What is the Best Streaming Device? We receive this question daily on the TROYPOINT website for good reason.
The following resource guide lists some of the Best Streaming Devices available today with important features and details about each.
Among the best streaming device options are the Amazon Firestick, MECOOL KM2, Fire TV Cube, NVIDIA SHIELD, and more listed below.
These media devices enable users to stream Movies, TV Shows, Live TV, and tons of other content directly to their television.
Many times, investing in one of these top streaming devices can lead to canceling your cable or satellite subscription.
In the current age of advanced streaming, there are various methods to “cut-the-cord,” with a streaming device being the most efficient.
With a streaming device, you can easily download applications from app stores and access abundant content, often for free.
Below, you’ll find TROYPOINT’s picks for the best streaming devices with some additional options.
When on the hunt for the best streaming device for you, multiple factors should be taken into consideration.
One crucial aspect to think about when choosing a device is the purpose you will primarily use it for.
If your usage will focus mainly on Streaming Apps for movies and TV Shows, a costly option might not be necessary.
However, if your plans involve gaming, additional storage, and more, a pricier device may be worth considering.
We provide you with a range of options that differ in price, power, speed, and more.
Each device includes a TROYPOINT Review that offers unbiased insights to help you determine the best fit for your needs.
If you don’t spot your preferred device here, feel free to share it in the comments along with your reasons! Many of these devices can also be found on our list of Best IPTV Boxes.
How to Choose the Best Streaming Device
With numerous options available, selecting a streaming device can be a challenging task.
Fortunately, we have meticulously evaluated the most popular options on the current market to guide you in making a decision.
When selecting a streaming device, consider various factors such as:
- Price
- Storage
- Speed
- Video Resolution (4K, 1080p, etc.)
- User Interface
- Sideloading Capabilities
- Provided Remote
- Voice Command Capabilities
If your device usage will primarily revolve around quick and straightforward video streaming, a basic device like the Fire TV Stick Lite or Roku Streaming Stick+ would be ideal.
However, if you desire a robust media device suitable for gaming, streaming, and more, we recommend the NVIDIA SHIELD.
Discover more about these devices and others below.
Best Streaming Devices
1. Fire TV Stick 4K
TROYPOINT Streaming Device Choice #1
Among cord-cutters and streamers, the most popular device is likely the Amazon Firestick, owing to its affordable price and fast streaming capabilities that have made it a staple in millions of households worldwide.
The Fire TV Stick 4K has gained immense popularity due to its side-loading capabilities, often termed as jailbreaking, which enhances its functionality.
Additionally, the Fire TV Stick 4K boasts other features that make it an excellent streaming option.
Notable Features
- Amazon Alexa Voice Remote
- 4K Streaming Capabilities
- Dolby Vision & Surround Sound
- 8 GB Storage Capacity
- IPVanish Compatibility
Currently, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is priced at $49.99.
Purchase Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
2. MECOOL KM2
TROYPOINT Honorable Mention Streaming Device Choice
The MECOOL KM2 stands out as a powerful, Netflix Certified Android TV Box running on the genuine Android TV 10 OS.
This device is currently the leading MECOOL box on the market and ranks among the finest streaming devices available!
Referred to as an Android TV Google Certified box, it integrates seamlessly with various Google features, including voice control and Google cast.
Most Android Boxes struggle to stream HD videos from verified apps, but the MECOOL KM2 excels with platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and more.
Featuring expandable internal storage, the MECOOL KM2 is an excellent choice for gamers, with our tests showing no lags or buffering.
Notable Features
- Netflix 4K certified
- Android TV 10
- Expandable internal storage
- Customizable home screen
- Side-loading abilities
- Good support of audio codecs
- Fast wireless speeds
- Seamless 4K video playback
- IPVanish Compatibility
Get MECOOL KM2
Remember to use coupon code TROYPOINT for a 10% discount at checkout.
3. Fire TV Cube (2nd Generation)
While the Firestick is the most popular device for Amazon, it is not the only choice available. The 2nd Generation Fire TV Cube is another option that offers the same capabilities with some added features.
The major advantage the Cube has over the Fire TV Stick is its hands-free capabilities with built-in Amazon Echo. If you are a fan of smart speakers and voice technology, this device is for you. The Fire TV Cube easily lets you turn on and off the tv, open apps, and even play content, all without touching a single button.
Users can still side-load applications and can store twice the amount of apps due to its 16 GB Capacity. Also, the cube has a built-in Ethernet adapter for all your external needs.
However, the price of the Fire TV Cube 2 is more than double that of its brother device – the Fire TV Stick 4K.
Notable Features
- Added Amazon Alexa Voice Remote
- 4k Streaming Capabilities
- Built-in speaker
- Far-Field Voice Support
- 16 GB Storage Capacity
- IPVanish Compatibility
Currently, the Amazon Fire TV Cube 2nd Gen is available for $119.99.
Read the 2nd Generation Fire TV Cube Review
Purchase the 2nd Gen Fire TV Cube
4. NVIDIA SHIELD
TROYPOINT’s Premium Streaming Device Choice
Amazon is not the only company investing in the streaming market. NVIDIA also offers a streaming device that is the most powerful device running the Android TV system.
The NVIDIA SHIELD TV and NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro are both high-powered streaming devices that provide the ability to side-load apps not available in the Google Play Store. 4K video capabilities are provided in both versions of the NVIDIA SHIELD with Dolby HDR & HDR10 Vision.
The main element of these devices that make them so powerful is the built-in NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor. The NVIDIA SHIELD is great for gamers, streamers, and everything in between. However, both devices tout a hefty price tag that is much steeper than the average streaming device.
Notable Features
- 8 GB or 16 GB Storage Capacity
- micro-SD card slot for Stick Version
- 4K streaming
- Dual USB Ports for Pro Version
- Ethernet Port
- Google Voice Control
- IPVanish Compatibility
Currently, the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Stick is available for $149.99, and the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro is available for $199.99.
Purchase the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Stick
Purchase the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro
Read the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Stick Review
Read the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro Review
5. Chromecast With Google TV
The all-new Chromecast with Google TV launched in the Fall of 2020 and is quickly becoming a go-to streaming device. With an added remote and Google Play Store, use of the Chromecast will no longer require a mobile device or tablet.
In addition, the Chromecast with Google TV runs Android TV OS which means we can side-load our favorite apps for Movies, TV Shows, and more. While the internal storage is minimal, users can also attach a USB C Hub for added storage capabilities. With an updated interface and a reasonable price tag, many are opting for the new Chromecast with Google TV as their streaming device choice.
Notable Features
- 4GB Internal Storage
- Included Remote
- 3 Color choice variations
- 4k Streaming
- USB C Hub Compatibility for added storage
- Works well with Google Assistant and Google Home products
- IPVanish Compatibility
Currently, the Chromecast With Google TV is available for $49.99.
Read the Chromecast with Google TV Review
Purchase Chromecast with Google TV
6. Tivo Stream 4K
Tivo’s first and only streaming device is now available for sale in the form of the Tivo Stream 4k. It matches the Fire TV Stick with 8 GB of internal storage and runs on the Android OS for smooth navigation.
Apps such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and more stream in 4k HD which cannot be said for stock Android devices. It also comes with the Tivo Stream App that serves up content recommendations and more alongside a well-designed interface.
For those looking for added storage, we can expand the Tivo Stream 4k with a USB drive and C adapter.
Notable Features
- Works well for gaming
- 4k streaming capabilities
- USB C port works with external devices
- Included remote with multiple functions
- IPVanish Compatibility
Currently, the Tivo Stream 4K is available for $49.99.
7. X96 Max Android TV Box
The X96 Max Android TV Box is another Android device that is highly popular among streamers and more. It is available in various configurations including 4GB and 2GB RAM options.
While the X96 Max is considered an Android TV Box, it does not run the Android TV Operating System like other devices such as the NVIDIA SHIELD. These devices that run the “Stock Android System” are considered Generic Android TV Boxes and usually perform great at a cheaper price point.
Learn the difference between Stock Android and Android TV Systems by reading the TROYPOINT Android TV Box Resource Guide.
The X96 is a fabulous streaming device that is perfect for those who don’t use paid service apps such as Netflix, Hulu, etc. If you plan on sideloading apps to your device, the X96 Max is a great choice.
One thing to note, however, is the oftentimes faulty remote that comes with Stock Android devices. If you do choose to purchase one of these devices, we recommend using a wireless keyboard remote such as the iPazzPort Wireless Mini Keyboard.
Notable Features
- Up to 64 GB Storage Capacity
- 4K Streaming Capabilities
- micro-SD Card slot
- Dual USB Ports
- Ethernet Port
- IPVanish Compatibility
Currently, the X96 Max Android TV Box is available for $55.99.
Purchase the X96 Max Android TV Box
8. Fire TV Stick Lite
The all-new Fire TV Stick Lite is Amazon’s latest in the Fire TV lineup. The “Firestick Lite” is their most affordable option with a price tag of only $29.99.
This device features the same 8 GB of storage as the Fire TV 4K and the new Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen), as well as included Alexa Voice Remote. However, the remote will not feature TV Power and volume controls like that of the Firestick 4K remote.
If you are looking for a basic streaming device with minimal features yet an affordable price, the Fire TV Stick Lite is a fabulous choice.
Notable Features
- 1080p HD Streaming
- 8 GB Storage
- Side-Loading capabilities
- Updated Fire TV Interface
- IPVanish Compatibility
Currently, the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite is available for $29.99.
Amazon announces new Fire TV Stick and Fire TV Stick Lite
Other Streaming Options
Roku
One of the most popular devices available today is the Roku media streaming device. Roku offers a few variations of the model that cost anywhere between $24.99- $99.99.
These devices have hundreds of different “Channel” options that users can install for free or a small price.
This includes apps such as Netflix, Apple TV, Tubi, and more.
However, Roku does not have “side-loading” abilities which means you cannot install apps such as Cinema APK and others.
Luckily, TROYPOINT has created a tutorial that will show you a secret method to “jailbreak” your Roku device using Plex:
Roku is great for those who want to install all the popular apps and enjoy a seamless streaming experience with an affordable price range.
Purchase Roku Streaming Device
Raspberry Pi
While a Raspberry Pi isn’t often considered a “streaming device”, many use this little piece of equipment for exactly that.
Users have the ability to install and run Kodi and other applications through the device and cast to a screen of their choice.
You can even play retro games on Raspberry Pi and enjoy some of the old classics.
Do you consider Raspberry Pi the Best Streaming Device?
PC or Mac
Using a PC or Mac is still the preferred method for tons of cord-cutters across the world. One of the main reasons for this is that the opportunities for content are endless and easily accessible.
Instead of installing or side-loading streaming applications, PC & Mac users can visit websites, download files, and more with ease.
The best way to do so is via Torrent Sites and the powerful Plex Media Server which we describe in detail below:
Plex Media Server Resource Guide
Using a computer or laptop also ensures a strong connection which means little to no buffering.
Tablet/Mobile Phone
While not technically considered “streaming devices”, mobile phones and tablets have tons of streaming capabilities.
In today’s digital world, we can access endless information and content right at our fingertips.
You can even use a mobile phone, tablet, or other to Cast to Firestick and other media devices.
However, most Apps and APK’s we use on streaming devices can also be found on mobile phones or tablets.
This includes the Amazon Fire Tablet that has the ability to install Google Play Store for more streaming options.
How to Install Google Play Store on Fire Tablet
VPN For Streaming
After finding a streaming device that is right for you, you will likely want to purchase a VPN as well.
Using a VPN in conjunction with streaming media will protect your privacy and ensure App Developers, Internet Service Providers, and more cannot log your internet activity.
The Best VPN for Streaming is IPVanish due to its blazing fast speeds and zero log policy.
See our complete VPN on Firestick guide below for more information and how to protect yourself.
Best VPN for Firestick/Android
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best Streaming Device?
If you are looking for an affordable, easy-to-use streaming device, the Amazon Firestick is a fabulous choice.
Is Firestick Better than Roku?
The Amazon Firestick has side-loading capabilities to install thousands of apps not available in the App Store. Roku does not have this ability.
Do I Need a Streaming Device if I have a Smart TV?
While some Smart TVs have apps for various content, a streaming device will provide a complete streaming experience.
Where do I Purchase a Streaming Device?
Many retailers carry streaming devices such as Firestick and Roku. However, you can also purchase online at Amazon and many other websites.
Can I Watch Live TV on a Streaming Device?
Yes, with the use of IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) and other apps.