The Best Streaming Devices of 2025: Tested and Reviewed
July 16, 2025
Overview
Looking to upgrade your home entertainment? Our comprehensive guide to the best streaming devices of 2025 provides in-depth reviews and comparisons to help you choose the perfect streamer. We've rigorously tested and evaluated the top streaming boxes, sticks, and devices on the market, considering factors like performance, features, ease of use, and value. Whether you're a cord-cutter or simply looking for a better streaming experience, our expert recommendations will help you find the ideal device to access your favorite movies, TV shows, and live content with ease. We'll highlight the best options, considering different budgets and needs.
Our picks
The Best Streaming Device for Stunning 4K Quality: NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro Streaming Media Player; 4K HDR movies, live sports, Dolby Vision-Atmos, AI-enhanced upscaling, GeForce NOW cloud gaming, Google Assistant Built-In, Works with Alexa, $196.99
The Best Budget-Friendly Streaming Stick of 2025: Roku® Streaming Stick® 4K, $34.99
The Best Streaming Device for Cord Cutters in 2025: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (newest model) with AI-powered Fire TV Search, Wi-Fi 6, stream over 1.5 million movies and shows, free & live TV, $48.99
The Most Voice-Activated Streaming Device: Amazon Fire TV Cube (newest model) with AI-powered Fire TV Search, Hands-free streaming device with Alexa, Wi-Fi 6E, 4K Ultra HD, $137.19
The Fastest Streaming Device for Buffer-Free Viewing: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max streaming device, Wi-Fi 6E, Alexa Voice Remote (Includes TV Controls), $59.99
Best Streaming Devices: 4K and HDR
Explore the top-performing devices offering stunning 4K and HDR picture quality for your TV.
7.5
Listful
Score
Roku® Streaming Stick® 4K
$34.99
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a solid choice for budget-conscious viewers, offering crisp 4K streaming with Dolby Vision and HDR10+. In our testing, its compact design was a standout, especially for those tight on HDMI space. While it lacks modern audio features like Dolby Atmos and can only connect via Wi-Fi, its user-friendly interface and wide app range make it a reliable option. Scoring 7.5/10, it's a smart pick for straightforward streaming needs.
The Good
• Supports 4K resolution with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for enhanced picture quality.
• Compact design that doesn't block neighboring HDMI ports.
• Easy-to-use interface with a wide range of streaming apps available.
The Bad
• Lacks Dolby Atmos support for immersive audio experience.
• No Ethernet port; relies solely on Wi-Fi for connectivity.
• Voice remote lacks a headphone jack for private listening.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
7
Listful
Score
Apple TV 4K, 64GB, Wifi
$129.00
Apple TV 4K with 64GB storage is a great option for Apple enthusiasts, providing seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. Its 4K HDR support offers a premium viewing experience, though its 7/10 rating reflects some post-update performance issues and a high price point. In our experience, its fast and user-friendly interface was a significant strength, ideal for those accustomed to Apple's intuitive design.
The Good
• The Apple TV 4K offers a smooth and reactive media OS experience.
• The device is praised for its fast performance and ease of use.
The Bad
• Some users have reported performance issues after software updates.
• The price point is considered high by some customers.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: iOS,macOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
7
Listful
Score
Roku Express 4K+ Streaming Device HD/4K/HDR with Roku Voice Remote with TV Controls
$39.99
Roku Express 4K+ is a commendable choice for budget streamers seeking solid 4K HDR performance without breaking the bank. It earned a score of 7/10 in our review due to its affordability and convenient voice remote with TV controls. However, its lack of support for Dolby Vision and reliance on Wi-Fi connectivity are minor drawbacks. Overall, it's perfect for users who prioritize ease of use and value for money.
The Good
• Supports 4K streaming with HDR at an affordable price point.
• Includes a voice remote with TV controls for convenient operation.
• Easy setup process with a user-friendly interface.
The Bad
• Lacks support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos.
• Remote design may not suit all hand sizes, leading to accidental button presses.
• No Ethernet port, relying solely on Wi-Fi for connectivity.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
7.5
Listful
Score
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max streaming device, Wi-Fi 6E, Alexa Voice Remote (Includes TV Controls)
$59.99
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max excels in delivering exceptional streaming quality with 4K HDR and Dolby Vision, achieving a score of 7.5/10. Its inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E ensures speedy and reliable access, ideal for tech-savvy users. However, the Amazon-centric interface might not be for everyone. Its Alexa voice remote adds convenience, particularly for smart home enthusiasts wanting seamless device integration.
The Good
• Supports 4K Ultra HD streaming with HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision.
• Equipped with Wi-Fi 6E for faster and more reliable streaming.
• Includes Alexa Voice Remote with TV controls for convenient navigation.
The Bad
• Lacks support for Google Cast and Apple AirPlay.
• Interface heavily promotes Amazon content, which may be intrusive.
• Remote design has become cluttered with too many buttons.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
8
Listful
Score
Apple TV 4K, 128GB, Wifi + Ethernet with Thread Networking support
$149.00
Apple's advanced 128GB Apple TV 4K with Ethernet earned an 8/10 rating thanks to its superb Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support. It's a smart investment for Apple device users who rely on an integrated ecosystem. Although it commands a higher price and requires additional cable purchases, its Thread networking adds valuable smart home functionality, making it perfect for those prioritizing top-tier performance and connectivity.
The Good
• Supports 4K resolution with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision for enhanced picture quality.
• Includes Siri Remote with voice control for easy navigation.
• Functions as a smart home hub with Thread networking support.
The Bad
• Higher price point compared to some other streaming devices.
• Limited to the Apple ecosystem, which may restrict app availability.
• Requires additional purchases like HDMI and USB-C cables, as they are sold separately.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: iOS,macOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
7.5
Listful
Score
Amazon Fire TV Cube (newest model) with AI-powered Fire TV Search, Hands-free streaming device with Alexa, Wi-Fi 6E, 4K Ultra HD
$137.19
The newest Amazon Fire TV Cube combines stunning 4K Ultra HD streaming with hands-free Alexa control, which proved exceedingly convenient during our review. Its Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support enhance both picture and sound. However, its $137.19 price point and ad-heavy interface may detract from its appeal. Scoring 7.5/10, it excels in multimedia capabilities, but its value is somewhat diminished for budget-conscious users.
The Good
• Supports 4K Ultra HD streaming with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for enhanced picture and sound quality.
• Hands-free Alexa voice control allows for convenient operation without a remote.
• Includes HDMI input for connecting other devices like cable boxes or game consoles.
The Bad
• Higher price point compared to other streaming devices with similar features.
• User interface contains a significant amount of advertisements and self-promotional content.
• Built-in speaker quality is underwhelming for standalone use.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
8
Listful
Score
Roku Ultra - Ultimate Streaming Player - 4K Streaming Device for TV with HDR10+, Dolby Vision & Atmos - Bluetooth & Wi-Fi 6- Rechargeable Voice Remote Pro with Backlit Buttons - Free & Live TV
$69.00
The Roku Ultra is a standout streaming player, offering exceptional 4K quality with Dolby Vision and Atmos support that resonated well with our expert reviewers. Its rechargeable Voice Remote Pro adds convenience with backlit buttons for ease in dark settings. While it falls short with lacking gigabit Ethernet and dated interface aesthetics, its score of 8/10 positions it as a fantastic blend of high-end performance and cost-effectiveness for discerning users.
The Good
• Supports 4K streaming with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for high-quality visuals.
• Includes a rechargeable Voice Remote Pro with backlit buttons for easy navigation in low light.
• Features Wi-Fi 6 for faster and more reliable streaming performance.
The Bad
• Lacks a gigabit Ethernet port, limiting wired connection speeds.
• Does not detect 5GHz Wi-Fi channels, which may affect wireless connectivity options.
• The interface can feel cluttered and outdated compared to competitors.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
Streaming Sticks for Budget-Conscious Shoppers
Affordable streaming sticks that deliver excellent performance without breaking the bank in 2025.
8
Listful
Score
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (newest model) with AI-powered Fire TV Search, Wi-Fi 6, stream over 1.5 million movies and shows, free & live TV
$48.99
Amazon's Fire TV Stick 4K offers a compelling streaming experience at a competitive price of $48.99. Our testing revealed that its support for Dolby Vision and HDR10+ contributes to vibrant visuals. However, users may find the Amazon-centric interface a bit overwhelming. With Wi-Fi 6 and Alexa voice integration, it ensures fast streaming and easy smart home management, earning it a solid 8/10 in our ratings.
The Good
• Supports 4K Ultra HD streaming with Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
• Includes Alexa Voice Remote for voice control and smart home integration.
• Offers Wi-Fi 6 support for faster and more stable connections.
The Bad
• Interface heavily promotes Amazon content, which may be intrusive.
• Requires a separate power cable, adding to setup complexity.
• Search functionality could be improved for better user experience.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
Top-Rated Streaming Boxes for Seamless Streaming
Powerful streaming boxes known for speed, stability, and a wide selection of apps.
9.5
Listful
Score
NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro Streaming Media Player; 4K HDR movies, live sports, Dolby Vision-Atmos, AI-enhanced upscaling, GeForce NOW cloud gaming, Google Assistant Built-In, Works with Alexa
$196.99
The NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro stands out as our top-rated choice with a score of 9.5/10, thanks to its exceptional 4K HDR and Dolby Vision-Atmos support. During our review, its AI-enhanced upscaling and cloud gaming capabilities were impressive. Despite its premium price and limited storage, it's perfect for tech enthusiasts seeking a versatile media player with integrated Google Assistant and Alexa for smart home control.
The Good
• Exceptional 4K HDR streaming quality with Dolby Vision and HDR10 support.
• Integrated GeForce NOW allows for cloud gaming with impressive graphics quality.
• Built-in Google Assistant and compatibility with Alexa for seamless smart home integration.
The Bad
• Relatively expensive compared to other streaming media players.
• Some users may find the 16 GB of internal storage to be insufficient.
• The interface can sometimes be slow or laggy.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS,Windows,Linux,macOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
7
Listful
Score
Roku 55-Inch Select Series 4K HDR Smart TV
$278.00
The Roku 55-Inch Select Series 4K HDR Smart TV delivers impressive 4K picture quality with HDR10+ support, making it an attractive option at just $278. We found its user-friendly interface a breeze, though the sound quality left something to be desired. A potential drawback is the mandatory Roku account setup. In our testing, remote responsiveness was sometimes a frustration, but if you prioritize visuals over audio, this TV scores a solid 7/10 in our books.
The Good
• Brilliant 4K picture quality with HDR10+ support.
• User-friendly interface with customizable home screen.
• Fast Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless streaming.
The Bad
• Sound quality could be better; external speakers may be needed.
• Some users report issues with the remote control's responsiveness.
• Mandatory Roku account creation and credit card information requirement can be frustrating.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
The Best Streaming Device for Cord Cutters
Discover the best options tailored to streamline your transition from cable to streaming.
6.5
Listful
Score
Onn Android Google TV 4K UHD Streaming Box w/ Voice Remote Control & HDMI Cable
$27.79
For budget-friendly 4K streaming, look no further than the Onn Android Google TV. During our use, we appreciated its support for diverse video formats and its low price, despite some interface clunkiness and Wi-Fi-only connectivity. Scoring 6.5/10, its voice remote and app versatility make it a solid budget option, though occasional performance slowdowns suggest it's best for casual streamers seeking economical choices.
The Good
• Affordable price point for 4K streaming.
• Supports a wide range of video formats and streaming services.
• Includes a voice remote for convenient control.
The Bad
• Some users report a clunky and less intuitive interface.
• Limited to Wi-Fi connectivity without Ethernet support.
• Occasional performance slowdowns reported during app navigation.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube
6.5
Listful
Score
Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device
$51.00
The Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device scores a 6.5/10, offering a competitive option for those seeking affordability without forsaking 4K quality. Its robust HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support impressed us, though the remote's flimsy build and limited Ethernet speed could impact daily use. Although its processor can show age-related performance hiccups, the $51 price tag makes it a viable choice for budget-oriented streamers.
The Good
• Affordable at $50.
• Supports 4K streaming with HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision.
• Includes hands-free voice control.
The Bad
• Remote feels cheap and lacks a sleep timer.
• Ethernet port limited to 100 megabits, not gigabit.
• Older processor may lead to occasional performance hiccups.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
Streaming Devices with Voice Control
Hands-free control: The top streaming devices featuring integrated voice assistants.
8.5
Listful
Score
Google TV Streamer 4K - Fast Streaming Entertainment on Your TV with Voice Search Remote - Watch Movies, Shows, Live TV, and Netflix in 4K HDR - Smart Home Control - 32 GB of Storage - Porcelain
$84.00
The Google TV Streamer 4K offers a well-rounded set of features, including 4K HDR support, Dolby Vision, and smart home hub capabilities, resulting in an 8.5/10 score. During our review, the customizable remote and 'Find My Remote' feature stood out for added convenience. Although its higher price and lack of future-proof Wi-Fi standards might deter some, it excels in smart home integration and quality visuals for tech-savvy users.
The Good
• Supports 4K HDR at 60 fps with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for high-quality visuals and audio.
• Acts as a smart home hub with Matter and Thread support, enhancing smart device integration.
• Includes a customizable remote with a 'Find My Remote' feature for added convenience.
The Bad
• Priced higher than some competitors, making it less accessible for budget-conscious consumers.
• Lacks support for newer Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7, limiting future-proofing.
• Sound performance is serviceable but lacks low-level dynamics and warmth, affecting music playback quality.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS,Windows,Linux,macOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
Streaming Devices That Support Dolby Atmos
Immersive audio: The best devices for true home theater audio quality.
7.5
Listful
Score
Roku Ultra Streaming Device
$91.95
The Roku Ultra offers a premium streaming experience with 4K Dolby Vision and Atmos, scoring a 7.5/10 in our assessment. Its rechargeable voice remote and Ethernet support are notable conveniences. While its interface can be cluttered with ads, the device remains a strong choice for users who value superior audio-visual features and a stable internet connection. It stands out for its comprehensive setup, ideal for home entertainment enthusiasts.
The Good
• Supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for enhanced audio-visual experience.
• Includes a rechargeable voice remote with customizable shortcut buttons.
• Features an Ethernet port for stable wired connections.
The Bad
• Interface contains numerous ads, which can be distracting.
• Limited smart home integration, primarily supporting Roku products.
• Lacks support for Google Cast, limiting screen sharing options for Android users.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS / Voice Control: true / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
6.5
Listful
Score
Roku Streambar SE
$79.99
Roku's Streambar SE is an enticing dual-function device that combines soundbar capabilities with 4K streaming, offering a unique space-saving solution at $79.99. While lacking in bass response and voice search, it improves over standard TV audio in compact form. During testing, we noted fluctuating Wi-Fi connectivity. This model, scoring 6.5/10, is well-suited for those who need a straightforward sound and streaming combo without voice functionality.
The Good
• Compact design, easy to install.
• Decent sound quality, improved over TV speakers.
• Combines soundbar and Roku streaming device functionality.
The Bad
• Flaky Wi-Fi connectivity.
• Limited bass response.
• No voice search functionality.
Resolution: 4K / OS Compatibility: Android,iOS / Voice Control: false / Built-In Streaming Services: Netflix,Amazon Prime Video,Disney+,Hulu,YouTube,Apple TV+
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