Our picks at a glance
Paid link: buttons go to the retailer. Prices change often, so we link to the current price instead of listing one.
Comparison table
| Feature | Best overallApple TV 4K | ValueAmazon Fire TV Stick 4K | Google usersGoogle TV Streamer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verdict | Buy | Buy | Buy |
| Typical price | £140–£170 | £45–£65 | £90–£100 |
| Best for | Apple homes | Value | Google users |
| Key feature | Fast, ad-free interface | 4K HDR with Alexa remote | Google TV with smart home hub |
| Resolution | 4K HDR | 4K HDR | 4K HDR |
| Storage | 64 GB+ | — | — |
| Remote | — | Alexa | — |
| Hub | — | — | Matter |
| Where to buy | Check Price Paid link | Check Price Paid link | Check Price Paid link |
Apple · Streaming devices
Apple TV 4K
Fast, ad-free interface.
- Buy it if
- you use Apple devices
- Skip it if
- you want the cheapest
Pros
- Fast
- No ads
- Great Apple integration
Cons
- Pricey
Key specifications
- Resolution
- 4K HDR
- Storage
- 64 GB+
Amazon · Streaming devices
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
4K HDR with Alexa remote.
- Buy it if
- you want cheap 4K streaming
- Skip it if
- you use Apple devices
Pros
- Cheap
- All UK apps
- Alexa remote
Cons
- Ads on home screen
Key specifications
- Resolution
- 4K HDR
- Remote
- Alexa
Google · Streaming devices
Google TV Streamer
Google TV with smart home hub.
- Buy it if
- you use Google services
- Skip it if
- you want portability
Pros
- Google TV
- Smart home hub
- Fast
Cons
- Pricier than sticks
Key specifications
- Resolution
- 4K HDR
- Hub
- Matter
Compare more Streaming devices on Amazon Paid link
Who this list is for
Fire TV Sticks, Roku, Chromecast and Apple TV compared on apps, 4K support and value. We show what each model does best, what it typically costs in the UK and who should skip it.
How we chose
We compared manufacturer specifications, UK warranty terms, running costs and typical UK prices, then gave every product a clear verdict: Buy, Consider or Skip. Our verdicts are based on this research, not on lab tests we have not done.
What to look for
- 4K HDR matters only if your TV supports it.
- Check that UK catch-up apps are available.
- Voice remotes make searching easier.
Buying in the UK
Make sure BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4 and My5 are supported – all the main sticks carry them.
Frequently asked questions
Which streaming stick is best?
Fire TV Stick for value, Google TV Streamer for Google users, Apple TV 4K for iPhone households.
Do I need a TV Licence for streaming sticks?
Only if you watch live TV or BBC iPlayer.