Best Streaming TV Apps of 2024

Streaming TV apps have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more people cut the cord with cable companies and move towards streaming services. These apps offer a convenient way to access a wide range of TV shows and movies, often at a lower cost than traditional cable packages. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best streaming TV apps available on the market today.

When looking for the best streaming TV app, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that the app offers a wide range of content, including both popular TV shows and movies, as well as more niche offerings. You’ll also want to consider factors like pricing, ease of use, and compatibility with your devices.

After extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the top streaming TV apps on the market today. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a more premium service with a wider range of content, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best streaming TV apps.

Best Streaming TV Apps

We all love streaming TV shows and movies, but with so many apps available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best streaming TV apps on the market. Our team has tested and reviewed each app to provide you with the most reliable and high-quality options. Whether you’re looking for the latest releases or classic favorites, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below and start streaming today!

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

If you’re looking for a reliable streaming device that offers excellent picture quality and a vast selection of free and live TV channels, then the Roku Express 4K is a great option.

Pros

• The device provides brilliant 4K picture quality with sharp resolution and vivid HDR color optimized for your TV.
• Enjoy a smooth streaming experience with faster wireless performance, 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 streaming device all with one remote.

Cons

• The device may occasionally experience buffering issues, depending on your network connection.
• The voice search feature may not always recognize specific commands or names accurately.
• The device does not support Bluetooth connectivity for headphones or speakers.

We recently purchased the Roku Express 4K for our living room TV, and we’re impressed with its performance. The setup was straightforward, and we were able to start streaming in minutes. The picture quality is fantastic, and we noticed a significant improvement in the sharpness and color compared to our previous streaming device.

One of the best features of the Roku Express 4K is the vast selection of free and live TV channels available. We were pleasantly surprised to discover a variety of channels we didn’t even know existed, and we’re enjoying exploring new content.

The Roku Voice Remote is also a game-changer, allowing us to control our TV and streaming device with just one remote. The voice search feature is handy, although it can be hit or miss at times. We’ve experienced a few instances where the device didn’t recognize our commands accurately, but it’s a minor inconvenience.

Overall, we highly recommend the Roku Express 4K for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable streaming device with excellent picture quality and a vast selection of free and live TV channels.

Amazon Fire TV Stick

If you’re looking for a streaming TV app that can deliver a fast and sharp picture quality, Amazon Fire TV Stick is a great choice. It comes with an Alexa Voice Remote that allows you to control your TV and soundbar with a single remote. Here are the pros and cons of the Amazon Fire TV Stick:

Pros

• The Amazon Fire TV Stick is 50% more powerful than the previous generation, which means you can enjoy fast streaming in Full HD.
• With over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes to choose from, you’ll never run out of things to watch. You can stream from popular services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , Peacock, and more.
• The Amazon Fire TV Stick comes with a 6-month subscription to MGM which gives you access to thousands of Hollywood movies and Original series.

Cons

• The Amazon Fire TV Stick is not compatible with all TVs, so you’ll need to check if your TV has an HDMI input.
• Some users have reported issues with the remote not responding or losing connection.
• The Amazon Fire TV Stick requires a stable internet connection to work properly, so if your internet is slow or unreliable, you may experience buffering or other issues.

Overall, we highly recommend the Amazon Fire TV Stick for its sharp picture quality, fast streaming, and easy-to-use Alexa Voice Remote. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a wide range of movies and TV shows from popular streaming services.

TiVo Stream 4K

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

Pros

• No more app-switching: TiVo Stream 4K allows you to search, browse, and create watch lists across all your apps in one centralized place.
• Recommendations across all apps: TiVo recommends your next favorite shows and movies based on your preferences, not where they live.
• Voice control: Integrated Google Assistant allows you to launch apps, dim the lights, and more with ease.

Cons

• Limited app selection: While TiVo Stream 4K includes popular streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , and Peacock, it doesn’t have as many options as some other devices.
• No Ethernet port: TiVo Stream 4K only supports Wi-Fi connectivity, which may not be ideal for users with weaker Wi-Fi signals.
• Some users report occasional glitches: A few users have reported issues with the device freezing or crashing, although this seems to be rare.

Overall, TiVo Stream 4K is a solid choice for anyone looking to streamline their streaming experience. With voice control, personalized recommendations, and a centralized search function, it’s easy to find and watch your favorite shows and movies. However, the limited app selection and occasional glitches may be a turn-off for some users.

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 that’s easy to set up and use, the Roku Express is a great option.

Pros

• Fast and powerful streaming experience
• Customizable home screen with easy access to popular channels
• Works with popular voice assistants

Cons

• Limited to 1080p resolution
• Remote doesn’t have TV controls
• No power button on the device

Setting up the Roku Express was a breeze – we simply plugged it into our TV and connected to the internet. The home screen was easy to navigate, and we were able to customize it with our favorite channels. We also appreciated the included remote, which had all the necessary buttons for streaming and even had shortcuts to popular channels.

We were impressed with the streaming quality – the Roku Express delivered a seamless HD experience with no buffering or lag. We were able to access a huge selection of free, live, and premium TV, including popular channels like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney . The Roku mobile app was also a convenient addition, allowing us to use our phone as a second remote and even listen to the TV with wireless headphones.

One downside of the Roku Express is that it’s limited to 1080p resolution, so if you’re looking for 4K streaming, you’ll need to upgrade to a different Roku device. Additionally, the remote doesn’t have TV controls, so you’ll need to use your TV remote to adjust the volume and turn the TV on and off. Finally, there’s no power button on the device, so it’s always on unless you unplug it.

Overall, we think the Roku Express is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use streaming device.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K

If you’re looking for a powerful streaming device with a sleek design, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a great choice.

Pros

• The stick design makes it easy to install and hides behind your TV.
• The long-range Wi-Fi receiver ensures fast and smooth streaming.
• The voice remote allows for easy control and search.

Cons

• The device may experience occasional glitches and freezes.
• The voice control feature may not always work as expected.
• Some users may find the interface to be cluttered and difficult to navigate.

We’ve had a great experience using the Roku Streaming Stick 4K. The stick design is convenient and easy to install, and the device is powerful enough to handle all of our streaming needs. We’ve been able to stream our favorite channels like Netflix and Prime Video with lightning-fast startup times.

The long-range Wi-Fi receiver has also been a game-changer, allowing us to enjoy smooth streaming in any room with a strong Wi-Fi connection. And the voice remote has been a convenient feature, allowing us to quickly search, play entertainment, and control our streaming device with ease.

However, we have experienced occasional glitches and freezes while using the device, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the voice control feature may not always work as expected, which can be a minor inconvenience. Some users may also find the interface to be cluttered and difficult to navigate.

Overall, we highly recommend the Roku Streaming Stick 4K for anyone looking for a powerful and convenient streaming device.

Roku Express

Looking for an affordable streaming device that delivers HD streaming? Then, the Roku Express is a great option for you.

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 or HDR support
• No Ethernet port
• No Dolby Atmos support

We recently tried the Roku Express and were impressed with its performance. The setup was a breeze, and we were up and running in no time. The device comes with an included high-speed HDMI cable, making it easy to connect to your TV. The remote is user-friendly with intuitive navigation, and the voice search feature is a great addition that allows you to search for your favorite shows and channels with ease.

The Roku Express offers access to 500,000 movies and TV episodes, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, HBO NOW, and SHOWTIME, as well as live sports and news on CBS News, ABC News, and ESPN. The Roku Channel also offers a selection of hit movies and popular shows for free, with no subscription or fees required.

While the Roku Express doesn’t support 4K or HDR, it delivers smooth HD streaming up to 1080p. The device also lacks an Ethernet port, meaning you’ll need a stable Wi-Fi connection for optimal performance. Additionally, the Roku Express doesn’t support Dolby Atmos, which may be a deal-breaker for audiophiles.

Overall, the Roku Express is a great option for those looking for an affordable streaming device that delivers HD streaming and access to a wide range of streaming services.

Dcolor Android TV Stick

We highly recommend the Dcolor Android TV Stick for anyone looking for an affordable and efficient streaming device that can deliver high-quality video and audio content.

Pros

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

Cons

• Remote control can be unresponsive at times
• Limited storage space
• No Ethernet port

The Dcolor Android TV Stick is a Google and Netflix Certified streaming device that offers access to more than 400,000 movies and shows from all your favorite apps. With Google Play, you can get access to over 7000 apps, including games, music, and more. Unlike the Fire TV Stick, this device does not have any advertisements, so you can enjoy uninterrupted streaming.

One of the best features of the Dcolor Android TV Stick is the Google Chromecast Built-In, which allows you to stream content from your phone, tablet, or laptop directly to your TV. This is a feature that is not available on the Fire TV Stick or Roku TV, making the Dcolor stick the best choice for those who want to cast content from their mobile devices.

The Dcolor Android TV Stick supports Ultra 4K HDR with Dolby Audio, which means you can watch your favorite shows and movies in stunning picture quality and immersive audio. You can watch Netflix, Amazon Video, Apple TV , Disney , YouTube, Hulu, and more in 4K HDR.

Setting up the Dcolor Android TV Stick is easy, and it is compatible with almost any TV that has an HDMI port. You just need to plug it into your TV’s HDMI port, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming. The device can be charged with the TV USB port, and it can be hidden behind your TV, making things neat and simple.

The Dcolor Android TV Stick has 16GB of storage space, which is enough to install any apps you want. The device has 2GB of RAM and 16GB of ROM storage, so you can enjoy super-fast running speeds. The device also has a bookmark feature that provides personal suggestions based on your subscriptions, viewing habits, and content that you own.

Overall, the Dcolor Android TV Stick is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable and efficient streaming device. With its Google and Netflix certification, Google Chromecast Built-In, and Ultra 4K HDR with Dolby Audio, you can enjoy high-quality video and audio content. The limited storage space and unresponsive remote control are minor drawbacks, but they do not detract from the overall performance of the device.

Roku Express 4K Pro with Voice Remote Pro – Roku Streaming Device 4K/HDR, Rechargeable Roku Remote, Hands-Free Controls, Lost Remote Finder, Free -amp; Live TV – Amazon Exclusive Black

If you’re looking for a streaming device that provides a seamless streaming experience with fast Wi-Fi performance, the Roku Express 4K Pro with Voice Remote Pro is a great option.

Pros

• The Roku Voice Remote Pro is rechargeable and includes TV controls and personal shortcut buttons, making it the ultimate Roku remote.
• Say “Hey Roku” to play entertainment, control your streaming, power up your TV, and even find your lost remote with hands-free voice controls.
• The customizable home screen puts your favorite channels like Netflix, Prime Video, Amazon Freevee, Disney , HBO Max, Apple TV , Sling, and Hulu front and center, so you can spend your time streaming—not scrolling.

Cons

• The packaging you receive may differ from what is advertised.
• The device is only available in black.
• Some users may prefer a larger device with more features.

We recently tried out the Roku Express 4K Pro with Voice Remote Pro and were impressed with how easy it was to set up and use. The device is small and compact, making it easy to fit into any entertainment center. The rechargeable voice remote is a great feature, as it eliminates the need to constantly replace batteries.

The hands-free voice controls are also a game-changer, as they allow you to control your streaming without having to fumble for the remote. We were able to easily set up our favorite channels on the customizable home screen, and we appreciated how the device is always improving with automatic updates.

Overall, if you’re looking for a streaming device that provides a seamless streaming experience with fast Wi-Fi performance and a customizable home screen, the Roku Express 4K Pro with Voice Remote Pro is a great option to consider.

All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device

If you’re looking for a streaming device that can provide you with a cinematic experience, the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device is an excellent choice. It offers advanced 4K streaming, Wi-Fi 6 support, and a wide range of streaming options.

Pros

• Elevate your entertainment with the next generation of Amazon’s best-selling 4K stick.
• Enjoy smooth 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router.
• Watch in vibrant 4K Ultra HD with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and immersive Dolby Atmos audio.

Cons

• Subscription fees may apply to some streaming services.
• The remote may require a learning curve for some users.
• Certain functions may not be available on some IR-enabled devices.

We recently upgraded to the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device, and it has completely transformed our streaming experience. With access to over 1.5 million movies and TV shows, the selection is unparalleled. The device is easy to set up and operate, making it a great choice for those who aren’t tech-savvy.

One of the most significant benefits of the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device is its Wi-Fi 6 support. It ensures smooth 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router. The device also offers a cinematic experience with its vibrant 4K Ultra HD display, Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and immersive Dolby Atmos audio.

The Alexa Voice Remote is another great feature of this streaming device. You can quickly find, launch, and control content with your voice, and get to your favorite apps with preset buttons. The remote also allows you to control compatible devices like cameras and lights with your voice.

Overall, we highly recommend the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a streaming device that offers advanced features and a wide range of streaming options.

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 that offers a wide range of content, the Roku Express is a great option.

Pros

• The Roku Express is easy to set up and use, making it a great choice for new users.
• With a massive selection of free, live, and premium TV channels, there’s always something to watch on the Roku Express.
• The customizable home screen puts your favorite channels front and center, so you can spend less time scrolling and more time streaming.

Cons

• While the Roku Express offers HD streaming, it doesn’t support 4K or HDR content.
• The included standard remote doesn’t offer TV controls, so you’ll need to use a separate remote to adjust the volume or turn your TV on and off.
• While the Roku Express is a great budget option, it doesn’t offer some of the more advanced features found on higher-end streaming devices.

Setting up the Roku Express is a breeze, and the user-friendly interface makes it easy to find and stream your favorite content. With over 400 free live TV channels, there’s always something new to watch, and the customizable home screen ensures that your favorite channels are always within easy reach.

One downside of the Roku Express is that it doesn’t support 4K or HDR content, so if you’re looking for the best possible picture quality, you may want to consider a higher-end streaming device.

Another potential drawback is the lack of TV controls on the included remote. While the remote is easy to use, you’ll need to use a separate remote to adjust the volume or turn your TV on and off.

Overall, the Roku Express is a great budget-friendly streaming device that offers a wide range of content and an easy-to-use interface. If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to stream your favorite TV shows and movies, the Roku Express is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best streaming TV app, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve compiled a list of important factors to keep in mind when making your decision.

Content Selection

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a streaming TV app is the selection of content available. Look for apps that offer a wide variety of TV shows, movies, and other content to ensure that you’ll have plenty to watch. Additionally, consider whether the app offers exclusive content that you can’t find anywhere else.

User Interface

Another important factor to consider is the user interface. Look for an app that is easy to navigate and has a clean, intuitive design. Consider whether the app offers personalized recommendations based on your viewing history, as this can help you discover new content that you may be interested in.

Compatibility

Make sure that the streaming TV app you choose is compatible with your device. Check to see if the app is available on your smart TV, streaming device, or gaming console. Additionally, consider whether the app is compatible with multiple devices, so you can watch your favorite content on the go.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the streaming TV app. While some apps may be free to download, others require a monthly subscription fee. Consider whether the cost is worth it based on the selection of content and other features offered by the app.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best streaming TV app for your needs and enjoy all of your favorite content with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated streaming services for live television?

There are several popular streaming services that offer live TV, including Sling TV, Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, and DirecTV Now. Each service has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to research and compare them to find the one that best suits your needs.

Which streaming platforms offer the best free TV viewing options?

While most streaming services require a paid subscription, there are a few that offer free TV viewing options. Some of the best include Pluto TV, Crackle, and Tubi TV. Keep in mind that these services may not have the latest shows or movies, but they can still be a great option for those on a budget.

How do the major streaming services compare in terms of channel selection?

Each streaming service offers a different selection of channels, so it’s important to compare them to find the one that has the channels you want. Some of the most popular channels include ESPN, CNN, and HBO. Sling TV and DirecTV Now offer the most channels, while Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV are a bit more limited.

What are the most cost-effective streaming TV packages currently available?

The most cost-effective streaming TV packages are usually the ones that offer the most channels for the lowest price. Sling TV and DirecTV Now are both good options for those on a budget, while Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV are a bit more expensive but offer more channels.

Which live TV streaming services provide the best user experience?

The user experience can vary greatly between streaming services, so it’s important to read reviews and try out different services to find the one that works best for you. Sling TV and DirecTV Now are both known for their user-friendly interfaces, while Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV offer more advanced features.

Can you list the streaming services that include both live TV and on-demand content?

Many streaming services offer both live TV and on-demand content, including Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, and DirecTV Now. These services allow you to watch live TV as well as catch up on your favorite shows and movies on demand.