Some of my clients are using streaming devices (or sticks) for viewing movies and TV shows on their TVs over the Internet. Quite popular — these over-the-top (OTT) services versus over-the-air (OTA) or cable TV channels. Personally I’ve used a Fire TV Stick since 2015. And if all you’re interested in is getting to Netflix, that’s available on all these devices; so, compare other features, as this Cnet article “Which streamer should you buy?” on January 18, 2018, discussed.
Plenty of options exist for streaming Netflix, YouTube, Amazon and the rest. We’ve reviewed almost all of them. Here are our picks.
Here’s a sample:
Why it’s great: Roku [the Roku Streaming Stick Plus] is my favorite streaming system, with the most apps, the simplest interface, the best search and a content-agnostic platform that doesn’t push any one provider, like Amazon video or iTunes over another. The Plus is the company’s cheapest streamer with 4K HDR, and even if your current TV doesn’t support those formats, your next one probably will. Its accent on practical features, like a remote that can control your TV’s volume and power, seals the deal.
The list of choices includes:
- Roku Streaming Stick Plus
- Roku Streaming Stick
- Roku Express
- Apple TV 4K
- Nvidia Shield TV
- Amazon Fire TV
- Chromecast