Amazon Fire TV is just the latest debut in several streaming devices on the market allowing you to stream content from video applications like Netflix, Hulu Plus, and Amazon Prime directly to your TV. To hear Amazon speak of it, you’re destined to cut the cord with your cable or satellite company after investing in one. If you’d like to cut back on your cable bill or eliminate it, here’s what you need to know about the streaming devices on the market, what you can watch – and what you’ll miss – if you make the switch to streaming.
I don’t watch many prime-time shows anymore, so it wasn’t a big loss when I canceled our satellite TV. For those of you who can’t imagine missing an episode of your favorite shows as soon as they air, depending entirely on streaming services may not be ideal.
Streaming online content directly to your TV is easily achieved with the use of a set-top box or device that attaches to your TV and utilizes your wireless home network to download content. The main players in the device game are Amazon Fire TV ($40), Roku 3 ($45), Apple TV ($129) and Google Chromecast ($50). Choosing the best device for your TV viewing depends greatly on the shows you want to watch.
Amazon Fire: Streaming Your Favorite Content
Before you invest in a streaming device, take a second look at the components you already own. Most gaming consoles (Xbox, PS4, etc.), as well as many newer TVs and blu-ray players offer access to certain streaming apps, though not always for free. You may have already have all you need to stream content.
The primary source of streaming prime time TV shows is Hulu Plus ($7.99/mo), and it’s supported by all the major streaming devices. It offers current and prior seasons of shows from ABC, NBC, Fox, PBS and many other channels like Comedy Central and Nickelodeon. Current episodes of CBS shows are largely absent, but you can watch recently aired content online at the CBS website.
All the major streaming devices also offer access to Netflix for prior seasons of TV shows and a large library of movies. A subscription to Netflix’s streaming-only service is currently $7.99/mo, but the company has disclosed plans to increase prices by $1-2/month this summer.
Amazon Fire TV Stick (Price: Around $40)
The Amazon Fire TV Stick remains one of the most popular streaming devices, offering seamless access to Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and a range of apps, all while retaining an affordable price. Updated models even support 4K streaming, and with prices starting around $40, it’s accessible to nearly every budget. The newer models bring enhanced voice search through Alexa, meaning you can find content, control playback, and even manage other smart home devices. For those committed to Amazon’s ecosystem, this choice could be all you need to replace cable.
Roku Streaming Stick (Price: $45 – $60)
Roku has long been a popular choice for those who prioritize simplicity. Starting around $45 for HD models and reaching $60 for 4K versions, the Roku Streaming Stick remains a leading choice due to its easy navigation and no-nonsense design. The device supports a broad range of streaming services, rivaling Amazon Fire for app access. Roku’s remote includes dedicated buttons for popular apps, which users often find convenient. Roku’s unbiased content search across services also means users won’t encounter prioritized results like they might on Amazon Fire.
Google Chromecast with Google TV (Price: Around $50)
For those who love a customized experience, the Google Chromecast with Google TV, priced around $50, offers a fresh approach. With a user interface based on content rather than apps, it’s perfect for discovering new shows and movies. Chromecast’s unique “For You” recommendations adapt to user preferences over time, making it a favorite among those who enjoy varied content. Compared to Amazon Fire, Chromecast leans on Google’s ecosystem, integrating with Assistant and Google Photos. This device is a solid alternative if you’re already using Google’s other products.
Apple TV 4K (Price: $129 – $179)
At the higher end, the Apple TV 4K remains a premium choice. Starting at $129 for the standard model and going up to $179 for the 128GB version, it’s suited for Apple users who value seamless integration with other Apple devices. With Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for enhanced picture quality, the Apple TV 4K is known for its pristine visuals. Like Amazon Fire, it also features voice control, although via Siri. Apple TV also offers Apple Arcade for casual gaming, a feature not found on most devices, making it a multifaceted media hub.
What To Choose? Amazon Fire or Something Else?
When it comes to cutting cable, each device has its strengths. The Amazon Fire TV Stick shines for those who enjoy Amazon’s ecosystem and seek budget-friendly options with Alexa voice control. Meanwhile, Roku provides a straightforward approach to streaming with no hidden agendas, ideal for those who prioritize simplicity. Chromecast’s customization and integration with Google’s ecosystem make it a favorite for Google users, and Apple TV’s high-quality experience appeals to Apple enthusiasts.
Ultimately, choosing the right device depends on your budget and the ecosystem you prefer. But with the Amazon Fire devices starting at $40, it’s easy to see why many consider it the ultimate cable alternative.
Going Analog
While many streaming devices support online news sources like Fox News and nationwide news clips from NBC and CBS, canceling standard TV may mean a loss of local news. And what about those TV shows you’re missing? Here’s a little secret that may surprise you: rabbit-ears still work. All the major network channels are broadcast in HD, and you may actually have a better picture viewing them through an antenna than through your cable box. No kidding.
Ultra Thin Indoor HDTV Antenna (around $23) is an inexpensive option, offering a multi-directional range of up to 25 miles. If you’re further out and need a larger range, check out the ClearStream 2 Long Range Indoor/Outdoor DTV Antenna (ranging from $39 to $199), with a range of over 50 miles. Positioning your antenna is key to making this work well for you, so try multiple spots around the room (or consider roof mounting options) for the strongest signal.
Sports fans should note that watching the game on a streaming device is most often accomplished using sports apps supported by the device, many of which require a monthly fee. Amazon Fire TV, Roku, and Apple TV all offer access to ESPN and NBA League Pass. Roku and Apple TV also give you MLB.TV and NHL Gamecenter.
About The Author: Andrea Eldridge is CEO and co-founder of Nerds On Call, a computer repair company that specializes in on-site and online service for homes and businesses. Andrea is the writer of a weekly column, Nerd Chick Adventures in The Record Searchlight. She prepares TV segments for and appears regularly on CBS, CW and FOX on shows such as Good Day Sacramento, More Good Day Portland, and CBS 13 News, offering viewers technology and lifestyle tips. See Andrea in action at callnerds.com/andrea/.
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