Just because you don’t own a smart TV, doesn’t mean you need one. With the rise of streaming video content, cable TV cord cutting, and platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube, there are plenty of ways to stream video content on your television. However, the most cost-effective solution would be a dedicated media streamer from established companies like Roku or Amazon Fire TV. These streaming devices also make great gifts due to their user-friendly interfaces that open up access to a vast array of entertainment content. These apps come in both free and subscription-based options, and can be easily navigated with or without a remote. Whether you have a remote or not, all these streamers can help you get the best TV experience.
More information: Top live TV streaming services for those who have canceled cable in 2019 | Best HDMI cables for your new 4K and HDR TV.
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Roku Express: $24
Top pick for affordable streaming devices
At a price lower than many dinner options, the compact and powerful Express model offers everything you need, including prompt response times and a user-friendly interface exclusive to Roku. With unrivaled access to major applications such as Netflix and Apple TV, in addition to thousands of smaller providers, users can take full advantage of the vast library of available content. The Express Plus is also a great option for those with older TVs lacking an HDMI port.
Check out our review of the Roku Express (2019).
$25 at Roku$25 at Amazon$38 at Walmart
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Amazon Fire TV Stick: $35
Affordable media streaming option for Alexa enthusiasts
While Roku offers a simpler menu system, the basic Fire TV Stick stands out with its advanced features. Its remote allows users to control TV volume and power, and utilize voice commands to search for videos to stream, check the weather, or turn off the lights.
Check out our review of the Amazon Fire TV Stick with the all-new Alexa Voice Remote (2019).
Price alert: Amazon Fire TV Stick now at $33 on eBay.
For more information, take a look at our list of the Best TVs in 2019.
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Google Chromecast: $35
Best for those who prefer controlling streams with their phones
If your gift recipient prefers to control videos with their phone rather than use a remote, then Chromecast is the way to go. It makes use of the Cast function on iPhones, Android phones, and other devices to control video from most major content apps, including Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and thousands of other apps. The major drawback is that it lacks a remote control or on-screen menu system, meaning you need an Android or iPhone device to use it.
Check out our review of the Google Chromecast 2018.
It’s available on eBay for $29. You’ve also signed up for price alerts and will be notified if the price drops to $35.
Roku Streaming Stick Plus: $50
Best 4K HDR streamer for the money in 2020
The Plus version has all the features of the Roku Express and additionally offers 4K HDR video output. If your gift recipient has a 4K HDR TV or plans to get one soon (note: most new TVs are 4K nowadays), this is a preferable option to the Express as it provides the best video quality from popular streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. It also comes equipped with a point-anywhere remote control that has the ability to control TV volume, mute, and power. The Roku Streaming Stick Plus is our top choice for an all-around streaming device.
Check out our review of the Roku Streaming Stick Plus.
$67 on Amazon, $70 at Walmart. You have received a price alert for the Roku Streaming Stick Plus: $50.
$50 Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K: Alexa and Dolby Vision in one budget-friendly package
While Roku Streaming Stick Plus boasts better menus, Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K has its own perks. Its Alexa-powered voice search, voice commands, and voice control are top-notch, and it also supports Dolby Vision HDR, a feature that is absent from Roku players. While this may not be a must-have feature, it could be a compelling reason to opt for Amazon’s stick over Roku if your recipient has a TV that supports Dolby Vision and wants to stream content in that format.
Check out our review of the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K.
$50 on Amazon$33 on eBay You have received price notifications for the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, which is currently priced at $50.
Roku Ultra, priced at $83, offers a deluxe media streaming experience for those seeking a little extra luxury. While all of the above-mentioned streamers perform well at half the price of the Ultra, it comes with a smart remote that boasts several additional features. This includes an onboard headphone jack to enable uninterrupted TV viewing, a remote finder to help locate it when it goes missing in the couch cushions, and a pair of voice programmable shortcut buttons to control it with voice commands. The Ultra device also has an Ethernet port, which sets it apart from all other streamers mentioned earlier, including the Apple TV 4K, offering you the option of a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi.
Check out our review of the Roku Ultra (2019).
$98 on Walmart | $118 on Amazon | $103 on eBay
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Apple TV 4K: $170
Experience top-quality media streaming (and gaming) with the Apple TV 4K. It offers 4K HDR compatibility with Dolby Vision, a stylish touch-sensitive remote, and seamless connectivity with all of Apple’s devices and services. Additionally, Apple Arcade provides brilliant gaming with Xbox and PlayStation controller support for a truly immersive experience. While the arrival of TV content apps and iTunes on Roku and Amazon has somewhat diminished its appeal to budget-conscious Apple enthusiasts, it is still a premium choice for those who wish to splurge.
Check out our review of the Apple TV 4K.
$6 on eBay$140 on Amazon You’ve subscribed to price updates for the Apple TV 4K: $170
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