The best streaming devices for watching Netflix, Prime Video and more on your TV
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We've tried and tested the best streaming devices, from under £40, to make your TV smart and give you access to online content. Copy link. twitter. facebook. whatsapp. email. Although BBC iPlayer was one of the first streaming services to launch, it was Netflix that really kicked off the streaming craze. There’s now an abundance of streaming services offering a huge range of content, from Apple TV+ through to Disney+. It’s an exciting time for TV entertainment as there’s always something to watch.
To get to that content, you need a TV streaming device. While many newer televisions come with streaming services built-in, it’s often simpler and easier to access streaming services using a dedicated streaming device. You might also hear them referred to as a streaming box or dongle, because they come in many forms. I’m going to explain the choices so you can choose the best streaming device for you.
“These devices offer the convenience of having a central hub to view everything with, often, a better viewing experience than the built-in options through smart TVs,” explains Elizabeth Hayes, Android and Smart Home Category Lead at John Lewis. “We’ve seen sales increase, with the Amazon Fire TV Stick proving amongst our bestsellers.”.
Other names you might recognise include Roku, Apple TV and Google Chromecast. All these devices can access a range of streaming services, including UK catch-up services such as iPlayer which are free to view. I’ve been testing and writing about streaming devices for the past decade. You can read my reviews of this year’s best further down, followed by the answers to some frequently asked questions. But if you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick look at my top five:.
