When you want to enjoy the perfect streaming experience, there are a few things that come into play. First, you need a streaming service that gives you a robust lineup of channels and/or content you want to watch. Plus, you’ll also need a reliable internet connection to seamlessly stream the content.
To make this experience even more fulfilling, consider using a device that can provide high-quality streams to help you enjoy the content in vivid detail. That’s where 4K streaming devices enter the picture.
These devices allow you to enjoy compatible content in 4K resolution, which shows as 3840 x 2160 pixels on a 4K TV. This adds up to about 8.3 million pixels in total, which is four times as much as what full HD (high-definition) resolution offers. So you get extremely sharp image quality, meaning you won’t miss the tiniest details.
If this sounds good to you, we’re here to help you find the right 4K streaming device for you. In this post, we take a closer look at some of the best streaming devices with 4K so you can pick out the right one.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
For fans of Amazon, the Fire TV Stick 4K is a solid 4K streaming device. It comes with access to 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Vision support and lets you stream from all the major streaming services such as Disney Plus, Netflix, Prime Video, and more.
While you can use this with a regular high-definition TV, you need a 4K TV to stream 4K content. On top of this, you need a TV that supports minimum HDCP (high-bandwidth digital content protection) requirements.
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is also among the most affordable 4K streaming devices, typically costing $49.99. And it comes with a decent Alexa-enabled remote that allows you to control the player using voice commands. One major drawback is that the layout focuses primarily on Prime Video, so this might be a bit disruptive if you don’t use the service much.
Apple TV 4K
If you’re an Apple loyalist, however, you can also go for the Apple TV 4K. This lets you watch movies and shows in 4K HDR (high-dynamic range) and gives you impressive sound with Dolby Atmos. It works with all the major streaming services, including Apple TV Plus, HBO Max, Netflix, and Prime Video.
To use the Apple TV 4K, you need a TV with at least HD capability. But make sure you use a TV with 4K capability if you want to stream 4K content.
The Apple TV 4K is a bit pricier than other streaming devices. Even the 32GB option will set you back by $179. And the 64GB version costs a whopping $199. But if you only use Apple products, this option might still be worth the extra cash since it can seamlessly integrate with your other devices.
Chromecast with Google TV
For Android users, the newest Chromecast player is an excellent option for 4K streaming. It comes with built-in Google TV (previously Android TV), so you can now use this Chromecast as a standalone streamer, unlike the previous casting devices. Not only that, it comes with 4K resolution and Dolby Vision support, which allows you to enjoy your favorite movies and shows in vivid details.
And unlike other Chromecast devices, this new model comes with a remote as well. This remote has built-in Google Assistant support and shortcut buttons for Netflix and YouTube. To use this device, you need a TV that has an HDMI (high-definition multimedia interface) port. However, make sure you’re using a 4K TV if you want to stream content in 4K.
Chromecast with Google TV costs the same as an Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K at $49.99. So if you have to choose between the two, it’s all a matter of which interface you like more and which brand appeals to you.
Roku Premiere
If you want something that’s even more affordable than the Fire Stick and Chromecast options, you can also go for the Roku Premiere. This is one of the most cost-effective 4K streamers out there, providing a solid performance to enjoy movies and shows in 4K resolution.
You can stream from all the popular services, including Apple TV Plus, Disney Plus, Netflix, Prime Video, and Showtime. And it works with popular voice assistants like Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant.
To use the Roku Premiere, you need a TV with at least HD capability. But if you want to stream content in 4K resolution, make sure you use it with a 4K TV. The main drawback is that it only has single-band wireless, so the connectivity may not be as seamless as some of the pricier options.
On the plus side, you can get this player for just $34.99. This is a really good deal, especially considering the user-friendly Roku interface that works for both novice and avid users alike.
Roku Streaming Stick Plus
If you don’t mind paying a little extra for faster internet, consider upgrading to the Roku Streaming Stick Plus. This is one of the most robust streaming media devices that offer 4K support without costing a fortune.
The Roku Streaming Stick Plus comes with 4K HDR support, so you can get crisp and clear streaming. To make it easier to find something to watch in 4K, it comes with a 4K Spotlight channel that puts together all the titles available in 4K. And it also has a long-range wireless receiver to ensure smoother streaming even for higher-resolution content.
Plus, it comes with a robust remote that works with popular voice assistants, including Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant. So you can use voice commands to play your favorite show, switch between channels, and more. This remote even has TV controls, so you can change the volume on your TV, mute it, or even turn it on or off.
Like the Roku Premiere, you can use a regular HD TV to stream on the Roku Streaming Stick Plus. But you’ll need a 4K TV to stream content in 4K. In spite of these impressive features, the Roku Streaming Stick Plus costs the same as the Fire TV Stick 4K and the Chromecast with Google TV at $49.99.
The final cut
When it comes to 4K streaming devices, there are plenty of options for every type of viewer — from Apple loyalists to budget shoppers. So you can always find something that fits your unique needs. If you’re not looking for anything in particular, the Roku Streaming Stick Plus gets our vote as it has the perfect balance of premium features and mid-range pricing.