Best Streaming Device Deals

What Is the Cheapest Streaming Device for TV?

We have an exceptionally robust roundup of the best streaming devices for TV on the market, covering all the major manufacturers. If you don’t need high-definition video, the cheapest streaming device on the market is typically the Roku Express. Released in 2016, it’s not as fast or as powerful as newer models but gets the job done and typically retails for around $20.

What Is the Best Cheapest Streaming Device for Sling?

Sling TV is a digital live TV service that gives you access to many popular channels starting at $40 a month. In our review, we praised its good selection and flexible subscription options. Many streaming devices work with Sling TV, including units from Apple TV, Chromecast, Fire TV, and Roku. The company recommends their proprietary AirTV Mini plug-in box, which you can get for free when you pre-pay for two months of Sling service.

What Is the Cheapest 4K Streaming Device?

We lab test and review a wide variety of streaming devices from all the major manufacturers. Typically, 4K streaming devices come it at around $40 to $50, including the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, which we rate highly for speed and compatibility. However, the consistently cheapest 4K streaming device comes from Walmart’s house brand onn. Their Google TV 4K Streaming Box typically retails for $20, and although it’s a little bulkier and slower it certainly works fine.

Do You Have to Buy a Streaming Device for Each TV?

You do not need to buy a streaming device for each TV in your house. In our rundown of how to add services to a Roku device, we go into the nuts and bolts of setting up one of the most popular streaming sticks. Once you’ve entered in your credentials for Netflix, Hulu, and whatever other subscriptions you have, they’re stored in the device and you can unplug it and plug it in to other TVs without any additional setup. One device can be plugged into any display with a HDMI port.

Best Streaming Device for a Low Budget in 2024 Under $50

Nearly every plug-and-play streaming device on the market comes in at under $50 now, with the exception of models like the Amazon Fire Cube that have built-in speakers. From there, the question becomes what platform you like best. Right now, our all-around best low budget pick is the Roku Streaming Stick 4K, which retails for $39.99 but is often on sale. In our review, we said that it “gives you access to loads of different apps and services.”

What Are the Main Kinds of Streaming Media Devices?

Dedicated streaming devices are divided into two types. Stick-style streaming devices typically plug directly into a TV’s HDMI port without an extra cable. They’re smaller in form factor making them a good pick when space is at a premium. Plug-in boxes are larger, attach to the display with an additional cord, and often include additional ports like an Ethernet input for wired connection to your home network.

The absolute minimum speed you need to have in your wireless or wired Internet network is 5MBps for streaming video. That’s sufficient for standard definition TV or movies, but you can expect buffering and interruptions if anything else is using bandwidth. Ideally, you’ll be able to tap at least 25MBps, which is what the FCC defines as “high-speed” broadband. That’s the minimum you’ll need for 4K or HDR video.

Which Streaming Device Is Right for Me?

In general, most streaming devices are going to be pretty similar in terms of functionality, with access to the major and niche services available. Where they differentiate themselves is typically in their operating systems and added features. If you already have Amazon Echo devices, a Fire TV stick makes sense to tie into that ecosystem. Apple or Google smart home users have the same options. For even more details, read our in-depth media streaming buyer’s guide.