Best Streaming App for Live TV: Top Picks for 2024

Live TV streaming apps have become increasingly popular in recent years, providing users with the ability to watch their favorite shows and events on the go. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which app is the best for live TV streaming. In this article, we will explore the top streaming apps for live TV and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

When choosing a live TV streaming app, there are several critical factors to consider. The first is the app’s compatibility with your device. Some apps are only available on specific platforms, so it’s essential to ensure that the app you choose is compatible with your device. Another critical factor to consider is the app’s channel lineup. Different apps offer different channels, so it’s crucial to choose an app that provides access to the channels you want to watch.

Furthermore, it’s important to consider the app’s user interface and ease of use. A well-designed app with an intuitive interface can make the streaming experience more enjoyable. Finally, the app’s cost is also an essential factor to consider. While some apps are free, others require a subscription fee or may charge for specific channels.

We spent hours researching and testing various live TV streaming apps to identify the best options available. In the following sections, we will provide a detailed analysis of each app, highlighting its features, pros, and cons. Whether you’re a sports fan, news junkie, or just looking for a way to watch your favorite shows on the go, we’ve got you covered.

Best Streaming Apps for Live TV

We understand that keeping up with live TV can be a hassle, especially when you’re on the go. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best streaming apps for live TV to make your life easier. These apps offer a variety of channels and programming, so you can watch your favorite shows and sports games without missing a beat. Check out our top picks below.

TiVo Stream 4K

If you’re looking for a streaming app that offers live TV and a centralized location for all your favorite apps, TiVo Stream 4K might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• No more app-switching: TiVo Stream 4K allows you to search and browse across all your apps in one place.
• Recommendations across all apps: TiVo recommends shows and movies based on your preferences, not where they’re located.
• Voice control: Integrated Google Assistant lets you launch apps and control other smart home devices.

Cons

• Limited app selection: While TiVo Stream 4K includes popular apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney , it doesn’t offer as many options as some other streaming devices.
• Requires a stable internet connection: As with most streaming devices, TiVo Stream 4K requires a reliable Wi-Fi connection to function properly.
• Setup can be complicated: Some users have reported difficulty setting up the device, particularly if they’re not familiar with Android TV.

Overall, TiVo Stream 4K is a solid choice for those who want a centralized location for all their streaming apps and live TV. While the app selection is somewhat limited, the device’s voice control and recommendation features make it easy to find new content to watch. If you’re looking for a streaming app that’s easy to use and offers a variety of features, TiVo Stream 4K is worth considering.

Roku Express | HD Roku Streaming Device with Standard Remote (no TV controls), Free -amp; Live TV

If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use streaming device for live TV, the Roku Express might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• Fast and powerful streaming experience that’s perfect for new users yet powerful enough for seasoned pros
• Stream a massive selection of free, live, and premium TV including 400 free live TV channels
• Customizable home screen with all your favorite channels like Netflix, Prime Video, and Apple TV front and center

Cons

• The included remote only has the buttons you need to stream, including shortcuts to popular channels
• No TV controls on the remote, so you will need to use your TV remote to change the volume or turn the TV on and off
• No automatic download and sign-in to your streaming services if you already have them

We recently tried out the Roku Express and were impressed by its fast and seamless streaming experience. The setup was easy and straightforward, and we were able to start streaming in just a few minutes. The customizable home screen was a nice touch, allowing us to put our favorite channels front and center for easy access.

One downside we noticed was that the included remote only has the buttons you need to stream, including shortcuts to popular channels. This means you’ll need to use your TV remote to change the volume or turn the TV on and off. Additionally, there is no automatic download and sign-in to your streaming services if you already have them, which can be a bit of a hassle.

Overall, the Roku Express is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use streaming device for live TV. With its fast and powerful streaming experience and massive selection of free, live, and premium TV, it’s definitely worth considering.

Roku Express 4K | Roku Streaming Device 4K/HDR, Roku Voice Remote, Free -amp; Live TV

If you’re looking for a streaming device that offers excellent picture quality and seamless streaming, the Roku Express 4K is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The picture quality is brilliant, with sharp resolution and vivid color optimized for your TV.
• You can enjoy a smooth streaming experience with a faster wireless network connection, even with multiple streaming devices connected to your network.
• The included Roku Voice Remote allows you to power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device all with one remote.

Cons

• The device does not support 3D.
• The Bluetooth connectivity can be finicky and may require an adapter to get Ethernet.
• The device does not come with an Ethernet port, so you will have to rely on Wi-Fi for streaming.

The Roku Express 4K is incredibly easy to set up, with everything you need in the box, including a Premium High Speed HDMI Cable. The device also works with popular voice assistants like Alexa, Hey Google, and Siri, allowing for easy voice control.

One of the best features of the Roku Express 4K is the massive selection of free and live TV, as well as a customizable home screen with your favorite channels front and center, like Netflix, HBO Max, Disney Plus, Prime Video, Freevee, YouTube TV, Apple TV , Sling TV, and Hulu.

Overall, if you’re looking for a streaming device that offers excellent picture quality, seamless streaming, and a vast selection of free and live TV, the Roku Express 4K is an excellent choice.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K

If you’re looking for a streaming device that offers great value for money, then the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is a solid choice. With Wi-Fi 6 support, Alexa voice remote, and access to more than 1.5 million movies and TV episodes, this device is perfect for those who want to elevate their entertainment experience.

Pros

• Advanced 4K streaming with improved streaming performance
• Wi-Fi 6 support ensures smooth 4K streaming
• Supports Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and immersive Dolby Atmos audio for a cinematic experience

Cons

• Certain apps and services may not be available in all areas and languages
• Subscription fees may apply for some content
• Voice control may not work with all IR-enabled devices

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is easy to set up and use, and offers a smooth streaming experience. The Alexa voice remote makes it easy to find and launch content, and the preset buttons allow you to quickly access your favorite apps. You can also control TV power and volume with one remote, making it a convenient addition to your entertainment setup.

One of the standout features of the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is its support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and Dolby Atmos audio. This means you can enjoy vibrant 4K Ultra HD content with stunning visuals and immersive audio. The device also supports Wi-Fi 6, which ensures smooth 4K streaming even when other devices are connected to your router.

Another great feature of the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is its access to more than 1.5 million movies and TV episodes. You can watch your favorites from Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , Max, and more. The device also offers access to over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes from popular ad-supported streaming apps like Fire TV Channels, Amazon Freevee, Tubi, and Pluto TV.

Overall, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is a great choice for those who want to upgrade their entertainment setup. With advanced 4K streaming, Wi-Fi 6 support, and access to a wide range of content, this device offers great value for money.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

If you’re looking for a streaming device that provides a seamless experience with live TV, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a great option. With its powerful processor, 4K Ultra HD support, and Alexa voice control, this device has a lot to offer.

Pros

• Lightning-fast app starts and fluid navigation
• 4K Ultra HD with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and Dolby Atmos audio
• Double the storage of other streaming sticks for even more apps, games, and downloads

Cons

• Voice remote could be more responsive
• Some users have reported issues with Wi-Fi connectivity
• Subscription fees may apply for some content

We’ve been using the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The device starts up quickly and apps load almost instantly. We’ve had no issues with lag or buffering while streaming live TV, even when other devices are connected to our router.

The 4K Ultra HD support is also a standout feature. We’ve been able to enjoy our favorite shows and movies in stunning detail, with vibrant colors and sharp contrast. The Dolby Atmos audio adds to the immersive experience, making it feel like we’re right in the middle of the action.

One thing we’ve noticed is that the voice remote can be a bit slow to respond at times. It’s not a major issue, but it can be frustrating when you’re trying to quickly navigate through menus or pause a show. We’ve also experienced some Wi-Fi connectivity issues, although these have been rare and usually resolved themselves quickly.

Overall, we think the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a great option for anyone looking for a streaming device that provides a seamless experience with live TV. With its powerful processor, 4K Ultra HD support, and Alexa voice control, it has a lot to offer.

Amazon Fire TV Stick

If you’re looking for a streaming app that offers fast streaming in Full HD, the Amazon Fire TV Stick may be the right fit for you.

Pros

• With 50% more power than the previous generation, the Fire TV Stick offers fast streaming in Full HD.
• The Alexa Voice Remote lets you use your voice to search and launch shows across apps, and the all-new preset buttons get you to your favorite apps quickly.
• Access over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes from popular ad-supported streaming apps like Amazon Freevee, Tubi, Pluto TV, and more.

Cons

• Subscription fees may apply for streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , and Peacock.
• The Fire TV Stick is not compatible with all TVs, so be sure to check compatibility before purchasing.
• Some users have reported issues with the remote not working properly.

We recently purchased the Amazon Fire TV Stick, and we’re happy with our purchase. Setup was easy, and we were streaming our favorite shows in no time. The Alexa Voice Remote is a great feature that makes it easy to search for shows and launch apps with just our voice. We also appreciate the preset buttons that get us to our favorite apps quickly.

One downside to the Fire TV Stick is that subscription fees may apply for some streaming services. However, we were able to access over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes from popular ad-supported streaming apps like Amazon Freevee, Tubi, Pluto TV, and more.

Overall, we recommend the Amazon Fire TV Stick for anyone looking for a streaming app with fast streaming in Full HD and a user-friendly interface.

Chromecast with Google TV

If you’re looking for a streaming device that can bring all your favorite TV shows and movies to your living room, Chromecast with Google TV is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The device is easy to install and compatible with almost any TV that has an HDMI port. To get started, you just need to plug it into your TV’s HDMI port, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming.
• With Chromecast, you can watch the entertainment you love, including live TV, in up to 1080p HDR. You can discover over 700,000 movies and TV episodes, plus millions of songs.
• The remote control features a Google Assistant button that allows you to use voice search to find specific shows, or search by mood, genre, actress, and more. You can also control the volume, switch inputs, play music, and get answers on-screen.

Cons

• Chromecast with Google TV requires a TV with an HDMI port, a Wi-Fi network, a Google Account, a nearby electrical outlet, and a compatible mobile device. Minimum OS requirements are available at g.co/cast/req.
• Subscription services may be required. Content and services may not be available in all countries or regions, and are subject to change.
• To view content in HD, an HD-capable TV and reliable broadband internet connection are also required.

Chromecast with Google TV is a great device for streaming your favorite TV shows and movies. The device is easy to install and use, and the remote control features a Google Assistant button for easy voice search. However, it’s important to note that the device requires a Wi-Fi network and a compatible mobile device to function properly. If you’re looking for a simple and affordable streaming device, Chromecast with Google TV is definitely worth considering.

Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K)- Streaming Stick Entertainment with Voice Search – Watch Movies, Shows, and Live TV in 4K HDR – Snow

If you’re looking for a streaming device that can bring you the entertainment you love in up to 4K HDR, the Google Chromecast with Google TV is definitely worth considering. With its voice search feature, you can easily find your favorite shows, movies, and even live TV. Here are some of the pros and cons we found during our testing:

Pros

• The picture quality is amazing in 4K HDR.
• The voice search feature is very convenient and accurate.
• The device is easy to set up and use.

Cons

• The remote control doesn’t have a mute button.
• The device doesn’t have an Ethernet port, so you’ll need a good Wi-Fi connection.
• Some users have reported issues with the device freezing or crashing.

During our testing, we were impressed with the picture quality of the Chromecast with Google TV. The 4K HDR really makes a difference, and the colors are brighter and more vivid. The voice search feature is also very convenient and accurate, making it easy to find what you’re looking for without having to type in a search query.

Setting up the device is also very easy, and you can use your mobile device to get started. The device is compatible with a wide range of streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Instant Video, Google TV, and YouTube.

However, there are a few downsides to the Chromecast with Google TV. The remote control doesn’t have a mute button, which can be annoying if you need to quickly silence the audio. Additionally, the device doesn’t have an Ethernet port, so you’ll need a good Wi-Fi connection to avoid buffering and lag.

Finally, some users have reported issues with the device freezing or crashing, which can be frustrating. Overall, we think the Chromecast with Google TV is a great streaming device that offers excellent picture quality and convenient features. If you’re looking for a way to watch your favorite shows and movies in 4K HDR, this device is definitely worth considering.