The 10 Best Streaming Devices in the UK Compared For 2023

The best streaming device for your home can make or break your entertainment experience. It’s not just about having access to the latest movies and shows – you should also look for an easy-to-use interface, a reliable connection, and great features like voice control and 4K support.

We’ve done the research for you and narrowed the selection down to 10 of the best streaming devices for TV available right now. From the Roku TV Stick+ to the Fire TV Stick With Alexa, learn what each streaming device offers and which is right for you. We’ll also compare the pros and cons of these devices against other models so that you can make an informed decision. Read on to find out the best TV streaming device for your home.

The Top 10 Best Products for Streaming Media

These devices were carefully selected based on their features, price-quality ratio, customer ratings and reviews, and compatibility with streaming services. As far as the overall features and value for money, the Roku Stick+ is the clear winner here:

1. Roku Stick+ — The best product overall, offering incredible streaming quality and endless entertainment options, from 4K to HDRs, plus voice control.
2. Fire TV Stick With Alexa — Best TV box choice for Alexa users, providing the convenience of hands-free access to movies and shows with just your voice.
3. Apple TV 4K (4th Gen) — Perfect for Apple purists, this product offers stunning visuals along with plenty of apps to explore.
4. Roku Express — The most affordable streaming device on the market, offering up to 1080p HD streaming and quick setup in a small package.
5. Google Chromecast — Stream from your phone or tablet directly to your TV with Chromecast with Google TV’s easy-to-use interface and powerful streaming capabilities.
6. Roku Ultra — Ideal for late-night streamers who want uninterrupted, lag-free viewing thanks to the device’s quad-core processor and dual-band wireless connection.
7. Nvidia Shield Android TV Pro — The ultimate solution when it comes to gaming and media streaming. Can grant access to thousands of games, videos, and more.
8. Roku Streambar — Enjoy cinema-quality audio and video with this combined stick and soundbar. Perfect for watching all your favorite films in style.
9. Chromecast with Google TV (4K) — Best For 4K technology lovers looking for an immersive viewing experience at a great price point.
10. Fire TV Cube — Get hands-free access to movies and shows with Alexa’s voice controls. Ideal for those who want a seamless entertainment experience at home.

Reviews of the Best TV Streaming Devices

The streaming device market is projected to be an $89 billion dollar industry by 2026, so it’s no surprise that the demand for TV streaming devices has increased exponentially. Here’s an in-depth look at the best TV streaming devices available in the UK.

1. Roku Stick+ — The Best Overall Streaming Device

The Roku Stick+ is a great streaming device that offers the best overall experience for UK users. This miniature device is packed with features, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to get the most out of their streaming experience.

The advanced wireless receiver allows you to stream from up to 4x the range of other streaming devices. This makes it perfect for people who have large homes and need a device that can keep up with their streaming needs.

To use the device, you must register your Roku account and connect it to your TV. This can be a complicated process for some users, but once you have it set up properly, you can enjoy a smooth streaming experience.

You can also enjoy 500 plus movies from the Roku Channel, access your subscribed streaming services, and voice search with the Roku Stick+. This makes it a great choice for people who want the convenience of having access to their favourite shows at their fingertips.

For ‎£66.00, the Roku Stick+ provides a value-packed streaming device with excellent features for any UK user. Compared to other streaming sticks like the Now TV smart stick, it’s versatile and convenient to use.

2. Fire TV Stick with Alexa — Convenient Hands-Free Streaming

This Amazon 4K Fire Stick with Alexa makes it easy to stream your favourite content and can enhance your streaming experience with a wide range of entertainment options and features tailored to your preferences.

With the press of a button, you can activate voice controls and ask Alexa to find, launch and control the content or switch to cable, so you can easily enjoy a wide range of shows and movies. Its intuitive interface lets you quickly access all the best streaming apps, such as Netflix and Disney+ – and given the extensive support, it’s hard to name the best app for Firestick.

The Fire TV Stick makes streaming a breeze. With its easy setup and straightforward operation, you can quickly access and play a movie or show without any hassle. This device is perfect for anyone looking for a convenient way to cut the cord and stream TV content on the go. If you’re wondering what’s out there, check out Kodi, one of the best Firestick apps available.

The Fire TV Stick also offers a great combination of features and affordability compared to other streaming TV devices in the UK. The only downside may be that the remote uses a lot of power, so you may need to replace the batteries fairly often.

The Fire Smart TV stick is an excellent option for those looking to stream their favourite content quickly and easily. For the price of £44.99, it’s one of the cheapest and most feature-packed streaming devices in the UK.

3. Apple TV 4K (4th Gen) — Stunning Visuals for Apple Purists

For Apple purists who want to enjoy stunning visuals from the comfort of their own homes and convert their living room into a home theatre, the Apple TV 4K (4th Gen) certainly does the job.

This device provides users with access to 4K HDR content, Dolby Atmos sound, and an A10X Fusion chip, ensuring smooth streaming performance.

The user-friendly interface makes it easy to find movies, shows, and sports through apps like Netflix and ESPN. With AirPlay 2 integration, you can even stream content directly from your iPhone or iPad.

Apple TV 4K also works as a smart home hub, allowing users to control their HomeKit-enabled devices with the simple click of a button. With this device, you can access the huge library of content on Apple TV+ and rent or buy movies and shows from iTunes. However, the UK app store offers a slightly smaller selection than the US app store.

Overall, the Apple TV 4K (4th Gen) will prove impressive to Apple enthusiasts who want to enjoy stunning visuals and immersive sound in their own homes. Priced at £149.00, it is an investment – but one arguably worth making.

4. Roku Express — Affordable HD Streaming in a Compact Package

The Roku Express gives you access to an impressive selection of streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube for an affordable price.

With a High-Speed HDMI® Cable and simple remote included, you only pay for what you want with no monthly equipment fee or contracts. It also has an unbiased search feature that makes it easy to find entertainment for free or at the lowest cost.

Unlike others, it does not require an expensive subscription plan and gives users direct access to popular streaming services like Netflix, and YouTube. Plus, its compact size allows it to fit into any entertainment center.

With tons of power-packed features, you can enjoy a seamless streaming experience across free and paid channels such as Prime Video and All 4.

As with any device, there are a couple of downsides. The interface can feel suboptimal at times, and there are limited voice control options.

For £34.99, the Roku Express is one of the best budget TV streaming devices and gives you access to the entertainment you love without breaking the bank.

5. Google Chromecast — Easy-to-Use Streaming from Phone or Tablet

The Google Chromecast is one of the more well-known streaming devices in the UK. It’s an easy-to-use device that can stream content from your phone or tablet to your TV.

With one home screen that clearly lists films and TV shows from across your services, it makes finding and watching what you want easier than ever.

To make life even simpler, you can control everything with just a few taps on your phone or tablet. What’s more, this streaming device also offers access to hundreds of apps like YouTube and Netflix, so you can watch whatever content you love in high quality. Plus, its low price tag means that anyone can enjoy endless entertainment without going over budget.

However, the Chromecast is made for h264 encoded video – so for power users, it does have its limitations. This means that those wanting to watch or stream more advanced content may need to look elsewhere.

For its price and ease of use, the Google Chromecast is a great streaming device for the UK market. Priced at £49.00, it’s a great way to access high-quality streaming content at a low price.

6. Roku Ultra — Lag-Free Streaming for Night Owls

The Roku Ultra’s remote offers a 3mm headphone jack for private listening, and the device itself is designed to remain lag-free even when streaming in HD.

It’s a powerful dual-band Wi-Fi streaming device that offers the option of connecting via an Ethernet port for those who prefer a wired connection.

The device boasts Dolby Vision streaming and has been upgraded to support HDR10+ in its 2022 version. Additionally, it features a headphone jack for private listening, as well as surprisingly nice headphones.

With its larger size, it should be tucked under the TV instead of plugged in the back, though this opens up a few advantages not found on behind-the-TV streaming sticks.

With a button located on the device, you can activate its remote finder function which chirps so you can find it even if it falls under the couch.

Priced at £168.93, it may seem that the Roku Ultra is a bit more expensive than other streaming devices, but it’s worth every penny. Its lag-free performance ensures you’ll never miss another moment from your shows, and its 3mm headphone jack allows for private listening without disturbing anyone else in the house.

The remote also makes it easy to access all of your favourite services quickly so you can start watching right away.

7. Nvidia Shield Android TV Pro — Gaming and Media Streaming Powerhouse

The Nvidia Shield Android TV Pro, regarded as perhaps the best Android box, seamlessly merges the capabilities of a gaming console and media box.

What makes the Nvidia Shield Android TV Pro stand out from its competitors is its GeForce NOW Cloud Gaming. With it, you can instantly turn your TV into a powerful gaming rig with access to over 1,000 titles and nearly 100 of the biggest free-to-play games. At the same time, this powerful streaming device is loved by movie enthusiasts and TV fanatics for its exceptional performance and versatility.

The new GeForce NOW RTX 3080 membership unlocks GeForce RTX 3080 gaming servers in 4K HDR with ray tracing and DLSS graphics for supported games. This would appeal to gamers who want to experience next-gen graphical performance without having to invest separately in a gaming PC or console.

And the Nvidia Shield doesn’t limit itself to just being a great gaming device but also offers an all-in-one media streaming experience. You can watch movies and shows and listen to music, among other things. It also has easy access to apps such as Netflix, YouTube, Spotify and more. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate around the device and find what you’re looking for quickly.

Despite being the most expensive device on our list, the Nvidia Shield Android TV Pro is worth it for those who want a powerful gaming and media streaming box. It offers great performance and an unbeatable selection of apps, games, and content. And if you’re a serious gamer, this device pairs perfectly with the best gaming TVs in the market.

8. Roku Streambar — Cinema-Quality Audio and Video in One Device

The Roku Streambar is a soundbar and streaming device combined into one, making for an excellent clutter-free home theatre setup. It provides a premium 4K Ultra HD picture and incredible sound quality, letting you enjoy content with cinematic-quality audio and video.

The Streambar is 14 inches long, making it ideal for smaller TV players and setups, while the Pro model is 32 inches long with four 2.5-inch full-range drivers – twice as many as the Streambar’s 1.9-inch drivers. Both feature Night Listening Mode which reduces loud sounds to prevent you from disturbing your family’s sleep.

In addition to their great sound quality, the Streambar Pro delivers 4K UHD pictures with HDR10 content as long as you’re connected to your home network. It also supports Dolby Audio for a truly immersive experience.

You can easily access over 500,000 streaming channels, including free-to-air broadcast services such as BBC iPlayer and All4, plus subscription services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+. The Streambar is also compatible with the Alexa voice remote, so you can control your device using voice commands.

For the price of ‎£149.00, this is expensive compared to others on our list. However, if you consider its value as a soundbar and streaming device combined, then it is worth the price. The Roku Streambar will complete your home entertainment experience with its cinema-quality audio and video.

9. Chromecast with Google TV (4K) — Immersive Viewing Experience at a Great Price

The Chromecast 4K with Google TV is an upgrade to the classic Chromecast device, offering an immersive viewing experience at a great price. With a 4K resolution, HDR 10 & Dolby Vision support, you can get the most out of your TV.

The remote control also comes with voice search and dedicated Netflix/YouTube buttons, so you can easily switch between streaming services without needing to open up multiple apps.

However, despite this upgrade, Google still forgot to add an ethernet port for a wired internet connection, which is an important feature for gamers and those looking to stream 4K content without interruption.

All in all, this Chromecast device is an excellent choice if you’re on the lookout for a budget-friendly streaming device that will provide top-quality visuals and features. For only £57.95, you’re getting one of the best 4K streaming devices, great value for money, and an immersive viewing experience that won’t let you down.

10. Fire TV Cube — Seamless Entertainment with Alexa Voice Control

The Fire TV Cube is last on our list of the best streaming devices in the UK, but it’s certainly not the least in terms of value. It offers a truly seamless entertainment experience with Alexa voice control and speakers.

The Fire TV Cube is the most advanced streaming device from Amazon. It also has a few advantages over the cheaper Fire TV Stick 4K, such as its far-field microphones, which make it easier to interact with Alexa without needing to grab the remote.

The Cube is effectively a great combination of an Echo speaker and a Fire TV Stick 4K in one. You can also get Alexa visual information on your television screen while using another set-top box or game console. The device supports Wi-Fi 6E – which is great considering that anything beyond 5G is sufficient for viewing 4K HDR content.

This device is best suited for users who are already invested in Amazon’s ecosystem. However, it’s also a great starting point for those wanting to get hands-free with their home theatre and begin using smart home devices. Apple and Google don’t offer media streamers with the far-field microphone feature, although some televisions with the Google TV platform have this capability.

For £139.99, the Fire TV Cube is a great choice for those who have an Amazon-dependent media system and want to get hands-free with their home theatre. It’s one of the most promising and best Android TV boxes ever made.

The Top Streaming TV Products Compared

For streaming, Smart TVs are still the most popular option in the UK, but if you’re looking for a more versatile streaming TV product, then the top options include Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, and Google Chromecast. The benefit? These devices are much cheaper than a Smart TV and offer access to all the major streaming services, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV+.

Now check out this head-to-head comparison of the top streaming TV products. This will give you a better and simpler understanding of which device is best for your needs:

Factors to Consider When Buying a TV Device for Streaming

When it comes to purchasing a TV device for streaming, there are several important factors to consider. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision and ensure that the device you choose meets your specific needs and preferences.

Budget

One of the primary factors to consider when buying a TV device for streaming is your budget. The streaming device market is an $28 billion dollar industry, and there are TV devices for streaming come available in a wide range of prices – so it’s essential to determine how much you are willing to spend. Setting a budget will help narrow down your options and ensure that you choose a device that offers the best value for your money.

Special Features

TV devices for streaming often come with various special features that enhance your streaming experience. One such feature is voice control, which allows you to navigate through apps and content using voice commands. Other special features may include compatibility with virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, the ability to stream content in 4K or HDR, and support for gaming.

Content Offered

While Netflix still dominates the streaming market, other services, such as Amazon Prime Video and Disney+, are gaining ground. It’s important to research which apps are available on the device you’re considering. This will ensure that you can access all the content you’re interested in without needing to purchase additional equipment or subscriptions.

Box Over Stick

When choosing a TV device for streaming, you will also need to decide between a set-top box or a streaming stick. Set-top boxes, such as Apple TV and Roku Ultra, are separate devices that connect to your TV. Streaming sticks, like Amazon Fire TV Stick and Google Chromecast, plug directly into your TV’s HDMI port. Factors to consider include portability, power and processing capabilities, and available features.

Streaming Device FAQs

Nick Saraev

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Nick Saraev

A programmer by trade, Nick is a freelance writer and entrepreneur with a penchant for helping people achieve their business goals. He's been featured on Popular Mechanics & Apple News, and has founded several successful companies in e-commerce, marketing, and artificial intelligence. When he's not working on his latest project, you can find him hiking or painting.

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