10 Streaming Devices Every Cable Cutter Needs This Year
February 17, 2025In today’s digital age, cutting the cable cord has become a popular choice for many individuals seeking flexibility and cost savings in their entertainment options. With a plethora of streaming devices available, it is essential for anyone looking to enhance their viewing experience to understand the best options on the market. This article explores ten streaming devices that not only provide access to a vast array of content but also offer features that can significantly improve the viewer’s experience. By investing in one of these devices, readers can enjoy seamless streaming, enhanced picture quality, and the convenience of voice control, all while saving money on traditional cable subscriptions.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K – $49.99
- Best Value: Roku Express – $17.99
- Best for Smart Home Integration: Amazon Fire TV Cube – $139.99
- Best for Gamers: NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro – $198.40
- Best Budget Option: ONN Android TV 4K UHD Streaming Device – $28.00
- Best for Portability: Roku Streaming Stick 4K – $39.00
- Best for Google Ecosystem: Google Chromecast with Google TV – $49.99
- Best Renewed Option: Roku Express 4K+ (Renewed) – $34.99
- Best for Live TV: TiVo Stream 4K – $24.99
- Best for Basic Streaming: Amazon Fire TV Stick HD – $34.99
Selection Criteria
When selecting the best streaming devices, several criteria were considered, including ease of setup, content availability, streaming quality, and additional features such as voice control and smart home integration. Each device was evaluated based on user reviews and expert recommendations to ensure that it meets the needs of various types of viewers.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
The next generation of our most popular 4K streaming stick
Upgrade your 4K streaming experience with Fire TV Stick 4K—now powered by a quad-core 1.7 GHz processor for faster app starts and more fluid navigation. It makes getting to the good stuff even easier—all for an affordable price.
- Dolby Vision, Atmos, HDR10+, and HDR10 for the price
- Impressive performance
- Responses are lightning fast
- Remote can now power TV on/off, control volume, and change channels on some cable boxes
- Amazon needs to chill with the self-promotion
- No Google Play apps
- The menu system is still too bloated
- Requires inconvenient power adapter
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is the latest model that transforms any TV into a smart entertainment hub. With its AI-powered Fire TV Search and Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, it allows users to stream over 1.5 million movies and shows, including free and live TV options. It’s perfect for those cozy movie nights or when friends come over for a binge-watching session. Setting it up is a breeze—just plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and you’re ready to go. For anyone looking to cut the cable cord, this device is a casual recommendation that makes streaming feel effortless.
What People Say
Users rave about the ease of setup and the impressive speed of the Fire TV Stick 4K. Many appreciate the AI search feature, which helps them find content quickly without scrolling through endless menus.
- The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is here, and folks, it’s packing more features than I ever thought I needed in a tiny streaming device. Setup is ridiculously simple. Plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and boom—you’re streaming in minutes. The Wi-Fi 6 support means I no longer have to deal with buffering at the worst possible moment. It loads apps lightning fast, navigates menus smoothly, and lets me jump between streaming services with zero lag.- Gigner
Why Choose the Fire TV Stick 4K?
- Advanced 4K streaming
- AI-powered search
- Wi-Fi 6 support
- Alexa Voice Remote
- Access to over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a quiet night in or a lively gathering with friends, the Fire TV Stick 4K enhances the viewing experience with its vast library and seamless performance.
Roku Express
Roku Express delivers a smooth HD streaming experience on your TV at our best price. It’s easy to get started—just plug it into your TV with the included High Speed HDMI Cable and connect to the internet.
- Easy to use
- Very affordable
- Excellent companion/smartphone app
- Loaded with streaming apps
- Private listening with the Roku app
- It's slower, especially with Netflix, than alternatives that cost just a few bucks more
- No Ethernet port; restricted to Wi-Fi
- Weak Wi-Fi antenna
- Choppy, sluggish menu navigation
The Roku Express is a fantastic little device that turns any TV into a smart streaming powerhouse. With its easy setup—just plug it in and connect to Wi-Fi—it’s perfect for anyone looking to dive into the world of streaming without the hassle. Whether it’s catching up on favorite shows or discovering new content, this device has it all. Plus, it offers access to over 400 free live TV channels, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy a variety of entertainment without breaking the bank.
What People Say
Users appreciate how easy it is to set up and use the Roku Express. Many highlight its ability to breathe new life into older TVs, making streaming accessible and enjoyable without the need for a smart TV.
- I bought this for a flat screen old TV that’s not wireless and it works really good. I don’t have to use the antenna that you put in the back and put towards the window to get the channels because it gives you channels you know and plus for the price you can’t complain. It was easy to connect, and the size is perfect—it’s so little and cute.- Johanna
Why Choose the Roku Express?
- Seamless HD streaming experience
- Access to 400+ free live TV channels
- Compact and easy to set up
- Standard remote with shortcuts to popular channels
- Automatic software updates for the latest features
Ideal for Every Viewing Experience
Whether it’s a family movie night or a solo binge-watching session, the Roku Express fits perfectly into any viewing scenario, providing a wide range of content at their fingertips.
Amazon Fire TV Cube
Fire TV Cube combines Alexa and infrared technology for hands-free control of your entertainment system.
- Lets you control power, input switching and volume on your TV, sound bar or AV receiver using only voice commands
- Picks up voice commands even while video or music is playing
- Has Amazon's rigorous parental controls
- Intuitive interface
- Tons of content
- Great processor
- 4K, HDR, Dolby Atmos
- Ethernet adapter included
- Remote Control lacks volume and mute keys
- Using voice for more than simple controls is annoying
- Doesn't come with necessary HDMI cable
- Can't manually customize home screen
- Doesn't offer a YouTube app
- No Dolby Vision
The Amazon Fire TV Cube is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their streaming experience. With its sleek design and powerful features, it combines the best of both worlds—hands-free control with Alexa and stunning 4K Ultra HD quality. Perfect for those cozy movie nights or binge-watching sessions, this device makes it easy to access all your favorite streaming services. Plus, with Wi-Fi 6E support, it ensures smooth streaming even with multiple devices connected. It’s like having a personal assistant for your TV, making it a must-have for any cable cutter.
What People Say
Users rave about the Fire TV Cube’s speed and ease of use. Many appreciate how it simplifies their entertainment setup, allowing them to control everything with just their voice. The picture quality is frequently highlighted as a standout feature, making it a favorite among streaming enthusiasts.
- The first thing I noticed was how much faster everything is. Just moving around menus or opening apps is snappy and so much faster than the last model. The added I/O is a real step forward, and the HDMI in works effortlessly. Overall, it’s a great upgrade well worth it.- mromutt
Why Opt for the Fire TV Cube?
- Lightning-fast performance with an octa-core processor
- Hands-free Alexa control for easy navigation
- AI-powered search for smarter content discovery
- 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Vision support for stunning visuals
- Seamless integration with other smart home devices
Perfect for Any Viewing Occasion
Whether hosting a movie marathon with friends or enjoying a quiet evening alone, the Fire TV Cube adapts to any situation. Its hands-free capabilities and extensive content library ensure that everyone can find something to watch, making it perfect for family gatherings or solo relaxation.
NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro Streaming Media Player
NVIDIA SHIELD TV is the ultimate streaming media player for the modern living room. Enjoy a cinematic experience with the highest quality 4K HDR entertainment.
- Powerful Tegra X1 processor
- Great interface and voice search
- Easy to play your own video content
- Supports 4K Netflix
- Strong gaming support
- Excellent connectivity
- Futureproof hardware
- Excellent design
- Android TV store is limited
- Lacks web browser
- Larger than other boxes
- More expensive than any other streamer
- Doesn't include a remote (aside from the game controller)
- Additional (and expensive) equipment needed to take full advantage of features
The NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro is a powerhouse for anyone looking to take their streaming game to the next level. With its ability to deliver stunning 4K HDR content, it transforms any living room into a mini home theater. Whether it’s catching the latest blockbuster on Netflix or diving into a gaming session with GeForce NOW, this device has it all. The built-in Google Assistant makes it easy to control playback and access information without lifting a finger. It’s perfect for those cozy nights in or when friends come over for a movie marathon. For anyone serious about streaming, this device is a solid recommendation.
What People Say
Users appreciate the SHIELD’s speed and reliability, often mentioning how it enhances their streaming experience. The ability to upscale HD content to 4K is frequently highlighted, along with the seamless integration of gaming and streaming services, making it a favorite among tech enthusiasts.
- We’ve been using the nVidia Shield for several months now, and it’s GREAT! Very stable and snappy performance. All the streaming platform apps we’ve tried so far have worked flawlessly, hardly ever a pause or freeze. The Shield is obviously more expensive than the cheaper alternatives, but it is well worth it to get a great viewing experience.- Brent J. Nordquist
Why Choose the NVIDIA SHIELD?
- Real-time AI upscaling for clearer visuals
- Dolby Vision and Atmos support for immersive audio-visual experience
- Extensive 4K content availability across major streaming services
- GeForce NOW cloud gaming for a powerful gaming experience
- Voice control with Google Assistant and Alexa compatibility
Ideal for Every Entertainment Scenario
Whether it’s a family movie night or a gaming session with friends, the NVIDIA SHIELD adapts effortlessly. Its voice control features and vast content library ensure that everyone can find something to enjoy, making it ideal for any gathering or solo binge-watching.
ONN Android TV 4K UHD Streaming Device
With 4K Ultra High-Definition resolution and Dolby Audio support, you'll feel like you're a part of the action. Access 700,000+ movies and shows in one place.
- Affordable at $50
- 4K streaming with HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support
- Built-in Google Home functionality
- WiFi 6 compatibility
- USB 3.0 port for expandable storage
- Customizable remote button
- Remote finder feature
- Older processor (Amlogic S905X4 from 2019) leads to occasional performance hiccups
- 100Mbit Ethernet port may limit local streaming capabilities
- Fabric design prone to dust collection
- Cluttered remote with unnecessary buttons for some users
The ONN Android TV 4K UHD Streaming Device is a fantastic option for anyone looking to cut the cord and enjoy their favorite shows and movies in stunning clarity. With 4K Ultra HD resolution, it brings a vibrant viewing experience right to the living room. The Android TV operating system opens up a world of content, allowing users to download apps from the Google Play Store and access a variety of streaming services. Plus, the voice remote control with Google Assistant makes it easy to find and control content without fumbling through menus. It’s a great pick for both everyday viewing and special movie nights with friends or family.
What People Say
Users love the ONN Android TV for its affordability and performance. Many highlight how easy it is to set up and use, with the voice remote being a favorite feature. The ability to stream content without restrictions is also frequently mentioned, making it a popular choice among those looking for flexibility.
- For being so cheap, this thing does wonders. Plays anything I want with no issues, plus it isn’t locked down like a firestick is.- Ryan K.
Why Choose the ONN Android TV?
- 4K Ultra HD resolution for stunning picture quality
- Access to a wide range of apps through Android TV
- Voice control for hands-free operation
- Easy setup with included HDMI cable
- Compatible with various TV brands
Perfect for Any Viewing Occasion
Whether it’s a casual evening of binge-watching or a lively movie night with friends, the ONN Android TV fits right in. Its user-friendly interface and voice control make it accessible for everyone, ensuring that no one misses out on their favorite shows or movies.
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Equipped with a redesigned long-range Wi-Fi receiver, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K ensures smooth and fast streaming, even in rooms farther from your router.
- Fast, responsive performance
- Sleek, small design
- Supports Apple AirPlay and Dolby Vision
- Voice features still lag those of Amazon Fire TV and Google TV
- No Twitch app available
- 5GHz Wi-Fi hiccup in testing
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their streaming experience. With its compact design, it easily hides behind the TV, making it a perfect fit for any setup. This little device packs a punch with 4K resolution, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+, ensuring that every show and movie looks stunning. The included voice remote allows users to search for content effortlessly, making it a breeze to find favorite shows or discover new ones. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a reliable companion for all viewing occasions.
What People Say
Users rave about the Roku Streaming Stick 4K for its impressive performance and ease of use. Many appreciate the quick setup and the ability to stream in high quality without interruptions. The voice remote is frequently highlighted as a favorite feature, making navigation a breeze.
- The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is an awesome device! It’s small, super lightweight, and easy to set up. The performance is amazing for the price, delivering smooth streaming with great picture quality.- jim
Why Choose the Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
- Compact design that plugs directly into the TV
- Supports 4K, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+ for stunning visuals
- Voice remote for easy searching and control
- Access to a massive selection of free, live, and premium TV
- User-friendly interface with customizable home screen
Ideal for Any Streaming Situation
Whether it’s a family movie night or a solo binge-watching session, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K adapts to any occasion. Its portability means it can easily be taken on trips, allowing users to enjoy their favorite content wherever they go.
Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K)
In up to 4K HDR. Enjoy the entertainment you love, including movies, shows, live TV, and more in stunning 4K HDR.[1,3] And your home screen displays shows from all your services in one place, so there's no more switching from app to app to find what to watch.
- Sensible layout
- Lots of streaming services
- Remote included
- Smart home features
- General Google searches poorly formatted
- Continue Watching list is buggy
The Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K) is a fantastic addition for anyone looking to enhance their streaming experience. This sleek device not only supports 4K HDR content but also brings together all your favorite streaming services in one easy-to-navigate interface. With personalized recommendations based on viewing habits, it makes finding something to watch a breeze. Plus, the voice remote allows for hands-free searching, making it perfect for those cozy nights in or lively movie marathons with friends.
What People Say
Users love the Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K) for its seamless integration of multiple streaming services and the convenience of voice search. Many highlight the impressive picture quality and the ease of setup, making it a favorite among streaming enthusiasts.
- The Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K) brings all my streaming needs together in one slick, easy-to-use device. Setting it up was a breeze; it connected right to my Wi-Fi, and with the voice search, I don’t have to dig through endless menus to find what I want. The 4K HDR picture quality is excellent, with vivid colors and clear resolution.- W
Why Choose Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K)?
- Supports 4K HDR for stunning picture quality
- Voice remote for effortless searching
- Personalized content recommendations
- Compact design fits seamlessly with any TV setup
- Access to a wide range of streaming services
Perfect for Every Streaming Occasion
Whether it’s a family movie night or catching up on the latest series, the Chromecast with Google TV (4K) fits perfectly into any viewing scenario. Its compact size makes it easy to take along on trips, ensuring that entertainment is always at hand.
Roku Express 4K+
Every Roku player, including Roku Express 4K+, lets you access a massive selection of free, live, and premium TV, so you can watch the entertainment you want without needing to pay for cable.
- 4K streaming with HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG
- Easy, uncomplicated interface
- Supports Apple AirPlay 2
- Voice search feels underdeveloped
- No Dolby Vision support
The Roku Express 4K+ is a game-changer for anyone looking to cut the cord and dive into the world of streaming. This renewed device offers stunning 4K HDR picture quality, making every movie night feel like a trip to the theater. With a user-friendly interface, it brings together all the popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube in one place. Plus, the included voice remote allows for quick searches and easy control, perfect for those cozy evenings at home or when hosting friends for a binge-watching session.
What People Say
Users appreciate the Roku Express 4K+ for its ease of use and impressive streaming quality. Many highlight how quickly they were able to set it up and start enjoying their favorite content without any hassle.
- Setting up the Roku Express 4K+ was a breeze. I plugged it in, connected it to my Wi-Fi, and within minutes, I was streaming my favorite shows. The picture quality is fantastic, and I love that I can control my TV and the Roku with one remote. It really simplified my setup.- oldsports
Why Choose Roku Express 4K+?
- Brilliant 4K HDR picture quality
- Convenient voice remote for easy navigation
- Access to a wide range of free and paid channels
- Simple setup with everything included in the box
- Compatible with popular voice assistants
Ideal for Any Streaming Scenario
Whether it’s a quiet night in with a movie or a lively gathering with friends for a series marathon, the Roku Express 4K+ fits seamlessly into any occasion. Its compact design makes it easy to take along for travel, ensuring entertainment is always within reach.
TiVo Stream 4K
TiVo Stream 4K is powered by Android TV
Chromecast built-in allows for easy casting of videos, photos and more from Android or iOS devices to your TV.
- Affordable
- Android TV and Google Assistant functionality
- Live TV support through Locast and Sling
- Supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision
- TiVo Stream and stock Android TV interfaces aren't quite as sleek as competitors
- Remote is a little clunky
The TiVo Stream 4K is a fantastic option for anyone looking to consolidate their streaming experience. This little device brings together every streaming app and live TV on one screen, making it super convenient for daily use. With its stunning 4K UHD resolution and Dolby Vision HDR, it transforms movie nights into cinematic experiences. Plus, the integration of Google Assistant means that finding your favorite shows is as easy as asking. Whether it’s a quiet evening at home or a weekend binge-watch session with friends, the TiVo Stream 4K is ready to deliver.
What People Say
Users rave about the TiVo Stream 4K for its ability to combine multiple streaming services into one easy-to-use platform. Many appreciate the voice control feature, which makes finding shows a breeze, and the overall performance that rivals traditional cable services.
- I recently cut the cord and switched to the TiVo Stream 4K, and I couldn’t be happier. The interface is smooth, and switching between apps is quick. I love how it integrates live TV options with streaming services. It’s like having a mini cable box without the hefty bill.- D. Mosley
Why Choose TiVo Stream 4K?
- Centralized access to all streaming apps and live TV
- Stunning 4K UHD and Dolby Vision HDR support
- Voice control with Google Assistant for easy navigation
- User-friendly interface that simplifies content discovery
- Compact design that fits seamlessly into any entertainment setup
Perfect for Every Viewing Experience
The TiVo Stream 4K is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy movie night with family or a lively gathering with friends for a series binge. Its sleek design makes it easy to set up in any room, ensuring that entertainment is always just a click away.
Amazon Fire TV Stick HD
Amazon's Fire TV Stick HD is now the company's sole 1080p media streamer, replacing the Fire TV Stick and the Fire TV Stick Lite. It uses the top-notch Amazon Fire TV platform, offers Alexa voice control, and even supports HDR10 and Dolby Atmos content.
- Affordable
- Full-featured Fire TV platform with Alexa voice control
- Supports HDR10 and Dolby Atmos
- Remote has volume controls
- Occasionally choppy interface
- Uses Wi-Fi 5 instead of Wi-Fi 6
The Amazon Fire TV Stick HD is a game-changer for anyone looking to ditch cable without sacrificing their favorite shows. This compact device plugs right into the HDMI port of any TV, transforming it into a smart entertainment hub. With access to over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes, plus the ability to stream from popular services like Netflix and Prime Video, it’s perfect for both casual viewers and binge-watchers alike. The Alexa Voice Remote makes it easy to find what to watch, just by asking. Whether it’s a quiet night in or a gathering with friends, this little stick has everything covered.
What People Say
Users love the Amazon Fire TV Stick HD for its seamless setup and vast content library. Many appreciate the Alexa Voice Remote, which simplifies searching for shows and controlling playback. The overall performance and streaming quality have received high praise, making it a favorite among those transitioning from cable.
- I had my old Firestick for seven years, and when it finally gave out, I was thrilled with how easy the new one was to set up. Just a few steps and I was back to watching my favorite shows. The new remote is a great upgrade, especially with the volume control. Streaming quality is noticeably better, and it’s been a fantastic addition to our entertainment setup.- TomatoLady
Why Choose Amazon Fire TV Stick HD?
- Stream in Full HD with a wide range of content
- Access to over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes
- Voice control with Alexa for effortless navigation
- Compact design for easy portability and setup
- Compatible with various streaming services and live TV options
Perfect for Any Viewing Occasion
The Fire TV Stick HD is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family movie night or a solo binge-watch session. Its portability means it can easily be taken to a friend’s house or on vacation, ensuring that entertainment is always within reach.
FAQ
What should someone consider when choosing a streaming device for cutting the cable?
When selecting a streaming device, he or she should consider compatibility with their existing TV, the quality of streaming (such as 4K support), and the availability of apps for their favorite services. It’s also important to think about the user interface and ease of setup. Some devices, like the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, offer voice control features and a wide range of content, while others, like the Roku Express, are known for their simplicity and affordability. Additionally, they should check if the device supports the latest Wi-Fi standards for better streaming performance.
How easy is it to set up a streaming device, and what common issues might arise during installation?
Setting up a streaming device is generally straightforward, often requiring just a few steps: plugging it into the HDMI port, connecting to Wi-Fi, and signing into streaming accounts. However, some users may encounter issues such as connectivity problems or difficulty with remote pairing. He or she should ensure their Wi-Fi signal is strong and that the device is compatible with their TV’s HDMI input. If problems occur, restarting the device or checking for software updates can often resolve them.
Are there any hidden costs or subscriptions associated with using streaming devices?
While many streaming devices are affordable upfront, users should be aware that accessing certain content may require additional subscriptions. For instance, services like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+ typically charge monthly fees. He or she should also consider that some free channels may have ads, and not all content is available for free. It’s wise to review the available apps and their associated costs before purchasing a device to ensure it meets their entertainment needs without unexpected expenses.
Wrapping Up
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Our Suggestion
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Best Value
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Best for Smart Home
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$49.99
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$139.99
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- Dolby Vision, Atmos, HDR10+, and HDR10 for the price
- Impressive performance
- Responses are lightning fast
- Remote can now power TV on/off, control volume, and change channels on some cable boxes
- Amazon needs to chill with the self-promotion
- No Google Play apps
- The menu system is still too bloated
- Requires inconvenient power adapter
- Fast, responsive performance
- Sleek, small design
- Supports Apple AirPlay and Dolby Vision
- Voice features still lag those of Amazon Fire TV and Google TV
- No Twitch app available
- 5GHz Wi-Fi hiccup in testing
- Has Amazon's rigorous parental controls
- Intuitive interface
- Tons of content
- Great processor
- 4K, HDR, Dolby Atmos
- Ethernet adapter included
- Remote Control lacks volume and mute keys
- Using voice for more than simple controls is annoying
- Doesn't come with necessary HDMI cable
- Can't manually customize home screen
- Doesn't offer a YouTube app
- No Dolby Vision
In conclusion, choosing the right streaming device can greatly enhance the viewing experience for anyone looking to cut the cable cord. With options ranging from budget-friendly devices to high-end models with advanced features, there is something for everyone. By considering the top picks outlined in this article, readers can make informed decisions that align with their entertainment preferences and budget.
