

You can watch a show on your own using your smartphone or computer, as well as port the content wirelessly to your TV and watch it with others. If you’re a binge watcher, listener, gamer, or reader, adding the best media streaming device feeds your entertainment needs. Even better, streaming devices aren’t just for video – most also allow you to listen to music through streaming services, view your online photos and more.The internet gives us access to a lot of great content-television shows, movies, online games, podcasts, sports, music, and more. You will also find a mix of both live streaming services and on-demand services available on your device.

Some channels require their own paid subscription, while others are free.

Most streaming devices also allow you to browse a huge range of additional channels that you can add to access different content. The device then transmits the media over your WiFi connection and displays it on your TV, allowing you to enjoy it on a larger screen. With these, you play your desired media on another device such as a laptop or tablet. The content you subscribed to will now stream through your television set.Ī “casting” device (like Google Chromecast and others) works a little bit differently. Then you connect it to your home WiFi service (or your modem/router). Most of them are simple to set up - you connect the device to your television with an HDMI cable (or, in the case of a “stick” device, directly into the HDMI port). Streaming devices generally work the same way, though the size and shape may vary. The control now sits with you, the viewer. This means there are simply more specialized options out there for just about any interest, style, or demographic group. What’s more, producers are now able to create more diverse shows for a huge range of viewer categories, not only appealing to the masses.
Streaming media player plus#
The choices are almost limitless - you can have streaming only, streaming plus cable or satellite, or streaming plus antenna. You can now bundle your own favorite shows, channels and interests, curating a personalized collection of video content. With streaming TV providers like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu, all that has changed. If you already own one of these, it’s worth considering as it may save you buying an additional piece of equipment. Many Blu-ray players and newer video game consoles also act as streaming devices, with a few limitations. When you turn them on, they are fully configured, making these devices a convenient option. These handy devices typically come pre-loaded with dozens of the most popular streaming "channels" (essentially apps), and you can add more when you want to. And, as long as your TV has an HDMI port, you won’t need to buy a whole new television. In many cases, you won’t need a separate remote or added device, since it’s all contained within the smart TV.ĭedicated streaming media devices, like an Apple TV or Roku, offer an impressive range of options for viewing content on your TV. Smart TVs are essentially a television with streaming apps built in. Streaming media devices connect your TV or home theater to the internet, allowing you to stream content (video, music, movies and sports) through a streaming TV service provider or app.
