The Best Streaming Devices in 2023

Modern smart TVs offer ways to connect to your favorite streaming services, but the results are often disappointing. Not only are the built-in solutions less than ideal out of the box, they quickly become outdated. That’s where a dedicated streaming device comes in handy. You have your choice, too, with devices from brands like Roku, Google, Amazon, and Apple, each with their own OS and interface.

Which streaming OS should you choose?

The first thing to consider when buying a streaming device is which OS is right for you. While all streaming software lets you download and stream from the major apps, they each have their own individual perks that could influence your decision one way or another.

Roku is one of the most straightforward streaming operating systems there is. Everything in the UI is plainly laid out, so it’s easy for everyone from kids to seniors to navigate. You’ll find most major streaming apps on Roku’s platform like Disney+, Hulu, Prime Video, Netflix, etc. If you want a streaming OS that’s simple to use, Roku is the way to go.

Google TV (formally Android TV) feels as if Android was running on your TV. With the Google TV refresh, the OS is more focused on finding and suggesting content for you to watch, so if you’re after a more tailored streaming experience, Google TV could be perfect for you.

Amazon Fire TV is for those already in Amazon’s ecosystem, whether via a Prime membership or an Alexa device. The Fire TV is somewhat easy to use, but it’s also focused on suggesting content from Amazon’s streaming apps like Prime Video and Amazon Freevee. If you buy or rent content from Amazon or subscribe to Prime, then Fire TV is a logical choice.

Apple TV has the design language and features you’d expect from an Apple product. The UI of Apple TV is sleek and modern, and has features like AirPlay to stream content from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. If you’re already within Apple’s ecosystem, then Apple TV is a great option.

Best overall streaming device

For the best all-around streaming device, there’s no beating the Roku Streaming Stick 4K. It’s easy to set up (just plug it into HDMI and a power outlet), and, as mentioned above, Roku OS is simple to use and navigate.

The Streaming Stick 4K supports 4K and HDR (including HDR10+) content along with Dolby Vision. There’s also long-range wifi for better connectivity and the included remote has voice controls and TV power controls.

You can pick up the Roku Streaming Stick 4K from these stores:

Best Google TV streaming device 

For the best streaming device with Google TV, you can’t go wrong with the Chromecast with Google TV (4K).

Just like the Roku Streaming Stick 4K, this Chromecast plugs into the back of your TV via HDMI. Google TV is relatively easy to use, but not to the same extent as Roku OS. The device supports 4K and HDR content (including HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision). The included remote can quickly access YouTube and Netflix and the Google Assistant via dedicated buttons.

You can pick up a Chromecast with Google TV (4K) from these retailers:

Alternately, Google also released an HD version of Chromecast that supports 1080p output while still running the Google TV interface.

Chromecast with Google TV (HD) is available from:

Best Fire TV streaming device 

For the latest and greatest Fire TV device, you’ll want the Fire TV Stick 4K Max. The device supports 4K and HDR (including HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision) content. It also supports Wi-Fi 6 which should make streaming 4K content even better. The stick comes with the Alexa Voice Remote Enhanced remote that lets you talk to Alexa to control both your TV as well as your smart home devices.

The Fire TV Stick 4K Max is available from:

Best Apple TV streaming device 

If you’re in Apple’s ecosystem, then the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) is a great choice.

The Apple TV interface has a sleek look to it, with some hints of iOS sprinkled throughout. You’ll be able to access your favorite streaming services as well as Apple’s services like Apple TV+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade and more.

The Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) supports 4K and HDR content (including Dolby Vision). With each Apple TV 4K, you’ll also get the Siri Remote, which was recently updated to charge over USB-C. As the name suggests, you can talk to Siri to control your device.

The 64GB model of the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) connects to wifi, but the 128GB model also includes an Ethernet port and Thread smart home networking support.

The Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) is available from these retailers: