Best Streaming Apps for TV in 2024

Streaming TV shows and movies has become a popular way to consume entertainment in recent years. With the rise of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, people are cutting the cord and ditching cable in favor of streaming apps.

However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best streaming app for your TV. That’s why we’ve researched and tested several streaming apps to identify the ones that provide the best user experience and content selection.

When choosing a streaming app, it’s essential to consider factors such as the app’s compatibility with your TV, the available content, and the app’s user interface. A good streaming app should be easy to navigate and provide a seamless viewing experience.

After testing several streaming apps, we’ve identified the top options that stand out for their user-friendliness, content selection, and overall performance. So, whether you’re looking to binge-watch your favorite TV show or discover new movies, we’ve got you covered.

Best Streaming Apps for TV

We all love to stream our favorite TV shows and movies on our TVs, and with the increasing number of streaming apps available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best streaming apps for TV that we believe offer the best user experience, content selection, and value for your money. Whether you’re a fan of movies, TV shows, documentaries, or live sports, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into our top picks for the best streaming apps for TV.

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 4K picture quality and HDR color, then Roku Express 4K is a great option to consider. With its faster wireless performance, you can enjoy seamless streaming even when multiple devices are connected to your network. The included Roku Voice Remote makes it easy to control your streaming experience, adjust the volume, and power up your TV.

Pros

• The 4K picture quality is brilliant with sharp resolution and vivid color that’s optimized for your TV.
• With a faster wireless network connection, you can enjoy seamless streaming without any buffering or lag.
• The Roku Voice Remote makes it easy to search for entertainment, turn captions on, and control your streaming device with your voice.

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with the device overheating, especially when streaming for extended periods.
• The remote may not be as durable as expected, and some users have reported issues with the buttons not working properly.
• While the device works with popular voice assistants, some users have reported issues with the voice recognition feature.

Overall, we would recommend the Roku Express 4K for anyone looking for a streaming device that offers 4K picture quality and HDR color. With its seamless streaming experience and easy-to-use Roku Voice Remote, it’s a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy a wide selection of free and live TV channels, as well as premium TV options like Netflix, HBO Max, and Disney Plus. Setup is easy, and you’ll have everything you need in the box, including a Premium High Speed HDMI Cable. Just plug it in, connect to the internet, and start streaming!

Amazon Fire TV Stick

If you’re looking for a streaming device that offers a sharp picture quality and fast streaming, the Amazon Fire TV Stick is a great option. With access to over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes from popular streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , Peacock, and more, plus live TV, news, and sports, this device has something for everyone.

Pros

• The Alexa Voice Remote with TV controls makes it easy to navigate and search for content using your voice.
• With access to over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes from popular ad-supported streaming apps like Amazon Freevee, Tubi, Pluto TV, and more, you’ll never run out of content to watch.
• The Fire TV Stick is easy to set up and use. Simply plug it in behind your TV, turn on the TV, and connect to the internet to get started.

Cons

• Subscription fees may apply for some content, so be aware of the costs before purchasing.
• While the device is compatible with most TVs, some older models may not be supported.
• The included remote requires batteries, which will need to be replaced periodically.

Overall, the Amazon Fire TV Stick is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their streaming experience. With its user-friendly interface, vast selection of content, and affordable price point, this device is a great addition to any home entertainment setup.

All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device

If you’re looking for a streaming device that delivers an exceptional viewing experience, the all-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is a great option. With its advanced 4K streaming capabilities, Wi-Fi 6 support, and access to over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes, this device is perfect for anyone who wants to elevate their entertainment.

Pros

• The device offers improved streaming performance with advanced 4K streaming capabilities.
• Wi-Fi 6 support ensures smooth 4K streaming even when other devices are connected to your router.
• The device supports Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and immersive Dolby Atmos audio, providing a cinematic experience.

Cons

• While the device offers access to over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes from popular ad-supported streaming apps, subscription fees may apply for some of the content.
• Certain apps and services are subject to change or withdrawal at any time and may not be available in all areas and languages.
• The device is not compatible with all TVs and may require a TV that supports minimum HDCP requirements for protected content playback.

We’ve had the chance to use the all-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device, and we’re impressed with its performance. The device is easy to set up and use, and the Alexa Voice Remote allows you to quickly find, launch, and control content with your voice.

One of the standout features of the device is its support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and Dolby Atmos audio, which provide a truly immersive viewing experience. The device also offers access to over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes, ensuring that you’ll never run out of things to watch.

While the device offers access to over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes from popular ad-supported streaming apps, some of the content may require a subscription fee. Additionally, certain apps and services are subject to change or withdrawal at any time and may not be available in all areas and languages.

Overall, the all-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device is a great option for anyone who wants to elevate their entertainment experience. With its advanced 4K streaming capabilities, Wi-Fi 6 support, and access to over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes, it’s definitely worth considering.

Roku Express | Easy High Definition (HD) Streaming Media Player (2018)

If you’re looking for an affordable streaming device that delivers a smooth HD streaming experience, the Roku Express is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Simple setup with an included High speed HDMI cable
• Easy-to-use remote, intuitive navigation
• 500,000 movies and TV episodes, with voice search across 1,000 top channels. Plus, catch hit movies, popular shows and more with no subscription or fees on the Roku channel

Cons

• No 4K support
• No Ethernet port
• Remote control uses IR and requires a direct line of sight to the device

We were impressed with how easy it was to set up the Roku Express. Simply plug it into your TV with the included HDMI cable, connect to the internet, and start streaming. The remote is straightforward and easy to use, and we appreciated the voice search feature that allowed us to quickly find our favorite shows. We were also pleased to discover that the Roku channel offers a wide selection of movies and TV shows that can be watched for free, without the need for a subscription.

However, we were disappointed to learn that the Roku Express doesn’t support 4K resolution, which may be a dealbreaker for some users. Additionally, the lack of an Ethernet port means that you’ll need a strong Wi-Fi signal to get the best streaming experience. Finally, the remote control uses IR and requires a direct line of sight to the device, which can be frustrating if you’re used to more advanced remote controls.

Overall, we think the Roku Express is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable streaming device that delivers a smooth and intuitive user experience. However, if you’re looking for 4K support or a more advanced remote control, you may want to consider other options.

Dcolor Android TV Stick

If you’re looking for a streaming device for your TV, the Dcolor Android TV Stick is a great choice.

Pros

• Google and Netflix Certified
• Chromecast Built-In
• Ultra 4K HDR with Dolby Audio

Cons

• No Ethernet port
• Remote control is not backlit
• Only 16GB storage

We were impressed with the Dcolor Android TV Stick’s Google and Netflix certifications, which means you’ll have access to a wide variety of movies and shows from across your favorite apps. The Chromecast Built-In feature makes it easy to stream the entertainment you love from your phone, tablet or laptop to your TV. The ultra 4K HDR with Dolby Audio provides an immersive viewing experience.

One downside is that the device does not have an Ethernet port, so you’ll need a strong Wi-Fi connection for smooth streaming. Additionally, the remote control is not backlit, which can be inconvenient in low-light situations. Finally, the device only has 16GB of storage, which may not be enough for heavy app users.

Overall, the Dcolor Android TV Stick is a solid choice for those looking for a streaming device for their TV. Its Google and Netflix certifications, Chromecast Built-In feature, and ultra 4K HDR with Dolby Audio make it a great option.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K

If you’re looking for a streaming device that delivers 4K and HDR content, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a great option.

Pros

• Setting up the device is easy, and it plugs right into your TV with a simple setup.
• The long-range Wi-Fi allows for fast, smooth streaming in any room with a strong Wi-Fi connection.
• The included push-to-talk voice remote makes it easy to control your entertainment with just your voice.

Cons

• The device can get hot after prolonged use.
• The remote doesn’t have a headphone jack for private listening.
• The remote doesn’t have a mute button.

We recently purchased the Roku Streaming Stick 4K and have been impressed with its performance. The device is easy to set up and use, and the picture quality is stunning. We love that we can stream our favorite channels like Netflix, Prime Video, and more in a snap. The customizable home screen puts our favorite channels front and center, making it easy to find the content we want to watch.

One of the standout features of the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is the included push-to-talk voice remote. We love being able to search for and control our entertainment with just our voice. The remote is easy to use and feels comfortable in our hand.

However, we did notice that the device can get hot after prolonged use. We also wish that the remote had a headphone jack for private listening and a mute button.

Overall, if you’re looking for a streaming device that delivers 4K and HDR content, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a great option. Its easy setup, long-range Wi-Fi, and push-to-talk voice remote make it a convenient and powerful streaming device.

EDUP Wireless HDMI Transmitter and Receiver

If you’re looking for a wireless HDMI extender kit that is easy to use and offers a stable screen mirroring function, then the EDUP Wireless HDMI Transmitter and Receiver is worth considering.

Pros

• The EDUP Wireless HDMI kit is plug-and-play, so no apps, Bluetooth, WiFi, or drivers are required to use it.
• The screen mirroring function is stable and has a low latency of only 0.1s, ensuring you can enjoy a smooth experience.
• The kit supports mirroring to a big screen with 1080p resolution, allowing you to cast featured apps such as Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , and Apple TV.

Cons

• The resolution is limited to 720p and 1080p, so it may not be suitable for those who need higher resolutions.
• The kit only supports a maximum of 8 transmitters paired with 1 receiver, and it doesn’t support multiple receivers.
• The wireless transmission range is up to 165ft/50m, but it will be shortened to 32ft/10m if there are walls or floors in between.

We found the EDUP Wireless HDMI Transmitter and Receiver to be a reliable and easy-to-use kit. The plug-and-play feature made it simple to set up, and we were able to pair the transmitter and receiver right out of the box. The screen mirroring function worked well, and we experienced no lag or delay during our testing. However, we did notice that the resolution was limited to 720p and 1080p, which may not be suitable for those who need higher resolutions.

The EDUP Wireless HDMI kit is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for outdoor business presentations. It is compatible with most HDMI output devices, including laptops, desktop computers, Blu-ray players, cameras, DVD players, DSLR cameras, set-top boxes, cable/satellite boxes, tablets, and more. The kit is suitable for conference rooms, home entertainment, and multimedia education.

Overall, we recommend the EDUP Wireless HDMI Transmitter and Receiver for those who need a reliable and easy-to-use wireless HDMI extender kit. With a 3-year manufacturer replacement warranty and 45 days no questions asked return policy, you can purchase with confidence.

TiVo Stream 4K

If you’re looking for a streaming device that can handle all your favorite streaming services in one place, TiVo Stream 4K is a great option.

Pros

• No more app-switching: TiVo Stream 4K enables one centralized place for searching, browsing, and creating watch lists across all your apps.
• Recommendations across all of your apps: TiVo recommends your next favorite shows and movies based on what you love, not where they live.
• Say it and watch it: The power of voice control makes it easy to find shows. Integrated Google Assistant allows you to launch apps, dim the lights and more.

Cons

• Limited storage: The device has limited storage and doesn’t support external storage.
• No Ethernet port: TiVo Stream 4K only supports Wi-Fi connectivity, so you may experience buffering or connection issues if your internet connection is not strong enough.
• Some users may find the interface too cluttered.

TiVo Stream 4K is a great streaming device that can handle all your favorite streaming services in one place. With voice control and personalized recommendations, it’s easy to find your next favorite show or movie. However, the device has limited storage and doesn’t support external storage, and some users may find the interface too cluttered. If you’re looking for a streaming device that can handle all your favorite streaming services in one place, TiVo Stream 4K is definitely worth considering.

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

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly streaming device with a simple setup, the Roku Express is a solid choice.

Pros

• The Roku Express is easy to set up and use, even for those who are not tech-savvy.
• The customizable home screen makes it easy to access all your favorite channels.
• With over 400 free live TV channels, you’ll never run out of things to watch.

Cons

• The included remote does not have TV controls, so you’ll need to use a separate remote to adjust the volume or turn off your TV.
• While the Roku Express supports 1080p resolution, it does not support 4K.
• The device can get warm during use.

We’ve been using the Roku Express for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with how easy it is to use. The setup process is straightforward – simply plug the device into your TV and connect to the internet. The home screen is customizable, so you can put your favorite channels front and center. We appreciate the variety of free live TV channels available, which include news, sports, and entertainment.

The included remote is simple and easy to use, but it lacks TV controls. This means that you’ll need to use a separate remote to adjust the volume or turn off your TV. While the Roku Express supports 1080p resolution, it does not support 4K, so it may not be the best choice if you have a 4K TV. We also noticed that the device can get warm during use, but this is not a major issue.

Overall, we recommend the Roku Express for those who want a simple and affordable streaming device. It’s perfect for those who are new to streaming and want an easy-to-use device that won’t break the bank.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

If you’re looking for a fast and reliable streaming device that supports 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Atmos audio, then the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is worth considering.

Pros

• Lightning-fast processor for quick app starts and smooth navigation
• Supports 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Atmos audio for an immersive viewing experience
• Comes with an upgraded remote that includes voice control, a recents button, and dedicated channel buttons to surf live TV

Cons

• Requires a high-speed internet connection for optimal performance
• Some apps and services may require separate subscriptions
• Voice control may not work with all IR-enabled devices

From the moment we unboxed the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max, we were impressed with its sleek design and easy setup. The device connected seamlessly to our Wi-Fi network, and we were able to start streaming our favorite shows and movies in 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Atmos audio.

One of the standout features of the Fire TV Stick 4K Max is its lightning-fast processor, which makes navigating through apps and menus a breeze. We were able to switch between apps and start streaming content with minimal lag or buffering.

Another great feature of the Fire TV Stick 4K Max is its upgraded remote, which includes voice control, a recents button, and dedicated channel buttons to surf live TV. We found the voice control to be particularly useful, as we were able to search for content and control our TV and connected devices with just our voice.

While the Fire TV Stick 4K Max offers a great streaming experience, it does require a high-speed internet connection for optimal performance. We also found that some apps and services may require separate subscriptions, which can add up if you’re looking to access a wide range of content.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fast and reliable streaming device that supports 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Atmos audio, then the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is definitely worth considering.