The Insider’s Guide to Choosing and Using a Streaming Device

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A streaming device is a valuable way of expanding your options for watching content, giving you more options and apps. Some content requires a subscription to a service such as Netflix or Amazon Prime, but you can also use streaming devices to view content from your smartphone, such as photos or videos you have taken.

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What Device Is Used for Streaming?

There are numerous different devices available for streaming. The most popular devices are:

• Apple TV
• Amazon Fire TV Stick range
• Roku Streaming Stick range
• Chromecast

It’s also possible to use game consoles including the Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5 to stream content via your TV.

There’s no one perfect streaming device out there. Each device has its own benefits and drawbacks; some work better with specific streaming services but most will work with all services.

How Do Streaming Devices Work?

A streaming device is a small computer dedicated to streaming content through your TV. It connects to the TV via an HDMI cable and uses your internet connection via ethernet or Wi-Fi.

Explicitly designed with streaming in mind, their operating systems are limited to offering apps relevant to their purpose. Apps include Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and other popular streaming services. A remote, app, or voice control helps you negotiate the menus.

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Do You Need a Streaming Device if You Have a Smart TV?

A smart TV offers similar functionality to a streaming device, but a dedicated solution can work better, especially if your smart TV is aging. Here’s a look at why.

• A streaming device can be faster. Depending on your smart TV, a streaming device can often be faster and more responsive than using your TV. So if you’re impatient, this is a good solution.
• More options . Some TVs don’t get updates as frequently as streaming devices, which offer more options and functionality.
• Voice control support . Some smart TVs offer voice control support, but it probably doesn’t if your TV is older. A streaming device typically provides voice control support which can be helpful for those with mobility issues.
• A streaming device can be simpler to use . TV operating systems can often be quite cluttered to browse. A streaming device is designed with one purpose, making it easier to navigate.
• Portability . A streaming device isn’t dependent on one TV. So if you travel often, you can take it with you to use elsewhere.

If you have a smart TV and can stream the content you want without any trouble, there is no reason to buy a streaming device.

Is Netflix a Streaming Device?

No. Netflix is a streaming service . A streaming service is accessible via a streaming device or smart TV if you have a subscription. There isn’t a dedicated Netflix streaming device. Instead, you can buy one of many different streaming devices that offers a Netflix app.

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FAQ

• What is the difference between a router and streaming device?
  While a streaming device lets you stream shows, movies, and other media to a TV, a router is for home networking . A router facilitates communication between devices on your network, such as computers and other connected devices, and the internet.
• What is 4K on a streaming device?
  4K resolution refers to 3840 x 2160 pixels or 4096 x 2160 pixels. Many streaming sources, such as Netflix, Fandango at Home, and Amazon, provide 4K content. However, your streaming device and TV must also support 4K media.

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