8 best streaming devices: Roku, Amazon fire TV stick and Chromecast media players compared
The IndependentSign up to our free weekly newsletter for insider tips and product reviews from our shopping experts Sign up for our free IndyBest email Sign up for our free IndyBest email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy You might think your smart TV is the best media streaming device you already own, but while most modern televisions support popular apps like Netflix and BBC iPlayer, having a dedicated streaming stick or box comes with some big advantages. Having a separate plug-in streaming device like the Amazon Fire TV stick or the Roku streaming stick means you can easily upgrade your TV’s capabilities and performance without having to replace the entire set. The best streaming devices also come with their own dedicated smart remotes, which can roll your existing TV and soundbar remotes into one, reducing clutter and simplifying your TV watching experience. On the other side of the fence, Android-based streaming devices like the Amazon Fire TV stick, Nvidia Shield and Roku are more open platforms and support VPNs.