Best streaming device
Watch all your favourite streaming services in one place with our pick of the best streaming devices you can buy for your TV in 2023
Many modern TVs come with streaming services built in, but don’t underestimate the power of dedicated devices to keep your favourite apps in one place.
Not only are they compact and convenient, but these sticks are also used to transform a non-smart TV into a feature-packed smart TV, becoming a simple way of playing shows from apps such as Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, Apple TV+, Twitch, Disney+ and more.
In recent years, major tech and entertainment brands have released their own sticks, giving you plenty of options to choose from. To help make this decision easier, our expert team has pulled together our pick of the best streaming devices available in 2022.
From Amazon to Roku, in this guide you’ll find our pick of the best streaming devices that we’ve tried, tested and reviewed. Each one has also been given an award – from the best budget option to the best voice control to the best 4K video abilities.
So how much should you be spending? That really depends on the streaming quality you’re after, what design you prefer and the apps and channels you use most often. Pricing can still vary quite significantly, from the relatively inexpensive Roku Express at well under £30, to the premium Amazon Fire TV Cube costing over £100. Whatever your needs, the RadioTimes.com team has an option for you.
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If you need help choosing a subscription service in 2022, don’t miss our breakdown of the best streaming service UK, comparing the pricing and features of each major platform, including Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, BritBox and Apple TV+.
Best streaming devices at a glance
Best for design: Chromecast with Google TV, £59
Best Amazon stick: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max, £54.99
Best for performance: Amazon Fire TV Cube, £109.99
Best for audio quality: Roku Streambar, £99.99
Best for gaming: Nvidia Shield TV Pro, £178.99
Best for HD streaming: Amazon Fire TV Stick, £39.99
Best budget option: Roku Express, £24.99
Best budget 4K option: Roku Premiere, £34
Best 4K Roku stick: Roku Streaming Stick 4K, £39.14
Best for design
The Chromecast with Google TV (£59) is one of the more expensive streaming sticks, but it comes with a remote and is one of the newest, released in 2020.
There’s a dedicated Google Assistant button on the remote to activate voice control, too, whether to search the Google TV homepage or to turn the volume up. However, if you prefer, you can also control it via the Google Home app and cast from it.
When it comes to TV, it streams up to 4K HDR, so the picture quality is sharp and bright, and a huge selling point is casting to the device from your phone. The Chromecast with Google TV can also be connected to Google speakers such as the Google Nest Audio to create a fuller sound or a multi-room system. If you already own a Google device or are looking for a smooth 4K experience, this Chromecast is for you.