The Best Media Streaming Device For 2024
Whether you’re searching for the best media streaming device so that you can watch your favorite shows and movies, or looking for the best one in order to get all of your favorite music, a streaming device is undoubtedly something that you need. Streaming devices are able to do what other devices cannot – and that’s bringing everything together in one place.
Thanks to them, we can now enjoy all of our favorite entertainment from anywhere at any time. So which streaming device should you purchase? Well, it depends on your needs and personal preferences. In this article, we will discuss some of the best options available today so read on to learn more!
We think the product that comes highly recommended for best media streaming device is Xiaomi Mi Box S 4K HDR Android TV Remote Streaming Media Player with Google Assistant Streaming Device 4K Ultra HD. In case you need more alternatives and more in-depth guidance, you may explore the following.
RELATED: We did the research for you. With our tests and trials, here are accurate descriptions of the best device to stream tv available in the market.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Xiaomi Mi Box S 4K HDR Android TV Remote Streaming Media Player with Google Assistant Streaming Device 4K Ultra HD]()
- 【High Performance with Storage Capacity】2GB RAM + 8GB Storage. Install tons of awesome apps, watch extended cuts, and play more games while enjoying faster performance and stability.
- 【Cinematic Experience 】High Clarity 4K HDR . Xiaomi Mi Box S wiht features the latest 4K HDR technology and high-speed 4K processing for up to 60fps playback. Enjoy an ultra high-definition, lifelike viewing experience. Premium Audio puts you in the action. Dolby and DTS deliver crisper, three-dimensional surround sound.
- 【Powerful Streaming Media Player 】Our mi box streaming media player delivers a fast, fluid 4K streaming experience. Enjoy a lightning-fast interface and channels like Sling, Hulu, Netflix, and Prime Video that launch in a snap on the fastest, most powerful player ever.
- 【Remote Control】Control your smart home devices conveniently. With the Google Assistant, you can quickly access entertainment, get answers and control devices around your home. Just press the mic button on your remote to get started.
- 【Easy to Connect】Our Mi box S Supports Wired & Wi-Fi connections. Get up and running in 3 simple steps. Step 1. Attach Mi Box to TV. Step 2, Connect to internet. Step 3. Start streaming.
TOP Choice #2
![Roku Streaming Stick+ | HD/4K/HDR Streaming Device with Long-range Wireless and Roku Voice Remote with TV Controls]()
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, mute, and control your streaming all with one remote—use your voice to quickly search across channels, turn captions on, and more in a touch
- Private listening on mobile: Use the free Roku mobile app to pump up the volume on your shows without disturbing the house
- Brilliant picture quality: Experience your favorite shows with stunning detail and clarity—whether you’re streaming in HD, 4K, or HDR, you’ll enjoy picture quality that’s optimized for your TV with sharp resolution and vivid color
- Works with popular voice assistants: Enjoy easy voice control with Siri, Alexa, or Hey Google
- Tons of power, tons of fun: Snappy and responsive, you’ll stream your favorites with ease—from movies and series on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Netflix, to cable alternatives like Sling, enjoy the most talked-about TV across thousands of channels
- Automatic software updates: Get the most up to date software including all the latest features and available channels without even thinking about it
- Share it with Apple AirPlay: Effortlessly share videos, photos, music, and more from your Apple devices to your TV
- Endless entertainment: Stream what you love, including free TV, live news, sports, and more. It’s easy to stream what you love and cut back on cable bills with access to 500,000+ movies and TV episodes across thousands of free and paid channels
- Wireless that goes the distance: Basement rec room Backyard movie night Bring ‘em on. The long-range wireless receiver gives you extended range and a stronger signal for smooth streaming even in rooms farther from your router
- Setup is a cinch: Plug it in, connect to the internet, and start streaming—it’s that simple
TOP Choice #3
![NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro 4K HDR Streaming Media Player; High Performance, Dolby Vision, 3GB RAM, 2x USB, Works with Alexa]()
- Power Source Type: Corded Electric
- Dolby Vision - Atmos. Bring your home theater to life with Dolby Vision HDR, and surround sound with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus—delivering ultra-vivid picture quality and immersive audio.
- Included Components: Remote Controller
- The Best of the Best. SHIELD TV delivers an amazing Android TV streaming media player experience, thanks to the new NVIDIA Tegra X1+ chip. Enhance HD video in real-time to 4K for clearer, crisper visuals using next-generation AI upscaling. 2x USB 3.0 ports for storage expansion, USB cameras, keyboards, controllers, and more. Plex Media Server built-in, 3 GB RAM, and 16 GB storage.
- Voice Control. The built-in Google Assistant is at your command. See photos, live camera feeds, weather, sports scores, and more on the big screen. Dim the lights and immerse yourself in your favorite show or music using only your voice. And control your SHIELD hands-free with Google Home or Alexa and Echo.
- Best-In-Class Design. Designed for the most demanding users and beautifully designed to be the perfect centerpiece of your entertainment center, SHIELD TV Pro levels you up to more storage space, more RAM, the expandability of 2x USB 3.0 ports, and Plex Media Server. Get the best connectivity with Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band AC Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.0. The all-new remote is more advanced than ever with motion-activated, backlit buttons—including a customizable menu button. Plus, with voice control, Bluetooth, IR control for your TV, and a built-in remote control locator, you have the most advanced remote yet.
- Unlimited Entertainment. Enjoy the most 4K HDR content of any streaming media player, and access to thousands of apps and games, including top apps like Netflix,YouTube, Prime Video, Disney + and Hulu. Add a game controller (sold separately) and play today’s most popular games like Fortnite and GeForce Now. Even stream from your phone with built-in Chromecast 4K.
- Outrageously powerful: Enjoy a lightning-fast interface and channels like Sling, Hulu, Netflix, and Prime Video that launch in a snap on the fastest, most powerful Roku player ever
- Cinematic streaming: Roku Ultra is the centerpiece of your home theater with spectacular 4K and Dolby Vision picture plus immersive Dolby Atmos sound
- Works with popular voice assistants: Enjoy easy voice control with Siri, Alexa, or Hey Google
- Private listening: Plug headphones into the Roku remote with headphone jack or use a wireless pair with the Roku mobile app to listen without disturbing a quiet house
- Voice search & control: Quickly search, play entertainment, and control your streaming device with the Roku voice remote
- Our best Wi-Fi: Enjoy fast, smooth TV streaming in any room in the house with our best Wi-Fi or choose to wire up over Ethernet
- Share it with Apple AirPlay: Effortlessly share videos, photos, music, and more from your Apple devices to your TV
- Watch what you love: Upgrade your streaming with a massive selection of free, live, and premium TV, including Roku Originals and 200+ free Live TV channels on The Roku Channel
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your streaming device with one Roku voice remote
- Find your lost remote: Simply press the button on your streaming device and your Roku remote will play a sound
- Fast. Really Fast. SHIELD TV takes media streaming to a whole new level, powered by the NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor, SHIELD TV is the world’s most powerful Android TV streaming media player.
- Voice Control. The built-in Google Assistant is at your command. See photos, live camera feeds, weather, sports scores, and more on the big screen. Dim the lights and immerse yourself in your favorite show or music using your voice. And control your SHIELD hands-free with Google Home or Alexa and Echo.
- Dolby Vision - Atmos. Bring your home theater to life with Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos surround sound—delivering ultra-vivid picture quality and immersive audio. Enhance HD video in real-time to 4K for clearer, crisper visuals using next-generation AI upscaling.
- Power Source Type: Corded Electric
- Unlimited Entertainment. Get the most 4K content of any streaming media player. Watch Netflix, Amazon Video, Disney+ and Vudu in crisp 4K HDR, and YouTube, Hulu Live, Google Play Movies & TV, and more in 4K. Stream from your phone with built-in Chromecast 4K. Add a game controller (sold separately) and play today’s most popular games like Fortnite with GeForce NOW
- Included Components: Remote Controller
- Best-In-Class Design. The new SHIELD TV is compact, stealth, and designed to disappear behind your entertainment center, right along with your cables. With Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band AC Wi-Fi, a built-in power supply, and a microSD card slot for storage expansion, it is powerful, feature-packed, and built for behind-the-scenes brilliance. The all-new remote is more advanced than ever with motion-activated, backlit buttons—including a user-customizable button. With voice control, Bluetooth, IR control for your TV, and a built-in lost remote locator, you have the most advanced remote yet.
6
![Roku Ultra | Streaming Media Player 4K/HD/HDR with Premium JBL Headphones]()
- Automatic software updates: Get the most up to date software including all the latest features and available channels without even thinking about it
- Take control of your TV: Use your voice to set personal shortcuts for one-touch control, search across channels, turn captions on, and more with the enhanced voice remote; plus, enjoy private listening with the included Premium JBL headphones and TV controls
- Enjoy free TV: Stream live TV, 24/7 news, sports, movies, shows, and more on The Roku Channel, plus a huge collection of free entertainment from top channels on Featured Free
- Endless entertainment: Stream it all, including free TV, live news, sports, and more; never miss award-winning shows, the latest blockbuster hits, and more; access 500,000+ movies and TV episodes; stream what you love and cut back on cable TV bills
- New! Disney+ and Apple TV are now streaming on all Roku devices
- Brilliant picture quality: Experience your favorite TV in stunning detail and clarity; Perfect for HD, HDR, and 4K streaming, enjoy picture that’s optimized for your TV with sharp resolution and vivid color
- Power, picture, performance: Roku Ultra lets you stream free, live and premium TV over the Internet; right on your 4K TV; Roku’s top of the line media player with a quad-core processor and our best wireless, Roku Ultra is perfect for heavy streaming in HD, 4K, and HDR
- The free Roku mobile app: Turn your iOS or Android device into the ultimate companion; control your Roku media player or Roku TV, use voice search, enjoy private listening, and more on iOS and Android
- Fully loaded: It’s got all the bells and whistles, including channels that launch in a snap, lost remote finder, USB and micro SD ports; You can stream from movies and series on Apple TV, Netflix, Disney +, The Roku Channel, HBO, Showtime and Google Play to cable alternatives like Hulu with Live TV
- Ultimate connectivity: No matter what you’re streaming, enjoy a strong connection with dual-band wireless or use the Ethernet port for wired streaming
- 【SD/SDHC reader】- Portable Media player directly read SD/SDHC card, and play or manage files on TV, can read SD/SDHC card also on computer.
- 【File management】- Can manage the files in devices connected to, manage delete or copy between each others.
- 【Multifunctional Media Player】- Support Repeat, Zoom, FF, BF, Rotate functions. Support HDMI, CVBS, and YPbPr video output. Support external subtitles: SRT/ASS(UTF8,GBK,BIG5,etc.)
- 【1080P MP4 Player】- Supports most Video decoding formats: RM, RMVB, AVI, DIVX, MKV, MOV, HDMOV, MP4, M4V, PMP, AVC, FLV, VOB, MPG, DAT, MPEG, TS, TP, M2TS, WMV, (H.264,H.263,WMV9/VC-1,MPEG1/2/4)
- 【USB Storage】- Build in internal flash enables it as USB 2.0 storage. Only 10MB capacities, it can easily connect to any USB HOST port, no external power supply needed. Compatible with both Windows and MAC OS.
8
![Roku Express | Easy High Definition (HD) Streaming Media Player (2018)]()
- 500, 000+ movies and TV episodes, with voice search across 1, 000+ top channels. Plus, catch hit movies, popular shows and more with no subscription or fees on the Roku channel
- Remote control - Roku Standard IR remote with channel shortcut buttons. Streaming player includes IR receiver
- Simple setup with an included High speed HDMI cable
- Tons of streaming services available. From movies and series on Netflix, Prime Video, HBO NOW and SHOWTIME to cable alternatives like Sling TV or YouTube TV to live sports and news on CBS News, ABC News and ESPN
- Note: kindly refer to the user manual provided as a PDF manual in the product description section
- Easy-to-use remote, intuitive navigation
- Free Roku mobile app for private listening, voice search and more. Power consumption
- Each set of bundle comes with 6-feet high-speed 4K HDMI cable (meet the latest standards) and Roku Ultra streaming media 4K/HD/HDR player in a specially designed and well fit Strong and Firm White Box (see the Box packaging of the bundle in the 2nd image); the Box can also be used to store small items additionally in the future
- Endless entertainment: Access 500,000+ movies and TV episodes; stream live TV, 24/7 news, sports, movies, shows, and more on The Roku Channel, plus a huge collection of free entertainment from top channels on Featured Free; new Disney+ and Apple TV are now streaming on all Roku devices;
- Take control of your TV: Use your voice to set personal shortcuts for one-touch control, search across channels, turn captions on, and more with the enhanced voice remote; enjoy private listening with the included Premium JBL headphones and TV controls; turn your iOS or Android device into the ultimate companion; control your Roku media player or Roku TV, use voice search, enjoy private listening, and more on iOS and Android
- Fully loaded: It’s got all the bells and whistles, including channels that launch in a snap, lost remote finder, USB and micro SD ports; You can stream from movies and series on Apple TV, Prime Video, Netflix, Disney +, The Roku Channel, HBO, Showtime and Google Play to cable alternatives like Hulu with Live TV
- Power, picture, performance: Roku Ultra lets you stream free, live and premium TV over the Internet; right on your 4K TV; Roku’s top of the line media player with a quad-core processor and our best wireless, Roku Ultra is perfect for heavy streaming in HD, 4K, and HDR; Brilliant picture quality: Experience your favorite TV in stunning detail and clarity; perfect for HD, HDR, and 4K streaming, enjoy picture that’s optimized for your TV with sharp resolution and vivid color Endless entertainment:
- Cinematic experience - Watch in vibrant 4K Ultra HD with support for Dolby Vision, HDR, and HDR10+.
- Home theater audio with Dolby Atmos - Feel scenes come to life with support for immersive Dolby Atmos audio on select titles with compatible home audio systems.
- Easy to set up, compact enough to stay hidden - Plug in behind your TV, turn on the TV, and connect to the internet to get set up.
- Simple and intuitive - Quickly access your favorite apps, live TV, and things you use most, all from the main menu.
- Alexa Voice Remote - Search and launch content with your voice. Get to favorite apps quickly with preset buttons. Control power and volume with one remote.
- Endless entertainment - Stream more than 1 million movies and TV episodes from Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Peacock, and more, plus listen to millions of songs. Subscription fees may apply.
- Live and free TV - Watch live TV, news, and sports with subscriptions to SLING TV, YouTube TV, and others. Stream for free with Pluto TV, IMDb TV, YouTube and more.
- Control your smart home - Ask Alexa to check weather, dim the lights, view live camera feeds, stream music and more.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look For in a best media streaming device?
You may have some trouble making a purchase if you don't research it thoroughly. You are expected to invest time and focus on best media streaming device before investing in them. Usually, it will take you a long time to research a favorite product. But rest assured, we are here to assist you with your best media streaming device issue, no matter what time of day or night.
Although choosing a product is complicated, it will be more accessible and more available to everyone with today's information technology network. You are now given available sources of information such as famous websites, sale forums, or even customer's feedback. It can be said that information from these sources about best media streaming device will be beneficial to you.
So now you are expected to focus on needed criteria about best media streaming device. All of them will come with your investment.
App Selection
This has always been the main factor when choosing a streaming device. However, app selections have become more similar, at least for major streaming services, and it is now easy to choose an app. The app list will show you which service is available.
Private Listening Options
Bluetooth headphones are supported by many devices. This is useful for those times when you don’t want to wake your children or spouse. Roku devices also allow wired headphones via the Roku mobile application and the remote control of its set-top boxes.
Streaming Stick Vs Box
Although the difference is not significant, a stick refers to what you would imagine. It is a stick-like device which plugs into your television. Some designs have evolved over the years so dongles are now called dongles.
Streaming boxes such as the Apple TV sit under your TV, and are connected via HDMI cables.
If you don't have any wall-mounted TVs and are unable to place a box, there is no benefit to them. If this is the case, you can get a stick to hide it behind your TV.
Streaming boxes such as the Apple TV sit under your TV, and are connected via HDMI cables.
If you don't have any wall-mounted TVs and are unable to place a box, there is no benefit to them. If this is the case, you can get a stick to hide it behind your TV.
Performance
Set-top boxes load faster than streaming sticks and your spending will affect the speed and smoothness of the process.
Captive Portal Support
You might encounter Wi-Fi networks which require you to log in using a web browser if your streaming device is being taken on the road. It is also known as "captive portal" and it does not support all streaming devices.
Remote Control Features
While some remotes have buttons that allow you to fast-forward, rewind and perform other functions, others are simpler. Remotes that can turn on your TV's volume and have microphones to allow you to speak commands. There is no perfect remote, but you can look through the included ones to determine what is most important.
Ecosystem Tie-ins
Apple TV is the only way to access pple services and apps (like Apple Arcade or Fitness+), although Apple TV has an Apple TV app that allows you to view Apple TV+ content and rent videos from iTunes. Fire TV is the best way to access Amazon Prime Video. Google's music and video services can be accessed through Chromecast and Android TV. Roku offers apps for Amazon and Google Play Movies & TV. However, it is not as sophisticated and has fewer smart home controls than other platforms.
Resolution
If you have a 4K television, and a fast internet connection, then a television streaming device that supports 4K is the perfect way to watch ultra-high-definition content. You can future-proof your set by purchasing a streaming device that supports 4K resolution if you do not have a 4K TV.
Content Discovery Features
The media-streaming device is evolving beyond static apps. Roku Feed, the Apple TV's TV app (TV), and Amazon recommendations are available directly from the Fire TV Home screen. These approaches can be compared to help you decide which is most attractive.
Connectivity
Are you planning to connect a USB storage device or ethernet cable or a sound system using an optical or analog audio cable? You should ensure that your streaming box supports the correct connections. If you are concerned about your home network's bandwidth, you will also need a device that supports 802.11ax Wi Fi (or WiFi 6),
In general, our information is accurate because we are product consultants with a wealth of experience. In addition, we constantly update the best media streaming device information. Since the data is current and accurate, you can rest assured.
Any problems with best media streaming device should be reported to us so we can improve your experience. Please don't hesitate to contact us! We are all available to give you help.
FAQs
What Is The Point Of A Streaming Stick If You Have A Smart TV?
Although many smart TVs today come pre-installed to run a variety of apps, it is true that external streaming devices almost always enhance the interface for a particular app.Amazon's Fire Stick gives you more control over your TV than standard Amazon TV apps. Other products from Amazon come with Alexa, giving you additional options to use your voice to control your TV.
A smart TV may not come with every available streaming service. Apple TV Plus is a rare app that comes preinstalled on smart TVs. This is why you need Apple's 4K HDR streaming device, which Panasonic TVs do not support.
What Is A Streaming Device And How Does It Work?
A streaming device, or streaming stick, allows you to stream (i.e. You can stream (or streaming stick) entertainment content, such as movies, TV series, music or photos. It is usually connected to an HDMI port.The apps that you will have access to depend on which streamer you are using. It's worth noting, however, that a subscription does not automatically come with a service. If you wish to view Netflix for example, you'll need to purchase it separately. However, there are some deals available for certain streaming services.
How Much Data Does TV Streaming Use?
This depends on the resolution and platform you are streaming from. Based on data collected from major streaming platforms, bandwidth usage can drop to hundreds of megabytes an hour for low definition (480p) videos. However, streaming services that stream standard HD/1080p video report between 2 and 3 gigabytes an hour. You can expect to see 4K video at 7 to 8GB an hour, depending on the video.Can I Get All The Channels I Want On Any Device?
Each streaming device can access major streaming services like Netflix, Hulu and HBO Max. However, all streaming services may not have the same access. The Spectrum TV app is a good example. Although it is accessible on all platforms, the app is not available for Amazon Fire TV devices. Before you make a purchase, it is a smart idea to check that the device supports all of your apps. You might find yourself in a difficult situation if your phone doesn't support one of your favourite services.Will A Streaming Device Work In Your Country?
Yes. Yes. You can use a VPN to bypass restrictions on certain services or shows.Do Streaming Devices Have Monthly Fees?
No. No. Monthly fees are not charged for streaming devices. You will need to pay monthly fees to watch certain channels, such as Netflix and HBO Max.Do You Need A Streaming Device With A Smart TV?
Not necessarily. Smart TVs often come equipped with their own streaming platforms that allow users to download top apps such as Netflix or Hulu. Samsung smart TVs have a lot of options. TVs are now compatible with major streaming services like Roku, Google Chromecast and Amazon Fire TV.What Kind Of Internet Connection Do You Need For Your Streaming Device To Be Effective?
A minimum 5Mbps internet connection is required to stream the majority of streaming content at 1080p. You will be able to stream 4K video without any interruptions if you have more bandwidth.READ NEXT: The 10 Best Tablet 13 Inch Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
About Harlan Ellison
