Indeed, the primary focus of education should be on academic studies. However, it is unlikely that any student, whether they are learning remotely from home or residing in a dorm, will completely abstain from watching television. Fortunately, most modern televisions come equipped with smart technology and streaming capabilities, eliminating the necessity for cable or satellite services and even disc players. Even an outdated, secondhand “non-smart” TV can be adapted for streaming with the addition of a $30-$50 accessory. In the following sections, we have provided a selection of top picks at various price points to cater to all preferences.
Check out our selection for the best back-to-school streaming devices and TVs, while keeping a few things in mind:
Our list features Roku options heavily, as it’s our preferred budget-friendly smart TV OS. However, if you don’t mind seeing Prime shows being promoted in the menus, Amazon Fire TV sticks and TVs are good alternatives.?Each TV has at least two HDMI ports for easy connection to laptops, gaming consoles, or other modern video sources. All of our selections were independently chosen and fully reviewed by CNET editors.
Roku Express 4K Plus
Best overall streaming device
$39 at Walmart$40 at Amazon$40 at Best Buy
Roku is our preferred streaming platform, offering the largest selection of streaming applications, a user-friendly interface, and superior search capabilities. This makes it an excellent option for students, and the new Express 4K Plus, which is one of the most affordable 4K HDR streaming TV options available. Even if your student’s TV does not currently support these formats, the next one most likely will. With the recent AirPlay update, this Roku device is one of the least expensive methods of connecting your iPhone or other Apple device to your television. At $10 less expensive than the company’s Streaming Stick Plus and other 4K HDR streaming devices, it is our top choice.
$39 on Walmart, $40 on Amazon and Best Buy.
Sarah Tew/CNET
Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite
Best budget streaming device
$20 at Amazon
You’re now receiving price alerts for Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite.
Let’s begin with the fact that if your student prefers Roku’s straightforward app-based menus, you may need to spend more on the Roku Express (mentioned below). However, in terms of features for the price, the Lite outperforms the Express. The Fire TV Stick’s most significant advantage is its remote, which features built-in voice search and control through Alexa (the cheapest Roku with a voice remote is the Express Plus 4K). Additionally, the Fire Stick’s remote doesn’t require line-of-sight to function. If you’re searching for an affordable streamer for a student, this is your best option.
Check out our review of the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite.
Currently priced at $20 on Amazon. You have received a notification for this price drop on the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite.
Check out our review of the TCL S325.
You will also receive price alerts for the TCL 32S331, which is currently priced at $177 at Walmart.
Insignia Amazon Fire TV Edition, priced at $130 on Amazon, is a top contender for the best affordable 32-inch TV. It’s a great option if you want an alternative to Roku and the recipient of the gift is an Amazon Prime member. This TV comes with built-in Amazon streaming system and Alexa control, and is currently priced even lower than Roku’s 32-inch TVs. Although we have not yet reviewed this specific Insignia model, we anticipate it to perform equally well as the Toshiba model we reviewed.
$130 on Amazon
Geoffrey Morrison from CNET recommends the TCL 4-Series Roku TV as the best option for those on a budget looking for a 4K TV. This television is available at Walmart for $550, at Amazon for $650, and at B&H Photo-Video for $700. It is available in sizes ranging from 43 to 85 inches and features LED technology. Additionally, it is a smart TV with Roku TV, Android TV, and Google TV capabilities. It also boasts a 4K resolution and has three HDMI ports.
Is your pupil in search of a sizable display, preferably with a 4K resolution? If you’re seeking an uncomplicated television with satisfactory image quality, this is an outstanding starting point. It’s astonishingly reasonably priced and presents a variety of sizes that support 4K resolution, beginning with the 43-inch version that’s linked here. It’s a superb economical option for any 4K-compatible gaming system.
Check out our review of the TCL 4-series Roku TV (2021) which is available for purchase at $550 from Walmart, $650 from Amazon, and $700 from B&H Photo-Video.
Sarah Tew/CNET
Roku Express HD
Best runner-up streaming device under budget
$25 at Roku $38 at Walmart $25 at Amazon
Despite lacking the voice capabilities and point-anywhere remote of the more affordable Fire TV Stick Lite, The Express performs basic functions flawlessly with prompt response times and Roku’s user-friendly interface. Opting for a cheaper alternative may result in reduced 4K HDR quality and an inferior remote compared to the Express Plus 4K, but it still provides access to the same array of excellent content.
Check out our review of Roku Express (2019).
$25 on Roku’s website
$38 at Walmart
$25 on Amazon
Nvidia Shield TV, renowned as the supreme gaming streamer, is an excellent pick for students who are fond of gaming, especially PC gaming. The Shield TV comes with comprehensive features that allow users to stream using Steam Link or delve into a great selection of Android games. Besides, its compact design also makes it an ideal video streamer that gives access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney Plus, Twitch, and YouTube. The Shield TV is available at Walmart, Amazon, and Best Buy for $150.
Check out our review of Nvidia Shield TV, available for purchase at Walmart, Amazon, and Best Buy for $150, with the latest model expected to be released in 2023.
Sarah Tew/CNET
Roku Streambar
The best combination of soundbar and streamer
$130 at Roku$137 at Walmart$130 at Amazon 2023
The Roku Streambar combines the functionality of a 4K streaming box and a soundbar, making it an ideal choice for upgrading your outdated TVs. In addition to being reasonably priced, it is incredibly user-friendly and allows for future upgrades such as rear speakers and a subwoofer. Despite its small size, it delivers impressive sound quality across games, movies, and music.
Check out our review of the Roku Streambar.
$130 on Roku, $137 on Walmart, and $130 on Amazon.
2020.
TCL 6-Series Roku TV, dubbed as the best smart TV in the mid-price range, is available in 55-, 65-, and 75-inch sizes in 2020. It uses QLED with Mini-LED technology and has a smart Roku TV system. The TV has 4K resolution and comes with 4 HDMI ports. It is priced at $1,000 at Walmart, $1,000 at Amazon, and $1,300 at B&H Photo-Video.
Looking for a grander and more exceptional screen to surprise your student? Our personal choice for the best TV overall in terms of value is the TCL 6-Series, which provides outstanding visual performance surpassing that of several pricier alternatives. It may be a challenge to accommodate the smallest size (55 inches) in a dorm room, but if your student has adequate space and your budget permits, it’s a fantastic option.
Check out our review of the TCL 6-Series (2020 Roku TV).
$1,000 on Walmart
$1,000 on Amazon
$1,300 on B&H Photo-Video
Check out this video: Which Roku Should You Choose? Our Comprehensive Breakdown 03:43
