Millions of consumers have abandoned their TV subscriptions in favour of streaming services. In the next three years, the number of Americans who just say “so long” is predicted to quadruple, from 25.3 million to 76 million.
Even keeping track of our different streaming services is a challenge for us. You’ve heard of Netflix, but have you heard of Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, Disney +, or HBO Max? To see how our favourite streaming services compare, go here.
A streaming device, such as Roku or Apple TV, will simply ease your transfer from television to the realm of online entertainment. To assist you in getting started, we’ve compared some of the most popular streaming devices so you can see how they compare and pick the ideal one for your living room.
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Apple TV 4K
Why do you need it: Apple TV 4K features some of the greatest technology in a streaming box right now, intended to handle 60 frames per second 4K, Dolby Atmos, and HDR video with ease.
It offers the cleanest and smoothest UI, resulting in an overall simple but professional experience.
It works with iPhone, iPad, and Mac because it is an Apple product. It also works with AirPlay multimedia streaming, Apple Music, and other HomeKit-compatible devices. Apple TV is a no-brainer if you currently utilise the Apple ecosystem.
You may use it to play any iTunes-purchased movies or music. Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Voodoo, Hulu, Plex, HBO, AT&T TV Now, and Sling TV are just a few of the streaming services available. If you have digital movies on several platforms, you can sync them from anywhere.
Apple TV owners also receive a year of Apple TV Plus for free.
Why You Should Avoid It: The Apple TV 4K, at slightly under $200, is a pretty costly piece of Apple hardware. Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, at the very least, can stream 4K video.
The Apple TV 4K’s Siri Touch remote can be confusing and inconvenient to use. Furthermore, you won’t get the most out of Apple TV if you don’t have an Apple ecosystem or any other Apple devices.
Why do you need it: Despite increased competition, Roku remains one of the most popular streaming companies. Why? It is compatible with practically all content providers.
Netflix, YouTube, Google Play Movies, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, Hulu, Plex, Sling TV, and Apple TV Plus are among the applications available.
Hundreds of third-party video applications with free movies and TV series are available. Roku is the streaming device to use if you want to access the most material from various services.
In terms of technical specifications, the Roku Ultra supports 4K, HDR, and Dolby Atmos. It comes with a set of JBL earbuds that you can use with the remote to listen to music wirelessly.
Why You Should Avoid It: If there’s one thing Roku devices are missing, it’s a user-friendly UI. The Roku Ultra, a high-end device, is no exception.
The interface might be sluggish at times, but it is always current. Roku is also tightening down on third-party apps. Because they automatically update the programs, the ones you install may be deactivated without notice.
Amazon Fire TV Cube
Why you want it: Amazon content is front and centre on the Fire TV, as you might expect. Netflix, Vudu, Hulu, Plex, and Sling TV should all be available. You can now watch YouTube on your Fire TV thanks to Amazon and YouTube.
The “smartest” gadget is the Fire TV. The Alexa feature on the Fire TV Cube is built-in. You can use it to dim your smart lamps, operate your smart gadgets, ask questions, and set timers, among other things.
You may also use your voice to locate, play, pause, fast-forward, and do what you would typically do with the remote control. An HDMI-CEC capable TV may be turned on or off, and the volume can be adjusted.
However, if you have an ancient television, don’t panic. The built-in IR transmitter on the Fire TV Cube allows you to use it as a universal remote and voice control for any TV, old or new.
It may potentially include features similar to Amazon’s Echo Show. The Fire TV Cube can deliver precise weather predictions, display song lyrics, and show you a live video feed from an Alexa-compatible security camera using the Alexa Voice command.
4K content, HDR, and Dolby Atmosphere are all supported on the Fire TV Cube.
Why You Should Avoid It: Amazon’s Fire TV interface, like its applications, is busy, full of promotional content, and navigation may be difficult.