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10 Best Streaming Devices 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

NVIDIA Shield Android TV Pro | 4K HDR Streaming Media Player High Performance, Dolby Vision, 3GB RAM, 2X USB, Works with Alexa, Model:945-12897-2500-101

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,499
Resolution
Content Availability
Operating System

Most important from
13036 reviews

Resolution
The AI-enhanced upscaling feature works well, though it doesn't quite match the quality of native 4K content, which the SHIELD handles flawlessly.
Content Availability
The device works flawlessly with popular streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and Disney+, providing a smooth and uninterrupted experience.
Operating System
The SHIELD TV is highly reliable and considered trustworthy for security, running a native, unmodified version of Android.
Remote Control and Voice Assistants
Setting up the NVIDIA SHIELD is a breeze, and it ties seamlessly into smart home systems like Alexa, enhancing convenience for users.
Connectivity
Users appreciate the robust connectivity options, including Ethernet, which ensures a stable streaming experience even on Wi-Fi.
Performance and Speed
The NVIDIA SHIELD offers a stable and snappy performance, making it a great viewing experience with no noticeable delays or crashes.

The NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro Streaming Media Player is a powerful and versatile device that offers a range of impressive features for both streaming and gaming enthusiasts. It supports 4K HDR resolution, providing clear and vibrant visuals, and includes Dolby Vision and Atmos for an immersive audio-visual experience. The AI-enhanced upscaling further enhances HD video quality to near 4K standards, making it a top choice for high-quality content viewing. Content availability is extensive, with access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Video, Disney+, and more in 4K HDR, as well as cloud gaming through GeForce NOW. This makes it appealing for both movie buffs and gamers alike.

The device runs on Android TV version 11 and comes with a built-in Google Assistant, offering convenient voice control and smart home integration. It also works with Alexa, adding to its flexibility. Connectivity options are robust, featuring Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet, along with two USB 3.0 ports for additional storage and peripheral support. Performance is solid with 3 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage, although some users might find the storage capacity limited if they plan to install many apps and games.

The remote control is voice-enabled, adding to the ease of use. However, the higher price point compared to other streaming devices might be a drawback for budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, while the device is highly capable, the extensive features might be overwhelming for those who just need a basic streaming solution. The NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro is best suited for users who want top-tier streaming quality, extensive content options, and additional gaming capabilities, provided they are willing to invest in a premium device.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,499
Resolution
Content Availability
Operating System

Most important from
13036 reviews

Resolution
The AI-enhanced upscaling feature works well, though it doesn't quite match the quality of native 4K content, which the SHIELD handles flawlessly.
Content Availability
The device works flawlessly with popular streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and Disney+, providing a smooth and uninterrupted experience.
Operating System
The SHIELD TV is highly reliable and considered trustworthy for security, running a native, unmodified version of Android.
Remote Control and Voice Assistants
Setting up the NVIDIA SHIELD is a breeze, and it ties seamlessly into smart home systems like Alexa, enhancing convenience for users.
Connectivity
Users appreciate the robust connectivity options, including Ethernet, which ensures a stable streaming experience even on Wi-Fi.
Performance and Speed
The NVIDIA SHIELD offers a stable and snappy performance, making it a great viewing experience with no noticeable delays or crashes.
#2

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max streaming device, with AI-powered Fire TV Search, supports Wi-Fi 6E, free & live TV without cable or satellite

Rating
9.1
Remote Control and Voice Assistants
Connectivity
Performance and Speed

Most important from
72383 reviews

Remote Control and Voice Assistants
Setup is simple and guided, making it easy to get the remote working with your TV.
Connectivity
The 4K Max model stands out with its faster performance and more consistent Wi-Fi connectivity.
Performance and Speed
The Fire TV Stick 4K Max offers snappy performance and smooth navigation through various streaming apps.

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their entertainment setup. It supports 4K Ultra HD resolution with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos audio, ensuring a top-notch viewing and listening experience. With access to over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes from popular services like Netflix and Disney+, content availability is impressive. The device runs on a powerful quad-core 2.0GHz processor, which ensures fast performance and smooth navigation.

Additionally, the 16GB storage capacity is double that of its predecessors, allowing for more apps and games to be stored directly on the device. This model also includes Wi-Fi 6E support, which can offer faster and more stable internet connections, especially in households with multiple devices. The enhanced Alexa voice remote is user-friendly and can control not just the Fire TV Stick but also other connected devices.

However, users will need a compatible 4K TV to fully utilize the high-resolution capabilities, and some services may require additional subscriptions. Also, while the device offers cloud gaming features with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Amazon Luna, these services will need a strong internet connection for the best experience. The Fire TV Stick 4K Max is ideal for users who want a high-quality, versatile streaming device with advanced features and comprehensive content options.

Rating
9.1
Remote Control and Voice Assistants
Connectivity
Performance and Speed

Most important from
72383 reviews

Remote Control and Voice Assistants
Setup is simple and guided, making it easy to get the remote working with your TV.
Connectivity
The 4K Max model stands out with its faster performance and more consistent Wi-Fi connectivity.
Performance and Speed
The Fire TV Stick 4K Max offers snappy performance and smooth navigation through various streaming apps.
#3

Google TV Streamer 4K - Fast Streaming Entertainment on Your TV with Voice Search Remote - Watch Movies, Shows, Live TV, and Netflix in 4K HDR - Smart Home Control - 32 GB of Storage - Hazel

Rating
9.1
Resolution
Operating System
Connectivity

Most important from
2530 reviews

Resolution
The streaming device delivers a fast and smooth experience with true 4K picture quality that makes watching shows and movies a pleasure.
Operating System
The Google TV interface brilliantly aggregates recommendations from multiple apps into one intuitive home screen, making content discovery quick and personalized.
Connectivity
Connectivity options include both Wi-Fi and Ethernet, ensuring a reliable streaming experience depending on the user's setup.
Remote Control
Setup is extremely easy, and the voice remote enhances navigation by making browsing effortless and adding smart features like finding the remote with sound and light.
Content Availability
The device offers access to hundreds of free live TV channels, enhancing content variety beyond paid subscriptions.
Audio Support
Unlike some competitors, the volume control shows precise numeric levels, allowing for finer tuning of audio to user preference.

The Google TV Streamer 4K is a solid choice if you want a smooth and vibrant streaming experience on your TV. It supports up to 4K HDR resolution with Dolby Vision, which means you get sharp, colorful picture quality that looks great on compatible TVs. It runs on the Google TV operating system, which combines your favorite apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video into one easy-to-navigate home screen and offers personalized recommendations based on what you watch.

Connectivity options include both Wi-Fi and Ethernet, so you can choose the most reliable connection for streaming. The included voice search remote adds convenience, letting you find shows, control smart home devices, and even locate the remote if it gets misplaced. With 32 GB of storage, there's enough space to install multiple apps without worrying about running out of room. The streaming device also supports Dolby Atmos audio for immersive sound if you have compatible speakers.

Keep in mind that you'll need to buy an HDMI 2.1 cable separately to fully enjoy the 4K HDR quality. It also offers access to over 800 free live TV channels from services like Pluto TV and Tubi, though the variety depends on your region. This Google TV Streamer is particularly well-suited for users who want easy access to many streaming services, smart home integration, and a fast, responsive device for watching movies, shows, and live TV in high quality.

Rating
9.1
Resolution
Operating System
Connectivity

Most important from
2530 reviews

Resolution
The streaming device delivers a fast and smooth experience with true 4K picture quality that makes watching shows and movies a pleasure.
Operating System
The Google TV interface brilliantly aggregates recommendations from multiple apps into one intuitive home screen, making content discovery quick and personalized.
Connectivity
Connectivity options include both Wi-Fi and Ethernet, ensuring a reliable streaming experience depending on the user's setup.
Remote Control
Setup is extremely easy, and the voice remote enhances navigation by making browsing effortless and adding smart features like finding the remote with sound and light.
Content Availability
The device offers access to hundreds of free live TV channels, enhancing content variety beyond paid subscriptions.
Audio Support
Unlike some competitors, the volume control shows precise numeric levels, allowing for finer tuning of audio to user preference.

Buying Guide for the Best Streaming Devices

Choosing the right streaming device can greatly enhance your entertainment experience. With so many options available, it's important to understand the key specifications that will impact your usage. By focusing on these specs, you can find a device that meets your needs and preferences, ensuring smooth and enjoyable streaming of your favorite content.
ResolutionResolution refers to the clarity and detail of the video output. Higher resolutions, such as 4K, provide sharper and more detailed images compared to lower resolutions like 1080p or 720p. If you have a 4K TV and want the best possible picture quality, opt for a streaming device that supports 4K resolution. For older TVs or if you are not as concerned about ultra-high definition, a device with 1080p resolution may be sufficient.
Operating SystemThe operating system (OS) of a streaming device determines the user interface and the availability of apps. Common OS options include Android TV, Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV. Each OS has its own set of features and app compatibility. If you are already invested in a particular ecosystem (e.g., Apple products), choosing a device with a compatible OS can provide a seamless experience. Consider the apps you use most frequently and ensure the OS supports them.
ConnectivityConnectivity options include Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth. Wi-Fi is essential for wireless streaming, but Ethernet can provide a more stable connection if your Wi-Fi is unreliable. Bluetooth allows you to connect peripherals like headphones or game controllers. If you have a strong Wi-Fi network, a device with Wi-Fi connectivity should suffice. For those with spotty Wi-Fi, consider a device with Ethernet support. Bluetooth is a nice-to-have feature for added convenience.
Remote ControlThe remote control is your primary way of interacting with the streaming device. Some remotes offer voice control, programmable buttons, and even touchpads. A remote with voice control can make searching for content easier and faster. If you prefer simplicity, a basic remote with essential buttons may be ideal. Consider how you like to navigate and interact with your device when choosing the type of remote control.
Content AvailabilityDifferent streaming devices offer access to various content libraries and services. Ensure the device you choose supports the streaming services you use most frequently, such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney+. Some devices may also offer exclusive content or channels. Make a list of your must-have services and check compatibility before making a decision.
Audio SupportAudio support includes features like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and surround sound capabilities. High-quality audio can significantly enhance your viewing experience, especially for movies and TV shows with rich soundtracks. If you have a home theater system or high-quality speakers, look for a device that supports advanced audio formats. For casual viewing, standard audio support may be sufficient.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity determines how much content and apps you can store on the device. While streaming devices primarily stream content, some allow you to download apps and games. If you plan to use the device for gaming or storing apps, opt for one with higher storage capacity. For basic streaming needs, lower storage capacity should be adequate.

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