Your smart TV probably has a number of built-in streaming services, but it may not have all the apps you need. Some older TV models don’t support new streaming apps like Apple TV. This is where the best streaming devices come into play. These plug-in sticks and set-top boxes are packed with apps, from the biggest heavyweights to smaller streaming services.
And if you don’t own a Roku TV, you may find that your TV’s built-in streaming apps are slow to load, sluggish to respond, and difficult to navigate. Streaming devices offer much faster and fine-tuned interfaces that make searching for shows and selecting movies less tedious. They may also offer better voice control support and additional smart features.
There are a few things to keep in mind when comparing streaming devices, but we’ll give you a helpful tip: Every streaming device on this list includes all the major apps: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Spotify, and whatever you’re probably thinking about right now to it. Much more important are differences between interface design, size, smart home integration and remote controls.
To help you find the best streaming device for your TV, we compared the top products from Roku, Apple, Google and Amazon for this practical test.
Do you need a streaming device with a smart TV?
Not at all. In fact, the opposite is true. If you own a smart TV, you may already have access to all the streaming apps you’re interested in, be it Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV, or whatever. However, a streaming device can add all the services you’re missing. And if you have one Really If you use an old TV, these devices may be required to access streaming apps.
Which streaming devices support Dolby Atmos?
Some of the best streaming devices support Dolby Atmos. The souped-up surround sound format has quickly become a staple in audiophile home theaters and hi-fi systems due to its immersive, three-dimensional soundscapes.
Roku Ultra, Apple TV 4K, Amazon Fire TV Cube, Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max, and Google Chromecast all support Dolby Atmos. The only streaming device on this list that doesn’t support this is the Roku Express 4K.
However, you also need a TV or sound system that supports the format. Not any old speaker you pull out of the back of the closet will do, but many of the best speakers and best soundbars will.
Which streaming device is best for an older TV?
There is no specific rule of thumb. Choose one that has the apps you want, supports all the extra features you want like Dolby Atmos, and pairs well with your other smart devices – if all your other devices are from Apple, for example, sticking with that ecosystem would probably make sense.
Which streaming devices have voice control?
We have good news: every streaming stick and device on this list supports voice commands. However, if you are looking for the best TV streaming device for voice control, then Amazon’s Fire TV voice control system is for you. It can be used to navigate playback, control smart devices in your home, switch to live channels, search for movies and TV shows, and do all the usual Alexa tasks such as: B. checking the weather or creating a to-do list.
Apple TV uses Siri and Chromecast also uses Google Assistant to the same effect. But Roku’s voice command system isn’t as robust. While you can search for shows and movies, it can’t connect to smart home devices, and we found that the Roku voice remote didn’t pick up on our voice commands as accurately.
Now that we’ve cleared up these frequently asked questions, let’s move on to the best streaming device for TV lovers. From Roku vs. Fire Stick to Apple TV’s latest offering, you’ll find options for every TV and budget below.
Source : mashable.com