Best 4K Streaming 2024
May 22, 2024
Welcome to the future of streaming! As technology continues to advance, the demand for high-quality 4K streaming experiences is on the rise. Whether you're a movie buff, a gaming enthusiast, or a content creator, the ability to stream in 4K resolution has become a game-changer, offering unparalleled visual clarity and detail. In 2024, the landscape of 4K streaming is evolving rapidly, with a myriad of options available to elevate your viewing and streaming experiences. From resolution and frame rate to HDR support and processing power, the key factors to consider when choosing the best 4K streaming device have never been more crucial.
In this ever-changing world of streaming technology, it's essential to stay informed about the latest advancements and options available to ensure that you're getting the most out of your streaming experience. Whether you're in the market for a new streaming device or looking to upgrade your current setup, understanding the key factors that contribute to an exceptional 4K streaming experience is paramount. Join us as we explore the top considerations for 4K streaming in 2024, providing insights into the essential features and technologies that can take your streaming experience to the next level.
NVIDIA Shield TV Pro: Ultimate Streaming and Gaming Hub
SHIELD Android TV Pro Streaming Media Player; 4K HDR movies, live sports... -- $199.99(Amazon)
SHIELD Android TV Streaming Media Player; 4K HDR, live sports, Dolby Vis... -- $149.99(Amazon)
Shield TV Pro 8 GB Wi-Fi Ethernet LAN Black 4K Ultra, W125800849 (Ethern... -- $390(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro stands out as the ultimate streaming media player for the modern living room, offering unparalleled performance with its high-end features. It supports Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos for an immersive home theater experience, and leverages AI upscaling to enhance HD video to 4K in real-time, ensuring the crispest and most vivid visuals. With the addition of GeForce NOW cloud gaming, it transforms into a powerful PC gaming rig, offering access to over 1000+ titles and the latest in gaming technology with RTX ON. Its built-in Google Assistant and compatibility with Alexa make it a central hub for not just entertainment but also smart home control.
Who It's For
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro is perfect for tech enthusiasts and home theater aficionados who demand the best in streaming quality, audiovisual immersion, and smart home integration. It's also ideal for gamers looking to leverage cloud gaming technology without investing in expensive hardware. However, its higher price point may not suit those looking for a basic streaming device.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Supports Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos for superior audiovisual experience | ❌ Higher price point compared to other streaming devices |
| ✅ AI-enhanced upscaling for real-time HD to 4K video enhancement | ❌ May offer more features than a casual user needs |
| ✅ GeForce NOW cloud gaming transforms it into a powerful gaming rig | ❌ Requires a stable high-speed internet connection for best performance |
Roku Ultra (2024): Best Streaming Player for 4K HDR Enthusiasts
Roku Ultra Streaming Player -- $89.99(Amazon)
Ultra | The Ultimate Streaming Device 4K/HDR/Dolby Vision/Atmos, Recharg... -- $89.99(Amazon)
Roku Ultra LT Streaming Device 4K/HDR/Dolby Vision with Roku Voice Remot... -- $53.35(Walmart - BWWI)
Roku Streaming Stick 4K Streaming Device 4K/HDR/Dolby Vision with Voice ... -- $80.99(ShelHealth.Com)
Ultra LT (2023) HD/4K/HDR Dolby Vision Quad-Core Streaming Player with H... -- $54(Amazon)
Roku Ultra 4800R 4K Streaming Media Player -- $89.99(Roku)
Why We Picked It
The Roku Ultra (2024) is chosen for its exceptional 4K streaming capabilities with HDR10+ support, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience. It offers a wide range of streaming services, making it a versatile choice for users looking to access their favorite content. The device also boasts a rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro with hands-free controls and a lost remote finder, enhancing user convenience.
Who It's For
The Roku Ultra (2024) is ideal for streaming enthusiasts who prioritize a fast and seamless 4K HDR streaming experience and appreciate a comprehensive selection of streaming channels. It's perfect for those who want a high-performance streaming player with advanced features like voice control and private listening. However, it may not be the best fit for users who require Dolby Vision support for their home theater setups.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Smooth 4K streaming with HDR10+ support | ❌ Lacks support for Dolby Vision |
| ✅ Wide selection of streaming services and channels | ❌ May be more expensive than some competitors |
| ✅ Rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro with hands-free controls | ❌ Some users may prefer integrated smart TV functions over a separate streaming device |
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max: Best Value 4K Streaming Device
Fire TV Stick 4K Max streaming device, supports Wi-Fi 6E, free & live TV... -- $39.99(Amazon)
Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device, more than 1.5 million movies and TV e... -- $29.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is selected for its impressive balance of high-end features and affordability. It offers a robust streaming experience with 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos support, ensuring a premium viewing experience. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E compatibility means faster and more reliable streaming, even in households with multiple connected devices. Additionally, the device's powerful processor ensures quick app launches and smooth navigation, enhancing the overall user experience.
Who It's For
This device is ideal for tech-savvy streamers looking for a cost-effective way to enjoy a high-quality viewing experience, with the added convenience of smart home integration. It's also great for gamers who want to access cloud gaming services like Amazon Luna without the need for a console. However, users who prefer a more neutral interface without heavy promotion of Amazon's own content might find the user experience less appealing.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Supports 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos | ❌ Amazon's interface heavily promotes its own content |
| ✅ Wi-Fi 6E compatibility for faster streaming | ❌ Subscription fees for certain services may apply |
| ✅ 16GB of storage for more apps and games | ❌ May not support all third-party streaming services equally |
Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K): Top Choice for Seamless 4K Streaming
Chromecast with Google TV (4K) -- $49.98(Amazon)
Chromecast with Google TV (4K)- Streaming Stick Entertainment with Voice... -- $49.98(Amazon)
Google Chromecast with Google TV - Watch Movies, YouTube, Shows, and Liv... -- $49.99(Amazon)
Google Chromecast with Google TV - Streaming Entertainment in 4K HDR - S... -- $45.99(eBay)
Why We Picked It
The Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K) is a standout choice for those seeking a seamless streaming experience in up to 4K HDR quality. It offers personalized recommendations based on your viewing habits and subscriptions, ensuring you spend less time browsing and more time enjoying your favorite content. With the added convenience of Google Assistant and voice search capabilities, it simplifies the way you interact with your TV, making it easier to find exactly what you're looking for. The device supports a wide range of apps and services, providing access to a vast library of movies, shows, and live TV.
Who It's For
This device is perfect for tech-savvy users and streaming enthusiasts looking for an easy-to-use, high-quality streaming solution that integrates well with other Google services. It's also ideal for those who appreciate voice-controlled functionality and personalized content recommendations. However, it might not be the best fit for users who prefer traditional remote controls or are not as comfortable with touchpad-style remotes.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Crystal clear 4K HDR streaming | ❌ Touchpad-style remote may not appeal to everyone |
| ✅ Personalized content recommendations | ❌ Requires high-speed internet for 4K streaming |
| ✅ Voice search with Google Assistant | ❌ Dependent on compatible TV and broadband connection for full functionality |
Xiaomi Mi Box S: Best Budget 4K Streaming Device
Xiaomi Mi Box S (2nd Gen) with 4K Ultra HD Streaming Media Player |Dual ... -- $44.38(Microless.com)
Xiaomi Mi TV Box S 4K 2nd Gen - Google TV -- $61(Amazon)
Xiaomi MI Box S Gen 2 4K Ultra HDR Streaming Player, Portable Android TV... -- $45.21(Microless.com)
Why We Picked It
The Xiaomi Mi Box S offers an affordable entry into the world of 4K HDR streaming with a user-friendly interface and a suite of features that enhance the viewing experience. With support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, and DTS-HD Audio, it promises a cinematic audio-visual experience at a budget-friendly price point. The inclusion of Google TV also provides a personalized and integrated platform for all your streaming services and smart home control.
Who It's For
The Xiaomi Mi Box S is ideal for those looking for an economical way to upgrade their current television setup to a smart TV with 4K streaming capabilities. It's perfect for casual viewers and tech-savvy users who want a simple, straightforward device that can handle most streaming tasks without breaking the bank.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Affordable 4K HDR streaming | ❌ Performance may lag with high bitrate content |
| ✅ Integrated Google TV with personalized recommendations | ❌ Limited internal storage at 8GB ROM |
| ✅ Supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for enhanced picture and sound | ❌ May not match the processing power of premium streaming devices |
TiVo Stream 4K: Best Unified Streaming and Live TV Device
TiVo Stream 4K – Every Streaming App and Live TV On One Screen – UHD,... -- $24.65(Amazon)
Stream 4K – Every Streaming App and Live TV on One Screen – 4K UHD, Dolb... -- $24.65(Amazon)
NEW TiVo Stream 4K - Every Streaming App and Live TV on One Screen – 4K ... -- $29.99(GoodwillFinds)
TiVo Edge for Cable | Cable TV DVR and Streaming 4K UHD Media Player wit... -- $249.99(Walmart - Tech Mate Deals)
Why We Picked It
The TiVo Stream 4K is an excellent choice for users looking to combine their live TV experience with the convenience of streaming services, all in one device. It supports 4K UHD, Dolby Vision HDR, and Dolby Atmos Sound, offering a high-quality audiovisual experience. The device is powered by Android TV and comes with a voice remote control, making navigation and control seamless and intuitive.
Who It's For
The TiVo Stream 4K is ideal for those who appreciate a unified viewing platform that blends live TV with a variety of streaming apps. It's perfect for users who want to avoid the hassle of app-switching and desire recommendations across all their services. However, it might not be the best fit for users who exclusively stream on-demand content and have no use for live TV integration.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Combines live TV and streaming apps on one screen | ❌ Not ideal for users who don't watch live TV |
| ✅ Supports 4K UHD, Dolby Vision HDR, and Dolby Atmos | ❌ May require additional subscriptions for full functionality |
| ✅ Voice remote with integrated Google Assistant for easy control | ❌ Some users may prefer separate devices for streaming and live TV |
Sling Media AirTV 4K: Best for Integrating Local Channels with Streaming
AirTV Mini -- $79.99(Winegard Company)
Sling AirTV 2 Dual-Tuner Local Channel Streamer for TVs and Mobile Devic... -- $129.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Sling Media AirTV 4K is an excellent choice for users who want to combine the convenience of streaming services with access to local over-the-air channels in high definition. It allows for seamless integration of local content with your streaming experience, and with the added DVR functionality, you can record and watch local shows at your leisure. This device is particularly useful for cord-cutters who still want to keep local channels in their entertainment lineup.
Who It's For
The Sling Media AirTV 4K is best suited for individuals or families who are looking to cut the cord from traditional cable services but don't want to miss out on local channels and live events. It's also ideal for those who appreciate the ability to record live TV to watch at a later time. However, it may not be the best fit for users who are not interested in local channels or who do not want to invest in additional equipment such as an antenna or external hard drive for DVR capabilities.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Integrates local channels with streaming services | ❌ Requires additional antenna for local channels |
| ✅ HD viewing of local channels on multiple devices | ❌ External hard drive needed for DVR use |
| ✅ DVR functionality to record and watch shows later | ❌ Local channel availability varies by location |
Netgear Nighthawk Streaming Player: Best Streaming Player for Connectivity
Netgear Nighthawk C7000 -- $192(Amazon)
Nighthawk 6-Stream Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (RAX54S) – AX5400 Wireless Sp... -- $159.99(Amazon)
Netgear Nighthawk AX2700 WiFi6 Cable Modem Router Docsis 3.1 CAX30 -- $254.99(eBay - esquared2018)
Nighthawk 12-Stream WiFi 6E Router (RAXE500) | AXE11000 Tri-Band Wireles... -- $599.99(Amazon)
Netgear Nighthawk AX5 5 Stream AX4200 WiFi 6 Router -- $249.99(Best Buy)
Nighthawk WiFi 6 Mesh Range Extender EAX80 - Add up to 2,500 sq. ft. and... -- $184.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Netgear Nighthawk Streaming Player is selected for its potential to leverage Netgear's expertise in networking to deliver a streaming experience with superior connectivity and performance. With the brand's history of producing high-quality routers and networking equipment, this streaming player is expected to provide a seamless and robust streaming experience, especially for users with high bandwidth demands.
Who It's For
This streaming player is ideal for tech-savvy users who prioritize a stable and fast internet connection for their streaming needs. It's also well-suited for Netgear enthusiasts who have experienced the reliability of the brand's networking products and are looking to extend that experience to their streaming setup. However, it may not be the best choice for users who rely heavily on a wide range of apps, as the device's app ecosystem might not be as extensive as those offered by more established streaming device brands.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Exceptional connectivity and streaming performance | ❌ App ecosystem may not be as comprehensive as competitors |
| ✅ Potential integration with Netgear's high-performance routers for extended coverage | ❌ Higher price point compared to some mainstream streaming devices |
| ✅ Includes a 1-year Armor subscription for enhanced security | ❌ Brand not traditionally known for streaming hardware, which may affect consumer confidence |
Excited to help you find the perfect 4K streaming setup! Have more questions or need recommendations? I'm here to assist. Let's make your streaming experience top-notch!
