Best streaming device in 2021 – CNET [CNET]

October 19, 2021 Thomas Giboney technology

Thinking about getting a new device to connect to your TV to stream video, but you’re not exactly sure which streaming platform is the one to choose? You’ve come to the right place. This streaming device guide will help you find the best streaming device — something you’ll probably use every day for hours at a time to watch TV shows and movies. We’ve reviewed nearly every streaming device and major smart TV system on the market today, including Roku, Google Chromecast, Amazon and Apple TV. With the exception of smart TVs that actually run streaming software from Roku, Google or Amazon, these add-on streaming devices often have simpler remotes, streaming dongles, more apps, better search and more frequent updates than the smarts built into your TV set.

Roku, the biggest name in streaming hardware, has a $40 streaming device option called the Roku Express 4K Plus that has taken the top spot on our list of the best streaming devices. It’s $10 cheaper than the new Roku Streaming Stick 4K, yet is just as capable. Amazon’s new Fire TV Stick 4K Max sets the bar for speed on a streaming device and offers plenty of features at a slightly more expensive $55.

At the high end of the market, Apple’s latest version of its Apple TV 4K streaming box sells for $179 and comes with a couple of slick upgrades, including an all-new Siri remote control (the company is also selling the remote separately for $59).

Which one should you buy? Here are our favorite streaming devices available now.