Nearly every TV on the market today is a smart TV, but not every operating system is a winner. A media streaming device allows you to pair your preferred user interface with any screen that has an HDMI port, making it faster and less glitchy than older or less expensive smart TVs. These gadgets make it easier for cord cutters to access millions of hours of content from streaming services, even while traveling. We tested streaming players from popular brands and evaluated their usability and performance to compile a list of the best devices you can buy. Factors to consider include the operating system, connectivity options, video and audio features, and voice control capabilities. Popular options include Google’s Chromecast, Apple TV 4K, Amazon Fire TV Sticks, and Roku devices, each with a unique interface and operating system. Most devices come with a remote for voice-controlled searches and operations, and they connect to your TV via an HDMI port or Wi-Fi. Streaming devices vary in their support for high-resolution content and other features like HDR and Dolby Vision. Google’s Chromecast with Google TV 4K and Roku Streaming Stick 4K are recommended for their user-friendly interfaces, expansive content libraries, and support for 4K content. These devices offer unified home screens, content suggestions across major platforms, and voice control capabilities. They are ideal for accessing free content and popular streaming services without the need for cable.
