5 Streaming Devices That Even Tech Experts Swear By in 2025
July 18, 2025
Overview
In the ever-evolving world of home entertainment, staying on top of the latest streaming devices is crucial. This guide presents five streaming devices that even tech experts are recommending in 2025, ensuring you're equipped with the best technology for seamless viewing. We delve into each device's key features, performance capabilities, and value proposition, helping you make informed decisions about cutting the cord and transforming your TV viewing experience. From popular streaming sticks to high-end media players, we break down the top choices to streamline your entertainment setup.
In this guide
Our picks
The Best Streaming Stick for Value: Roku Streaming Stick 4K, $34.99
The Best Streaming Device for 4K & HDR: Roku Ultra, $177.90
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8.5
Listful
Score
NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro
$196.99
In our testing, the NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro impresses with its breathtaking 4K HDR visuals and AI-enhanced upscaling, making every scene a visual masterpiece. Dolby Audio and DTS-X surround sound add to the immersive experience. However, its higher price and a remote control lacking backlighting might be drawbacks in low-light conditions. Despite the cost, its storage expandability offers immense value, especially for avid media collectors and gamers.
The Good
• Supports 4K HDR and AI-enhanced upscaling for stunning picture quality.
• Dolby Audio and DTS-X surround sound deliver immersive and high-quality audio.
• Expandable storage allows for storing a vast library of media.
The Bad
• Higher price compared to other streaming devices on the market.
• Remote control lacks backlighting, which may be inconvenient in low-light conditions.
• Limited internal storage may require external storage solutions for extensive media collections.
Streaming Resolution: 4K / Voice Control: true / Compatibility: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Hulu,Disney+,YouTube / Gaming Support: true
8
Listful
Score
Apple TV 4K
$149.00
The Apple TV 4K, rated 8/10, shines in seamlessly integrating with the Apple ecosystem, offering high-quality 4K HDR and Dolby Vision support. Although the price is higher and gaming support limited, its compatibility with iPhone and HomeKit devices stands out. In our experience, it’s an excellent choice for Apple enthusiasts who prioritize a cohesive ecosystem, despite the lack of cutting-edge gaming features.
The Good
• Supports 4K HDR and Dolby Vision for enhanced picture quality.
• Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, including iPhone and HomeKit devices.
The Bad
• High price point compared to other streaming devices.
• Limited support for gaming with a 60fps ceiling and reliance on third-party controllers.
Streaming Resolution: 4K / Voice Control: true / Compatibility: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Hulu,Disney+,YouTube / Gaming Support: true
8
Listful
Score
Chromecast with Google TV (4K)
$84.00
During our review, the Chromecast with Google TV (4K) impressed us with its user-friendly interface and quality 4K HDR visuals at a reasonable price point. While its internal storage is limited and only Wi-Fi connectivity is available, the personalized Google TV interface and voice-controlled remote offer an intuitive experience. It's a solid mid-range device for users who prioritize easy navigation and seamless integration with Google services.
The Good
• Supports 4K HDR streaming for high-quality visuals.
• Intuitive Google TV interface with personalized recommendations.
• Includes a remote with Google Assistant for voice control.
The Bad
• Limited internal storage of 8GB, with only about 4GB available for apps and content.
• No Ethernet port, limiting connectivity options to Wi-Fi only.
• Some users report occasional software bugs affecting performance.
Streaming Resolution: 4K / Voice Control: true / Compatibility: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Hulu,Disney+,YouTube / Gaming Support: false
7
Listful
Score
Roku Ultra
$177.90
The Roku Ultra offers solid performance with 4K resolution, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support but is overshadowed by its high price and cluttered interface. We appreciated the rechargeable voice remote's lost remote finder feature and the device’s dual connectivity options via Wi-Fi 6 or Ethernet. However, during testing, the ad-laden interface and limited innovation over previous models were notable drawbacks, reflected in its 7/10 score.
The Good
• Supports 4K resolution with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision for enhanced picture quality.
• Includes a rechargeable voice remote with a lost remote finder feature.
• Offers both Wi-Fi 6 and Ethernet connectivity for reliable streaming.
The Bad
• The interface is cluttered with ads, which can be distracting.
• Limited improvements over previous models may not justify the price for some users.
• Smart home integration is primarily limited to Roku products.
Streaming Resolution: 4K / Voice Control: true / Compatibility: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Hulu,Disney+,YouTube / Gaming Support: false
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9.5
Listful
Score
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
$34.99
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K earns our top score of 9.5/10, delivering unbeatable value at just $34.99. During our review, we found its support for 4K resolution with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ resulted in exceptional picture quality. While it lacks Dolby Atmos audio and Ethernet support, its fast performance and user-friendly interface make it a standout choice. It's the perfect pick for those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-performing streaming device.
The Good
• Supports 4K resolution with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for enhanced picture quality.
• Fast and fluid performance with dependable Wi-Fi connectivity.
• Easy-to-use interface with comprehensive app support.
The Bad
• No support for Dolby Atmos audio.
• Lacks Ethernet port; only supports wireless connections.
• Remote does not include a headphone jack for private listening.
Streaming Resolution: 4K / Voice Control: true / Compatibility: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Hulu,Disney+,YouTube / Gaming Support: false
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7.5
Listful
Score
Amazon Fire TV Cube
$137.19
The Amazon Fire TV Cube, rated 7.5/10, offers the convenience of hands-free Alexa voice control and supports 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision and Atmos audio. While it's criticized for including promotional content and a missing HDMI cable, its ability to control other devices like cable boxes via HDMI makes it versatile. Our testing found it suitable for those wanting voice-controlled streaming and smart home device management in one.
The Good
• Supports 4K Ultra HD streaming with Dolby Vision and Atmos for high-quality visuals and immersive audio.
• Hands-free Alexa voice control allows for easy navigation and control of compatible devices.
• Includes HDMI input for connecting and controlling other devices like cable boxes or game consoles.
The Bad
• Does not include an HDMI cable, requiring a separate purchase for setup.
• The user interface contains a significant amount of sponsored content and self-promotion.
• Priced higher than basic streaming sticks, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Streaming Resolution: 4K / Voice Control: true / Compatibility: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Hulu,Disney+,YouTube / Gaming Support: true
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7.5
Listful
Score
Apple TV 4K (3rd generation)
$129.99
The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) is powerful, boasting a vibrant A15 Bionic chip with up to 50% more CPU performance than its predecessors. It’s well-suited for users looking for outstanding HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support. However, our experience shows navigation can be cumbersome due to the lack of a dedicated Home button, and some users encounter setup issues. Despite a modest score of 7.5/10, it remains a strong contender for those within the Apple ecosystem.
The Good
• The A15 Bionic chip delivers up to 50% more CPU performance than the previous Apple TV 4K.
• Supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision for brighter, more vibrant colors and great detail on compatible TVs.
The Bad
• The remote control lacks a dedicated Home button, making navigation less intuitive.
• Some users report setup issues, including server identification problems and repeated login prompts.
Streaming Resolution: 4K / Voice Control: true / Compatibility: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Hulu,Disney+,YouTube / Gaming Support: true
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