What to look for
- Pick the platform that matches your phone and smart home: Apple, Google or Alexa.
- Look for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support if your TV and soundbar handle them.
- Ethernet helps if your Wi-Fi is weak where the TV sits.
- A remote with TV power and volume buttons saves juggling two remotes.
How much to spend
Typical prices run from £39 to £139. Budget models cover the basics; spending more usually buys snappy, ad-free interface and Apple ecosystem. Only pay for features you will use.
Who should skip what
- Skip the Apple TV 4K if you want the cheapest way to get 4K streaming
- Skip the Roku Streaming Stick 4K if you want Apple-level speed or an Ethernet port
- Skip the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max if you dislike ads and Amazon content dominating the home screen
- Skip the Google TV Streamer if you want the fastest interface or Dolby Vision with fewer quirks; Apple TV is smoother
Buying tips
Amazon and Roku devices are deeply discounted on Prime Day and Black Friday. Apple TV deals are smaller but common at big-box retailers. Keep the HDMI cable short and use the included power adapter for stability.
Our picks
See all our best streaming devices in the uk for more options.
Recommended products
Best overallApple · Streaming Devices
Apple TV 4K (3rd generation)
Fast, clean and ad-free.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Fastest, cleanest experience
- Typical price
- £109–£139
Pros
- Very fast A15 Bionic chip
- No ads on the home screen
Cons
- Pricier than sticks
Easiest to useRoku · Streaming Devices
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Simple interface and a great remote.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Simple 4K streaming
- Typical price
- £39–£49
Pros
- Simple, neutral home screen
- Dolby Vision and HDR10+
Cons
- No Ethernet port
Best budgetAmazon · Streaming Devices
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen)
Fast 4K for under £60.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Budget 4K and Alexa homes
- Typical price
- £39–£49
Pros
- Low price
- Wi-Fi 6E
Cons
- Ad-heavy interface
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a streaming device if I have a smart TV?
Not always, but a separate streamer is often faster, gets updates longer and has fewer ads than the TV's built-in software.
Roku vs Fire TV: which is better?
Roku is simpler and app-neutral. Fire TV is faster for the money and better for Alexa homes, but it pushes Amazon content harder.
Is Apple TV 4K worth it for Android users?
Yes, if you want the smoothest interface with no home-screen ads. You just lose some iPhone conveniences.