Best Streaming Devices: Buying Guide
Streaming is easily worth it, offering the most convenient way to experience your favorite shows whenever and wherever you want.
If there’s a program you want to watch, there’s probably a streaming service for it. Whether it’s Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO GO, or one of the many other content streaming platforms, there is a wonderful variety of options suitable to your tastes.
But in order to access all the streaming content your heart desires, you need a streaming device.
What is a Streaming Device?
Streaming devices, also known as streaming players, are sleek, portable, and deceptively easy to use. Each device is powered by its unique operating system, unlocking a world of entertainment by simply connecting to your TV.
Just plug your new device into your TV’s HDMI port, connect it to a suitable power source, and set up your WiFi. For the best streaming experience, ensure you have a high-quality wi-fi router that can handle the bandwidth requirements of HD and 4K content.
If your streaming device supports an Ethernet cable, consider using it for a more stable connection. In no time at all, you’ll be enjoying the wonderful world of the latest TV shows and movies!
Some Smart TVs, video game systems, and Blu-ray players have built-in streaming capability, so no extra device is needed.
But what happens if your Smart TV doesn’t have the apps you need, or worse, they’re no longer supported on the TV? As Smart TVs age and streaming services are upgraded, there will be times when certain apps are no longer available on your Smart TV or Blu-ray player.
Why take that chance?
You need a long-term solution to upgrade your streaming experience without the headache of losing access to your favorite services.
Now is the best time to join the cord-cutting revolution. Upgrade your home theater with a new streaming device capable of 4K streaming, like the Roku Express 4K or others, gaining endless access to the best streaming content available.
How to Choose a Streaming Device
How do you select the best streaming device for your entertainment setup?
It can be challenging and confusing to say the least.
That’s why we’ve put together this streaming device buying guide to help you navigate the top picks and take your content streaming to the next level.
We’ll review the following options:
- Google Chromecast
- Roku
- Amazon Fire TV
- Apple TV
- TiVo
Google Chromecast
Simple and low-profile, the Google Chromecast is an absolute workhorse when it comes to streaming media.
Set-up is a breeze: simply plug the Google Chromecast device into your TV’s HDMI port, then connect a power source and enter your WiFi password.
There are no complicated controls or in-app menus, either. In fact, you’ll use your phone’s already familiar apps (such as Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube) as a control interface. If you purchase multiple Chromecasts for multiple TVs, switching from screen to screen is as simple as selecting it on your phone. For some, the phone-as-a-remote feature is a huge benefit, but others prefer a traditional remote.
If you’re a fan of voice commands, Chromecast offers integration with Nest Audio and Google Assistant, turning your device into a smart speaker and enhancing your control over streaming content. Some models also have access to Google TV.
When shopping for a Chromecast, be sure to get the device that matches your TV’s resolution. Depending on your TV, you can choose from 4K or 1080p HD.
Why else should you choose Chromecast? Because even with all these capabilities, it’s worth noting that Chromecast is one of the least expensive TV streaming devices. And with FlexShopper’s rent-to-own Chromecast options, it’s also more convenient and budget-friendly!
Roku
With six different models and a wide range of features, Roku is one of the most prolific and versatile options on the streaming device market.
Consisting of a simple device and remote control setup, Roku runs apps and services — which it refers to as channels — that include most of the major operators on the streaming market today. Hulu, Netflix, Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video, and multiple niche channels serve a variety of interests like sports, movies, news, and international content.
Roku is not just a streaming player; it also offers the innovative Roku Streambar, a device that combines premium audio with streaming capabilities, offering access to The Roku Channel and enhancing your Roku streaming experience with cinematic sound quality.
Keep in mind, however, there is limited availability for live TV. Roku devices typically also don’t allow for voice commands (unless you buy the voice remote), and instead rely on a separate remote control for all functions.
But that simple, intuitive remote has another cool feature — a headphone jack, which is perfect for watching on the big screen without bothering anyone else in your house. Plus, it comes with dedicated buttons for the most popular services, so one click is all it takes to launch them.
Roku recently introduced a feature that allows you to use an app on your phone as a remote, making it a strong rival to Chromecast and Nvidia Shield.
Overall, Roku devices are great options for someone who wants a variety of choices and a simple user experience. If you’re shopping for kids or grandparents, Roku is the easiest streaming device to set up and use.
With FlexShopper, you can rent-to-own Roku streaming devices in 4K or 1080p HD for as low as $2 a week!
Amazon Fire TV
Amazon Fire TV, available in Full HD or 4K, is a bit of a newcomer to the world of streaming devices. Similar in design to the Chromecast, newer Fire TV sticks are equipped with Alexa voice control, the sophisticated voice assistant technology used by Amazon Echo and other Alexa devices, offering users a seamless way to search for content, control playback, and manage smart home devices using just their voice.
A voice remote is also included with Amazon Fire TV. With the Cube version of Amazon Fire TV, the voice feature is front-and-center, but there is a backup remote if you prefer. The Cube, however, lets you use the device for Alexa services even when the TV is off.
Amazon Fire TV has individual apps from your favorite premium channels, with other app options also available to its users. Fire TV tends to highlight Amazon Prime Video content, but you can access plenty of other content across the service.
It’s a good option if you’re already an Amazon Prime member or need something simple and compact. As a Prime member, you can sync all of your Amazon devices and accounts, which makes it easier to access your content from your Amazon Fire TV. Other purchases are stored in your video library and can be accessed from the Fire Stick as well, giving users a bit more versatility in viewing their premium content.
However, the user interface is a bit difficult to navigate, and Amazon’s tendency to self-advertise may be a turn-off for some.
Whether you’re an Amazon Prime member or not, consider picking up Amazon Fire TV and taking home the carefully integrated, voice-activated service as your next streaming device. FlexShopper has the latest Amazon Fire TV streaming devices available for rent-to-own.
Apple TV
Apple TV may be one of the more expensive options on the market, but it is hands-down one of the best streaming devices available today, offering superior picture quality, performance, and a rich selection of apps tailored to all your entertainment needs.
While its user interface is designed similarly to the Amazon Fire TV Cube, Apple TV 4K offers better screen mirroring/casting and acts as more of a media hub than its Amazon counterpart.
In addition to streaming content, users can listen to music, play games (another standout feature), and watch the news. If the Apple TV is HomeKit-enabled, you can control other smart home devices with Apple TV as well.
The device features a remote control and access to the Apple TV app store, plus Siri for voice control, ensuring smooth playback of your favorite content. It’s capable, elegantly designed, and feature-rich. Plus, it has two levels of internal storage capacity to download content right to the device — and Bluetooth connectivity.
The downsides?
Apple TV’s selection of apps is a bit light compared to others, especially Roku and Amazon Fire TV. Another potential drawback is that it runs out of the Apple ecosystem, so Windows or Android TV users may not get as much out of it as Apple users would, although Apple Arcade is available.
Despite these negatives, Apple TV is a good option for higher-quality displays (1080p and 4K available) and for those who want to set up an entertainment/media center with a streaming device at the center. And if you have a large library of content in iTunes already, or you’re a frequent iPhone/iPad user, Apple TV is a no-brainer.
Settled on this brand of streaming device? Rent-to-own Apple TV with FlexShopper today.
TiVo
TiVo is an old name with a brand-new twist.
Like other options, the TiVo streaming device plugs into the back of your TV to stream Ultra HD 4K video content. It features advanced upscaling capabilities alongside support for Dolby Vision HDR, ensuring an unparalleled viewing experience even from lower-resolution sources.
You can use TiVo to access apps and services such as Amazon, Netflix, Google Play, Hulu, and YouTube. Live TV is also available through a service such as Sling TV or your existing cable provider. TiVo also has voice search functionality.
So why choose TiVo?
If you’re not quite ready to cut the cord on cable, TiVo is a great option because it combines the best of both worlds — you can use the DVR feature to record and fast-forward live TV and have all your streaming services on tap as well.
From a user’s perspective, TiVo is the most similar to cable, which may be a benefit for those accustomed to the menus and remotes of more traditional TV services.
Shop FlexShopper’s rent-to-own TiVo streaming devices and unite your streaming services with the classic satisfaction of live TV.
And there you have it — these top streaming devices may seem similar at first glance, but they offer distinctly different experiences.
Which will you choose?
Rent-to-Own Your Streaming Device with FlexShopper
Check out rent-to-own TV streaming devices like Chromecast, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and TiVo, all available in the FlexShopper online Marketplace. Find the flexible weekly-payment solution that works for you and you can own your streaming device in 12 months or less.
In an era where streaming devices transform ordinary TVs into portals of endless entertainment, options like the Roku Ultra, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV stand out. These devices, along with others, offer access to a dazzling array of streaming apps in 4K HDR quality over Wi-Fi, making it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite shows and movies.
Lease-to-own presents a financially savvy pathway to acquiring the best streaming device without upfront costs. This approach not only makes cutting-edge technology immediately accessible but also accommodates budgetary constraints with manageable weekly payments, ensuring you can own your device in 12 months or less.
FlexShopper emerges as the premier choice for those looking to lease-to-own their streaming box. With a user-friendly platform, FlexShopper offers an extensive selection of devices and streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, YouTube TV, Disney+, and HBO GO among others. Simplifying the journey towards ownership with convenient weekly auto payments, FlexShopper ensures you have the best streaming device in your living room without delay.
