And because of that, the devices you use to stream are some of the most important – but often overlooked – gadgets we all have in our homes. The new remote has a dedicated power button to control your TV, and the touchpad has been replaced with an iPod-like jog wheel. It remains to be seen if Apple added the ability to find the new remote using Siri. That would be useful for when it inevitably gets lost in your couch. Enough about the remote, the Apple TV 4K will allow you to stream shows from every major streaming platform, play games available in the App Store or Apple Arcade, and can stream Apple’s Fitness Plus workouts. The only downside of the Apple TV 4K is its price. Starting at $179 for 32GB of storage, or $199 for 64GB of storage, it’s by far the most expensive streaming device on our list. Read the full review: Apple TV 4K (2021) review Pros:
Access to Apple’s App StoreA faster processor should future-proof the new box New Siri Remote is the star of the show
Cons:
Expensive compared to the competition
It will stream 4K content and has access to Roku’s suite of apps and services, and even supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Roku has added AirPlay 2 and HomeKit compatibility to all 4K streaming devices in its lineup, meaning Apple fans can stream directly to the box from their Apple devices or even use Siri to control the TV. Prefer Alexa or Google Assistant? The Roku Ultra supports both of those, as well. Pros:
It does just about everything you’d want from a streaming boxBuilt-in remote finder? What’s not to loveWide range of apps and service support
Cons:
The built-in voice assistant could use some workContent deals with Google are distracting and concerning
In order to accommodate the new remote, the new Chromecast now uses the Google TV interface. At $49.99, it’s one of the more affordable streaming devices you’ll find. It plugs directly into the HDMI port on your TV, with a small disc-shaped unit attached. You’ll get 4K content with HDR support and access to Google’s growing app library that includes nearly every major streaming service available. Pros:
AffordableIntegrates with Google Home and Assistant Finally has a remote
Cons:
It doesn’t offer more advanced video protocols
It supports Dolby Atmos for the audio aficionados. As for streaming, you’ll get access to the Fire TV catalog of apps and services with support for every major platform and even some games. Pros:
Very affordableReliable experienceRespectable streaming catalog
Cons:
The Chromecast is more affordable
You can stream 4K shows through any of the supported streaming services (which includes all of the major players like Netflix, YouTube and Disney+), and if the service supports it, you can take advantage of the Fire TV Cube’s support for Dolby Vision, HDR, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos audio. The Fire TV Cube appealing to some because it can also be used to control the rest of your home entertainment setup, including your sound system or TV itself, using the built-in IR sensor. Pros:
A dedicated Echo and Fire TV device in oneControls your entire entertainment center
Cons:
More expensive option The HDMI cable doesn’t come in the box
Here’s a look at how the top home streaming devices compare: Lastly, consider your budget. The Apple TV 4K is by far the most expensive device we included in this list, but for those who are deeply invested in Apple’s ecosystem, it’s worth the extra price. However, for those who want something more flexible, a Roku or Google device with support for all three assistant platforms may make more sense. This table breaks these down to help you with your choice: After connecting it, you’ll want to ensure your TV is on the input corresponding with the HDMI port your streaming stick is in. For other devices, you can connect them through Wi-Fi to use them.
