The Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen) is Amazon’s new streaming stick for 2023 but is it worth buying? We take a closer look at the new player.
Category: Devices
As streaming has increased in popularity, so has the selection of streaming platforms, with Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Google TV, and Roku just a few of the options now available. With so many streaming platforms and players to choose between, picking the right one can be as important as choosing the right streaming services.
TV and streaming player FAQs
Below are answers to some of the more commonly asked questions about streaming devices, including smart TVs and streaming players.
What is a streaming player?
Streaming players make it possible to stream movies, shows, and more over the internet. Generally speaking, streaming players are most commonly thought of small boxes that connect to a TV. However, many devices act as a streaming player, including smart TVs, game consoles, and more.
Why do I need a streaming player?
The most common reason why you might need a streaming player is that you’re existing devices don’t have any smart functionality. However, you may also need a streaming player if you want to access apps on a different operating system. A last, but just as important, reason why you might need a streaming player is to get an upgrade in performance and a more reliable streaming experience in general.
Do I need a streaming player if I have a smart TV or game console?
No, not necessarily. If you already have a smart TV, by definition, you already have a streaming device. As long as the TV can connect to the internet it is highly likely to have the ability to download apps. The same is true with game consoles, and especially modern ones like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S/X. If the smart TV or console is an older model, then it is possible that it might not be supported anymore.
How do I choose a streaming player?
The best way to choose a streaming player is to decide on what you want from it. For example, if you only want to access Netflix and other streaming apps, a cheap streaming player will work just fine and save you money. If, for example, you also want to access apps and content you normally access on an iPhone, then an Apple TV player is probably going to be the best option. In general, factors to take into consideration when choosing a streaming player include the price, design, operating system, app support, and 4K.
What are some of the best streaming players?
There are a wide variety of streaming players to now choose from, but the Apple TV 4K, Chromecast with Google TV HD/4K, Fire Stick 4K, Fire TV Cube, Nvidia Shield TV, Roku Streaming Stick+ and Roku Ultra are some of the best streaming players in our opinion.
Bravia Core is a streaming app that’s exclusively available on Bravia XR TVs and Xperia phones, making it a perk of owning a Sony device.
Our review takes a closer look at the Onn Google TV 4K Streaming Box to see if Walmart’s new 4K player is worth the $20 asking price.
Hulu’s Live TV content is available on many popular devices but it’s still worth checking your smart TV or streaming player before signing up.
Looking to buy a new Fire TV player and not sure whether to get a Stick or a Cube? Here’s a look at their differences and main selling points.
The latest Fire TV Cube will be a good streaming addition to your home, but Amazon Prime members will inevitably reap the most benefits.
With so many different Roku players to choose from, here’s a closer look at their differences and which one best suits which type of buyer.
Paramount+ remains unavailable on Sony’s PlayStation 5 console and it is currently unclear if PS5 app support is even being worked on.
Paramount+ is available to watch on a variety of devices, although there are still some smart TVs, players and other devices missing support.
From the 2007 Apple TV (1st generation) to the 2022 Apple TV 4K (Wi-Fi + Ethernet), the streaming player has come a long way over the years.
Vizio SmartCast TVs remove the need to buy and use a separate streaming player, and there are plenty of live TV services to choose from.
The two new Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) players are very similar, but the differences in specs may make one more suitable than the other.
Apple TV Plus is a good streaming service, and using Android doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the latest Apple exclusive shows and movies.
Chromecast with Google TV (HD) isn’t the best option for every home, but it’s ideal for those looking for a low-cost and easy to use device.
If an Apple TV remote isn’t working properly (or at all) then a reset might help, and the entire process should take less than one minute.
Categories
How To Get Peacock On Your Smart TV
While the Peacock app is available to download on a variety of different smart TVs, some homes may find they can’t get Peacock on their TV.
Paramount+ is available to watch on LG smart TVs but not all models, so it’s worth checking before signing up and paying for a subscription.
Paramount Plus comes with support for a number of platforms and devices, but not every Android TV device can download and use the app.
DirecTV Stream has its own device that subscribers can buy or rent and it might be worth having for some homes. For others, probably not.
Apple TV Plus subscribers can share their subscription with others, and multiple people can watch on different devices at the same time.
