:

Feature	Wi-Fi Model	Wi-Fi + Ethernet Model
Price	$149	$169
Storage	64GB	128GB
Ethernet Port	No	Yes
Thread networking	No	Yes
Dimensions	3.66″ × 3.66″ × 1.2″	3.66″ × 3.66″ × 1.2″

Each model includes the Siri Remote which now uses USB-C charging instead of the Lightning connector.

Apple TV 4K pros and cons

Pros:

• Exceptionally fast performance with A15 Bionic chip

• Premium video quality with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support

• Clean, ad-free interfac

• Seamless integration with other Apple devices

• Can function as a smart home hub

  
  

Cons:

• Price runs by a lot higher than competing streaming devices

• No included HDMI or USB-C cables

• Remote lacks Find My functionality for location tracking

• Many features work best with other Apple devices

  
  

Apple TV 4K pricing

The third-generation Apple TV 4K’s Wi-Fi only model with 64GB storage costs $149, which saves you $50 compared to the previous generation. Users who want more connectivity options can get the Wi-Fi + Ethernet model with 128GB storage for $169.

Apple TV 4K best for

This premium 4K streaming device works best for Apple fans who love how their devices work together. The sort of thing I love about it is its picture quality and performance. On top of that, it serves as a HomeKit hub to control your smart home devices.

The Apple TV 4K really shows its value when you use Apple services like Apple TV+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade, or Apple Fitness+. While it costs more than other streaming boxes, its power, clean interface, and ecosystem benefits make it worth every penny for the right user.

2. Roku Streaming Stick 4K

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The Roku Streaming Stick 4K delivers great value as a streaming device with its sleek design and powerful performance. Released in October 2021, this small streaming stick builds on Roku’s legacy of easy-to-use interfaces and detailed app support.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K key features

This tiny streaming device measures just 94.5 x 21.2 x 11.5 mm and fits discreetly behind your TV. It plugs directly into an HDMI port and comes with a power cable that has a built-in Wi-Fi antenna for better reception. The new model sports a matte finish that looks better than the glossy plastic used before.

A new quad-core processor makes apps load 30% faster. The video quality stands out with 4K resolution, HDR10, HDR10+, and now Dolby Vision—a major upgrade from older models.

The voice remote makes navigation simple with quick-access buttons for Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+, and Amazon Prime Video. Voice commands work well through the remote’s microphone when you speak directly into it. You can even use voice to enter usernames and passwords instead of typing them on screen.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K pros and cons

Pros:

• Great 4K HDR quality with Dolby Vision support

• Simple, clean interface with few ads

• Quick and responsive performance

• Huge app selection for all streaming service

• Works with AirPlay and screen mirroring

• Listen privately through phone headphones

• Sets up quickly and easily

  
  

Cons:

• Doesn’t support Dolby Atmos

• No Wi-Fi 6

• Remote needs backlight

• Smart home features lag behind competitors

• Live TV may be limited in some areas

  
  

Roku Streaming Stick 4K pricing

You can get the Roku Streaming Stick 4K for $39.71/£38.95, matching the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K’s price. Sales happen often—prices can drop to $23.82 or about $34.15 (14% off) on Amazon. This makes it one of the best deals among 4K streaming devices.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K best for

This stick works great for people who want simple streaming without endless recommendations or ads. The interface shows apps in a basic grid layout that works well for users who prefer simplicity over complex features.

Picture quality enthusiasts on a budget will love this device. It supports both HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, performs reliably, and packs premium features at an affordable price. The Roku Streaming Stick 4K lets you add modern streaming to an older TV without buying a new one.

3. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

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Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K Max brings the most important changes to streaming devices with innovative technology and improved processing power. Released in October 2023, this small but mighty streaming stick delivers premium performance at a reasonable price.

Fire TV Stick 4K Max key features

The Fire TV Stick 4K Max shines with its quad-core 2.0GHz processor. You’ll notice it runs faster than the standard Fire TV Stick 4K’s 1.7GHz CPU. Apps load quicker and navigation feels smoother throughout the interface.

The device brings a game-changing improvement with Wi-Fi 6E support. Users can now make use of the newly opened 6GHz spectrum. This means faster and more reliable connections when networks get crowded. Anyone with a compatible router will see less buffering during 4K streaming.

The stick supports all major video formats including:

• 4K Ultra HD resolution

• Dolby Vision

• HDR10/HDR10+

• HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)

• Immersive Dolby Atmos audio

  
  

Storage space doubles to 16GB, giving you plenty of room for apps, games, and downloads. The device connects through HDMI 2.1 with ARC input support. The Alexa Voice Remote Enhanced comes with dedicated power, volume, and channel buttons.

The new Ambient Experience turns your TV into a smart display during downtime. You can see widgets for weather, calendar, smart home controls, and even track Amazon deliveries.

Fire TV Stick 4K Max pros and cons

Pros:

• Exceptional performance with 2.0GHz quad-core processor

• Future-proof Wi-Fi 6E connectivity

• Detailed HDR format support

• Double the storage (16GB) of standard model

• Useful Ambient Experience feature

• Smooth integration with Amazon ecosystem

• Luna cloud gaming support

  
  

Cons:

• Still uses micro-USB for power (not USB-C)

• Remote lacks backlight and find-my functionality

• Interface pushes Amazon content heavily

• Needs compatible router for Wi-Fi 6E benefits

• No hands-free Alexa (requires remote button press)

  
  

Fire TV Stick 4K Max pricing

The Fire TV Stick 4K Max costs £44.99 normally. You’ll often find it discounted to around £32.95. Sales events can push prices even lower, with previous deals hitting £32.95. The value becomes clear when you compare it to the standard 4K model, which costs about £10 less.

Fire TV Stick 4K Max best for

This streaming powerhouse works great for homes already using Amazon’s ecosystem, especially with Alexa-powered smart devices. Prime Video users will love the optimized interface and tight integration.

The Wi-Fi 6E features make it perfect for busy networks or anyone planning ahead for better connectivity. Casual gamers will enjoy the improved performance with Amazon’s Luna cloud gaming service.

4. Google TV Streamer (4K)

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Google’s latest streaming box is a major shift from the Chromecast design. The Google TV Streamer (4K) comes as a standalone device instead of a dongle. This new streaming media player shows Google’s dedication to making 4K streaming devices that work as smart home hubs too.

Google TV Streamer key features

The Google TV Streamer packs some solid hardware upgrades with a processor that runs 22% faster than older Chromecast models. The device now has double the RAM and 32GB of storage – four times more space for apps and content. Users will get stunning picture quality with support for 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG formats.

The device does more than just stream content. It works as a Matter hub and Thread border router to control your smart home. A built-in Ethernet port helps you stream smoothly even when Wi-Fi isn’t great. The box comes with a redesigned voice remote that has a programmable button – you can set it to open your favorite apps, change inputs, or control smart home devices.

Google TV Streamer pros and cons

Pros:

• Modern design that fits nicely with home decor

• User-friendly interface that brings together content from different services

• Smart home controls through a new home panel

• Remote finder feature that makes it ring when lost

• Access to 800+ free channels along with subscription content

  
  

Cons:

• Costs more than Chromecast with Google TV

• Sticks to Wi-Fi 5, no Wi-Fi 6 support

• You need to buy an HDMI cable separately

• Won’t fit behind TV like streaming sticks

• Content loads slowly sometimes

  
  

Google TV Streamer pricing

You can get the Google TV Streamer (4K) for £79.41, which puts it in the middle range for 4K streaming devices. The box comes in two colors: Porcelain (white) and Hazel (gray).

Google TV Streamer best for

This streaming box works great for people who already use Google products, especially those with Google Home for smart device control. Smart home enthusiasts will love its Matter and Thread support, which lets them control everything through their TV. The device shines in homes that want a clean, organized way to access content from multiple streaming services in one customized interface.

5. Nvidia Shield TV

_{Image Source: NVIDIA}

The Nvidia Shield TV stands out as the powerhouse of the Android TV ecosystem in the premium streaming device market. This streaming box has managed to keep its reputation as one of the most capable 4K streaming devices since its launch. Power users and gamers love its performance-focused design.

Nvidia Shield TV key features

The Nvidia Tegra X1+ processor with a 256-core GPU powers the Nvidia Shield TV. It delivers processing power that’s approximately 25% faster than previous models. This resilient infrastructure supports impressive video capabilities, such as 4K HDR playback at 60 FPS with Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10.

The AI-enhanced upscaling technology is a standout feature. It changes HD content to near-4K quality through up-to-the-minute processing. Viewers with large media libraries will notice sharper images even with older content.

The device comes in two versions:

• Standard Shield TV (tube-shaped): 8GB storage, 2GB RAM

• Shield TV Pro (traditional box): 16GB storage, 3GB RAM

  
  

Both models offer extensive connectivity options. The Pro version has additional USB 3.0 ports to expand storage and connect peripherals. The Shield TV supports all major audio formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS-X surround sound passthrough.

Nvidia Shield TV pros and cons

Pros:

• Superior processing power for smooth navigation

• Exceptional 4K HDR quality with AI upscaling

• Resilient gaming capabilities via GeForce NOW

• Works as a Plex media server (Pro model)

• Regular software updates from Nvidia

• Unique triangular remote with backlit buttons

  
  

Cons:

• Higher price point than most competitors

• No Wi-Fi 6 support (limited to Wi-Fi 5)

• No AV1 codec support

• Requires separate GeForce NOW subscription for gaming

• No included HDMI cable

  
  

Nvidia Shield TV pricing

Nvidia Shield TV’s lineup offers premium pricing with two distinct options:

Model	Price	Storage	RAM	Additional Features
Shield TV	£119.12	8GB	2GB	Tube design, microSD slot
Shield TV Pro	£158.82	16GB	3GB	USB ports, Plex server capability

Many users find it worth the investment despite being one of the most expensive streaming devices. The device’s long-term software support and performance capabilities justify the cost.

Nvidia Shield TV best for

Tech enthusiasts and power users who want maximum performance from their streaming box will love the Nvidia Shield TV. Gamers can play PC titles on their television without a dedicated gaming rig through the GeForce NOW cloud gaming service.

The Pro model’s Plex server functionality is a great way to get more value. Media collectors can manage and stream their personal libraries to other devices throughout their home. The Shield TV remains the premier choice for viewers who want top-tier streaming performance and extended functionality beyond simple content consumption.

6. Roku Ultra

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The Roku Ultra leads the pack as Roku’s best streaming box. This square-puck shaped 4K device takes Roku’s content-first approach and adds premium features that raise your home entertainment game.

Roku Ultra key features

The 2024 Roku Ultra comes with major upgrades hidden inside its familiar plastic shell. A new quad-core processor makes it 30% faster than other Roku devices. Serious streamers will love that it has both Wi-Fi 6 and a 10/100 Ethernet port, which keeps your connection stable even with tricky network setups.

Picture quality shines with 4K resolution and support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG formats. Sound quality matches the visuals with Dolby Atmos spatial audio where available. On top of that, it plays media from USB storage and works with popular formats like MKV, MOV, MP4, AAC, FLAC, and MP3.

The new Voice Remote Pro now lights up its buttons when touched or when you say “Hey Roku”. USB-C charging and custom shortcut buttons add to its appeal. But the remote no longer has the popular headphone jack.

Roku Ultra pros and cons

Pros:

• Quick and snappy performance from new processor

• Wi-Fi 6 and Ethernet options to connect

• Complete HDR support (Dolby Vision, HDR10+)

• Remote with backlight and hands-free voice control

• Apple AirPlay works with iOS/Mac devices

• USB port plays local media

  
  

Cons:

• Costs more than streaming sticks

• Voice features don’t match competitors

• Remote lost its headphone jack

• Ethernet port isn’t gigabit speed

• Smart home features lag behind rivals

• No Twitch app

  
  

Roku Ultra pricing

The Roku Ultra sells for £79.41, putting it in the sweet spot for premium streamers. Here’s how prices stack up:

Device	Regular Price	Common Sale Price
Roku Ultra	£79.41	£63.52
Apple TV 4K	£102.45	–
Fire TV Cube	£103.23	–
Google TV Streamer	£79.41	–

The Ultra gives you great value among premium streaming boxes, especially when you find it at its usual sale price of £63.52.

Roku Ultra best for

This device shines for viewers who want quick access to content more than smart home features. It’s perfect if you have a Wi-Fi 6 router and need faster wireless speeds or want a wired connection for reliability. Apple users get an extra bonus with AirPlay support, something many other devices don’t offer.

The Ultra hits the sweet spot for anyone wanting top-notch picture quality with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ without spending over £100 on Apple or Amazon alternatives.

7. Amazon Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen)

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The Amazon Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen) takes streaming devices to the next level by working as both a streaming box and smart speaker. This cube-shaped media player came out in 2022. It measures 86 x 86 x 77mm and looks more premium than earlier models thanks to its fabric mesh wrap.

Fire TV Cube key features

The device packs an octa-core processor that makes it twice as powerful as the Fire TV Stick 4K Max. Apps load quickly and menu navigation feels smooth. Users get a very fluid streaming experience.

The Fire TV Cube shines with its hands-free Alexa feature. Built-in microphones and speakers let you control your entertainment system even with the TV turned off. The device leads the market as the first streaming player with Wi-Fi 6E support. This means faster streaming and less interference from other devices in your home.

Video capabilities include:

• 4K Ultra HD resolution with HDR10, HDR10+, HLG

• Dolby Vision support

• Super Resolution Upscaling for converting HD content to 4K

  
  

The device comes with dual HDMI 2.1 ports (input and output), a USB-A port for external devices, and a 10/100 Ethernet connection.

Fire TV Cube pros and cons

Pros:

• Super-fast octa-core processor

• Alexa controls work from anywhere in the room

• HDMI input connects cable boxes or game consoles

• Built-in speaker controls smart home when TV is off

• Wi-Fi 6E makes streaming more stable

  
  

Cons:

• Costs more than most streaming sticks

• Alexa sometimes struggles with complex commands

• 10/100 Ethernet port (not gigabit)

• Storage space limited to 16GB

• Amazon content gets pushed heavily

  
  

Fire TV Cube pricing

The device usually sells for £111.18/$139.99, which puts it above the Apple TV 4K and Roku Ultra in price. Sales happen often though, with prices dropping to around £75.44 (32% off) during deals.

Fire TV Cube best for

This premium streaming box works great for people who want a complete entertainment hub they can control hands-free. Tech fans will love using voice commands to search for content by actor, plot, or even specific quotes. The HDMI input makes it perfect for anyone looking to simplify their setup since you can plug in cable boxes and game consoles without switching TV inputs.

8. Chromecast with Google TV

_{Image Source: CNET}

Google’s Chromecast with Google TV represents a major transformation in their streaming device lineup. The device has evolved from a simple casting tool to a full-featured streaming media player with its own interface and remote. This small, puck-shaped streaming stick provides an affordable way to enter the 4K digital world.

Chromecast with Google TV key features

The Chromecast with Google TV comes in two versions that give users flexible streaming choices. The 4K model supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG formats and delivers stunning picture quality at 60fps. Both models support Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Atmos through HDMI passthrough.

The hardware has:

Feature	4K Model	HD Model
Resolution	Up to 4K HDR	Up to 1080p HDR
Memory	2GB RAM	1.5GB RAM
Storage	8GB	8GB
Processor	Quad-core A53 1.8GHz	Quad-core A53
Colors	Snow	Snow, Sky, Sunrise

The device’s voice remote comes with dedicated YouTube and Netflix buttons. Google Assistant integration goes beyond content search and lets users control their smart home devices.

Chromecast with Google TV pros and cons

Pros:

• Tailored recommendations across streaming services

• Google Assistant’s voice control features

• Cast content from phones and computers

• Dolby Vision and Atmos support

• Accessible interface

  
  

Cons:

• Storage limited to 8GB

• Ethernet port requires optional adapter

• Performance can be inconsistent

• UK users can’t access Channel 4

• Gaming features are limited

  
  

Chromecast with Google TV pricing

The 4K version costs £39.70, making it one of the cheapest 4K streaming options available. The HD model sells for £23.82, offering great value for 1080p TV owners.

Chromecast with Google TV best for

Google ecosystem users will find this streaming device particularly appealing. The content-first approach works better than traditional app-based navigation. People who regularly stream from their phones or laptops to their TVs will love this device. Budget-conscious viewers can enjoy premium features without spending too much.

9. Onn 4K Google TV Box

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Walmart has launched its new Onn 4K Google TV Box, which delivers impressive features at a breakthrough price. The compact TV box provides great value that rivals devices twice its price, especially for viewers who want affordable 4K streaming.

Onn 4K Box key features

The Onn 4K Google TV Box comes equipped with a quad-core processor, 2GB RAM and 8GB of storage. This hardware setup ensures smooth navigation through the Google TV interface based on Android 12. The device supports 4K resolution with HDR10 and HDR10+ formats, though it lacks Dolby Vision support.

The device features Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and USB 2.0 through a micro-USB port, while Ethernet connectivity needs an external adapter. Recent models work with USB-C docks to connect external devices.

The voice remote comes with dedicated buttons for YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, and Paramount+. Users also get standard navigation controls and an “Input Switch” button for their TVs.

Onn 4K Box pros and cons

Pros:

• Budget-friendly at £15.88

• Google TV interface with minimal ads

• Reliable 4K HDR streaming

• Access to over 10,000 apps

• Support for USB-C hubs

  
  

Cons:

• Lacks Dolby Vision support

• Storage limited to 8GB

• Ethernet port not built-in

• Lower build quality than competitors

• Uses micro-USB instead of USB-C for power

  
  

Onn 4K Box pricing

The device costs £15.88, making it one of the most affordable 4K streaming options. The price beats Fire TV Stick 4K’s lowest sale price by £3.97 (£19.85) and Roku Express 4K Plus’s best discount by £3.18 (£19.06).

Onn 4K Box best for

This streaming box works well for users who want simple 4K streaming without premium features like Dolby Vision. The price-to-performance ratio makes it perfect for second TVs or bedrooms. Google TV’s content-forward interface appeals to users who don’t want to spend more on premium streaming devices.

10. Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus

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The Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus tops our list of streaming devices with its premium remote bundle that boosts functionality. This 4K streaming stick package combines the standard Streaming Stick 4K with Roku’s advanced Voice Remote Pro. Users get both quality and convenience in one compelling package.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus key features

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus shares the same core hardware as the standard model. It supports 4K resolution with HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision formats. The Voice Remote Pro makes this device special with these premium features:

• “Hey Roku” commands for hands-free voice control

• Built-in rechargeable battery via micro USB (no disposable batteries needed)

• Headphone jack to listen privately

• Remote finder feature works through the Roku smartphone app

• Two programmable shortcut buttons you can customize

  
  

The streaming stick measures just 3.4 by 0.6 by 0.4 inches, so it hides perfectly behind your TV. Its USB cable has a built-in Wi-Fi module that improves reception and keeps connections stable.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus pros and cons

Pros:

• You save £7.94 when buying the bundle instead of separate components

• Voice Remote Pro’s mid-field microphone lets you control hands-free

• Remote’s built-in speaker helps you find it when lost

• Uses less power than standard model (2.6W vs 3.5W)

• TV’s USB port powers it reliably without needing a wall adapter

  
  

Cons:

• Costs more than simple streaming sticks

• Voice search isn’t as good as Alexa or Google Assistant

• Smart home control limited to Roku ecosystem

• No Dolby Atmos support

• Twitch app isn’t available

  
  

Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus pricing

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus costs £55.59, which is £15.88 more than the regular Streaming Stick 4K at £39.71. You’ll save £7.94 with this bundle since the Voice Remote Pro costs £23.82 by itself.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus best for

This premium streaming stick works great for people who want both convenience and quality. The remote finder feature makes it perfect for homes where remotes vanish into couch cushions. Users who love voice commands will appreciate not having to hold the remote for every command. Late-night viewers can watch TV without waking up others thanks to private listening.

How to choose the best streaming device

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The right streaming device can transform your entertainment setup, and you’ll just need to think about a few important things before buying one. Your budget plays a big role here – high-end streaming devices can cost more than £79.42, while budget options start at £15.88.

Your existing tech ecosystem should guide your choice. Apple TV makes perfect sense if you already use iPhones and HomePods. Fire Stick works best for Amazon Prime subscribers, and Google TV or Chromecast fits naturally into Google users’ homes.

Your viewing habits will shape which device suits you best:

1. Streaming needs – You might want features beyond your TV’s capabilities or a device that lets you game

2. Picture quality requirements – Look for 4K resolution, HDR formats (HDR10, Dolby Vision), and advanced audio if you have the rightequipment

3. Connectivity options – HDMI and Wi-Fi come standard, but some setups work better with Ethernet

4. Interface preferences – The right interface helps you find content quickly

5. App availability – Make sure your favorite streaming services work on the device

   
   

Dedicated streaming devices are a great way to get better performance than smart TVs, game consoles, or Blu-ray players. They pack more apps, respond faster, and make finding content easier.

Good streaming needs solid internet speed. You should have at least 50 Mbps for smooth 4K streaming. We found that 15-25 Mbps works well for most 4K videos.

My tests show that the best streaming device matches your needs and budget. You can try our IPTV service for 24 hours at www.joiniptv.com/free-trial without any risk to add more content options to your streaming setup.

Does a Smart TV need a streaming device?

_{Image Source: The New York Times}

Smart TV buyers often ask themselves if they really need a separate streaming device. Even cheaper TVs now come with streaming capabilities. The market for external streaming devices stays strong, ranging from budget-friendly Roku Streaming Stick 4K to high-end options like Apple TV 4K.

External streaming devices beat built-in TV software in several key areas. Processing power makes a huge difference, especially since TV processors in mid-range and budget models often lack power. These streaming boxes work like small computers that focus solely on running TV platforms efficiently.

Each TV brand offers different software. Samsung uses Tizen, LG has WebOS, while others go with Google TV or Roku. Your choice might depend on what ecosystem you use – Apple users might lean toward Apple TV’s AirPlay features, while Android fans could prefer Google TV options.

Better upscaling technology gives you another reason to think over external devices. Premium streamers like Apple TV (starting at £102.45) usually do a better job at upscaling than budget TVs, which can make your shows look better.

Your final choice ended up depending on what you need:

You might want a streaming device if:

• Your TV feels slow or takes forever to respond

• You want to watch services your TV doesn’t support

• You need specific features from Google, Apple, or Amazon

• Your TV stopped getting updates for new apps

  
  

Your TV’s built-in software might be enough when:

• You mostly watch Netflix or Hulu

• Your TV runs smoothly

• You like keeping things simple

• You need to watch your budget

  
  

A streaming device can give your TV new life if you like its picture quality but hate its outdated software. But if you want both great picture quality and your preferred software, you might need to spend more on both a high-end TV and a streaming device.

Comparison Table

Streaming Devices Comparison Table 2025

Device	Price	Resolution/HDR	Storage	Key Features	Connectivity	Notable Pros	Notable Cons
Apple TV 4K (2022)	£149-169	4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+	64GB/128GB	A15 Bionic chip, HomeKit hub	Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet (on £169 model)	Top performance, Easy-to-use interface	Premium price, No included cables
Roku Streaming Stick 4K	£38.95	4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+	Not mentioned	Voice remote, Private listening	Wi-Fi 5	Great value, Easy-to-use interface	No Dolby Atmos, No Wi-Fi 6
Fire TV Stick 4K Max	£44.99	4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+	16GB	Ambient Experience, Luna gaming	Wi-Fi 6E	Continuous connection, Responsive processor	Amazon-heavy promotion, Micro-USB power
Google TV Streamer	£79.41	4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+	32GB	Matter hub, Thread router	Wi-Fi 5, Ethernet	Smart home integration, Remote locator	No Wi-Fi 6, Higher cost
Nvidia Shield TV	£119-159	4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10	8GB/16GB	AI upscaling, GeForce NOW	Wi-Fi 5, Ethernet	Exceptional processing, Gaming ready	Premium price, No Wi-Fi 6
Roku Ultra	£79.41	4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+	Not mentioned	Voice Remote Pro, USB port	Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet	Smooth performance, Backlit remote	Standard Ethernet, Limited smart features
Fire TV Cube	£111.18	4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+	16GB	Hands-free Alexa, HDMI input	Wi-Fi 6E, Ethernet	Best Fire TV performance, Built-in speaker	Premium price, Amazon-centric
Chromecast with Google TV	£39.70	4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+	8GB	Google Assistant, Casting	Wi-Fi 5	Budget-friendly, Smart suggestions	Small storage, No Ethernet
Onn 4K Box	£15.88	4K, HDR10+	8GB	Google TV OS, USB-C support	Wi-Fi 5	Lowest price, Simple interface	No Dolby Vision, Simple construction
Roku Stick 4K Plus	£55.59	4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+	Not mentioned	Voice Remote Pro, Remote finder	Wi-Fi 5	Enhanced remote, Private listening	Costlier than standard, No Atmos

Conclusion

Final Thoughts on 4K Streaming Devices

Streaming devices have changed the way we enjoy entertainment on our 4K TVs. These devices pack specialized features that work better than what most smart TVs come with. I’ve tested these top 10 streaming devices thoroughly, and each one shines differently depending on who’s using it.

The Apple TV 4K leads the pack with its powerful processing and clean, ad-free interface – though it costs more than others. People watching their wallet will love the Roku Streaming Stick 4K and the surprisingly good Onn 4K Google TV Box. Without doubt, Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K Max delivers great performance with future-ready Wi-Fi 6E at a mid-range price point.

Here’s what you should think over before picking your streaming device:

• Ecosystem compatibility – Apple’s ecosystem works best with Apple TV, while Amazon Prime users might prefer Fire TV devices

• Performance requirements – Serious users should look at Apple TV 4K or Nvidia Shield TV

• Budget constraints – Prices range from £15.88 to over £150

• HDR format support – Make sure it works with your TV’s format

• Specific features – Features like finding lost remotes, private listening, or smart home control

  
  

Your connection options matter too. While Wi-Fi works for most people, some setups need an Ethernet cable’s stability, especially for smooth 4K streaming.

The digital world keeps changing faster, but these devices represent today’s best home entertainment tech. Each one opens the door to huge content libraries while making your viewing better. Check out our IPTV service for 24 hours at www.joiniptv.com/free-trial risk-free to add more content to your streaming device.

The best streaming device matches your budget, tech needs, and system priorities. Whether you go for Apple TV 4K’s premium features, Roku Streaming Stick 4K’s great value, or any other device here, these streaming players work better than most TV’s built-in smart features.

FAQs

Q1. What is currently considered the best 4K streaming device? The Apple TV 4K (2022) is widely regarded as the top 4K streaming device due to its powerful A15 Bionic chip, premium video quality with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support, and seamless integration with other Apple devices. However, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences.

Q2. Do I need a separate streaming device if I have a smart TV? While smart TVs have built-in streaming capabilities, external streaming devices often offer better performance, more frequent updates, and a wider range of apps. They can be particularly beneficial if your TV’s interface is sluggish or lacks support for certain streaming services.

Q3. What should I consider when choosing a streaming device? Key factors to consider include your budget, preferred ecosystem (Apple, Google, Amazon), required video/audio formats (4K, HDR, Dolby Atmos), app availability, and additional features like voice control or smart home integration. Also, consider your internet speed and whether you need Ethernet connectivity.

Q4. How much should I expect to spend on a quality streaming device? Prices for streaming devices vary widely. Budget-friendly options like the Onn 4K Google TV Box start around £15.88, while premium devices like the Apple TV 4K can cost over £100. Mid-range options with excellent features, such as the Roku Streaming Stick 4K or Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max, typically fall in the £40-£50 range.

Q5. Can streaming devices improve my TV’s picture quality? Some streaming devices, particularly premium models, offer advanced upscaling technology that can enhance the picture quality of lower-resolution content on 4K TVs. However, the most significant improvements come from accessing higher-quality streams (4K HDR) that your TV might not support natively through its built-in apps.

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