![]() There are cheaper alternatives with fewer features, but we think this model is the best overall value for anyone who wants a fully capable streaming device. This helps cement the Ultra as the most versatile and reliable media player in its price range, and we like that it's more universal than Amazon, Apple, and Google devices. ![]() The remote also has a handful of extra perks that make it a bit more convenient than some competitors, including a rechargeable battery, a private listening port for headphones (earbuds included), and a "lost remote" chime.Ĭompared to less expensive Roku models, the Ultra adds an Ethernet port for a wired internet connection, a USB port for local media playback, built-in Dolby Atmos decoding, and Bluetooth support for pairing wireless headphones. It even has a hands-free feature for voice controls with a wake word rather than holding a button. ![]() The 2022 Ultra also comes with Roku's Voice Remote Pro so you can adjust volume and search for content with spoken commands. In addition to standard HDR10, it has support for the more advanced Dolby Vision and HDR10+ formats, which can more precisely tell compatible TVs how to render HDR images on a scene-by-scene basis. With HDR capabilities, the Roku Ultra displays richer colors and better contrast when playing HDR-enabled videos on a compatible TV. Just connect the box to your TV via HDMI, and install all your favorite streaming channels to get started. The Roku OS features a huge library of apps with access to all of the best streaming services, including Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu, Peacock, Amazon Prime, Paramount Plus, and Max. It supports 4K video and all of the major high dynamic range ( HDR) formats to help you get the most out of a 4K TV. The Roku Ultra has virtually everything a buyer could want out of a streaming box. Pros: 4K HDR streaming with Dolby Vision and HDR10+, wireless headphone support with Bluetooth, rechargeable remote with hands-free voice control, simple navigation, Ethernet port, USB inputĬons: Some may find Roku's interface to be outdated, remote charges via Micro USB rather than USB-C Connectivity: HDMI 2.0b, USB 3.0, Ethernet, Wi-FI, Bluetooth.Video: 4K, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG.The Nvidia Shield TV is a powerful media device with support for Android gaming and cloud services like GeForce Now when you pair it with a controller. ![]() The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a tiny streaming device with Ultra HD playback, impressive navigation speed, and a voice-controlled Alexa remote.īest for gamers: Nvidia Shield TV Pro - See at Amazon The newest Chromecast features a built-in library of apps and comes with a Google Assistant voice remote that makes it a great fit for people already plugged into other Google products.īest with Alexa: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max - See at Amazon The Apple TV 4K is the perfect fit for enthusiasts who want powerful performance, extra storage space, and seamless integration with the rest of Apple's ecosystem.īest for Google users: Google Chromecast - See at Walmart The Fire TV Stick Lite only supports high definition (HD) playback rather than 4K, but it's inexpensive and comes with a handy Alexa voice remote.īest high-end: Apple TV 4K - See at Best Buy The Roku Ultra is the most comprehensive streaming device in its class, with 4K playback, support for every major HDR format, a rechargeable voice remote, and some extra perks like an Ethernet port and USB input.īest budget: Fire TV Stick Lite - See at Amazon If your TV's OS doesn't play nice with other smart devices you already own, you can pick a streaming player that supports the digital assistant you use the most to create an integrated ecosystem.īased on a combination of hands-on testing and a decade worth of experience covering home entertainment products, these are the best streaming devices you can buy for different budgets and types of users. Separate streaming players are also a perfect solution for anyone who has an old "dumb" TV that needs some extra smarts.ĭifferent brands use different operating systems (OS) and voice search platforms, including Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri. The best streaming devices deliver access to all your favorite apps, along with speedy navigation and convenient voice search capabilities. These compact devices connect to your display using an HDMI cable and are typically designed as set-top boxes that rest on your TV stand, or streaming sticks that hang right out of your TV's HDMI port. If you're unhappy with the platform your TV comes with and you crave snappier performance, a standalone streaming device is exactly what you need. Though all of the best 4K TVs now have built-in access to popular streaming services, their navigation speeds, interfaces, format support, and digital assistant capabilities vary a lot between different brands.
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