Streaming devices
Streaming sticks and boxes, judged on speed, picture, remote and interface.
The best streaming device, according to professional reviewers, is the Apple TV 4K (3rd generation): critic score 88 out of 100 from 8 reviews, 8 of them positive. Critics praise its performance and sound quality. The most common complaint is missing features.
Apple TV 4K (3rd generation)
All 8 reviewers recommend the Apple TV 4K as the fastest, cleanest streaming box, with excellent picture and sound. It works best if you already use Apple devices, and it costs more than a stick.
The catch: Expensive, and best inside Apple's world.
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Not the Apple TV 4K (3rd generation)? Pick by situation
How do they compare?
| Product | Score | Reviews | Agreement | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) | 88 | 8 | High | Best overall |
| Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen) | 85 | 11 | Medium | Best stick |
| Roku Ultra | 84 | 9 | High | Best remote |
| Google TV Streamer | 82 | 10 | High | Smart home hub |
Not scored yet
We publish a score only once at least 5 professional reviews of the exact model exist.
- Roku Streaming Stick Plus · 1 of 5 reviews needed
Common questions
What is the best streaming device?
The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation), with a critic score of 88 from 8 professional reviews. Critics praise its performance and sound quality. The most common complaint is missing features.
Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) vs Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen): which is better?
Critics score the Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) 88 and the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen) 85. We list the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen) under “Best stick”. Its main drawback: very Amazon-centric menus.