Digitally streaming movies and television shows is a trend that caught on fast and has shown no sign of slowing down. While there is no shortage of content to stream these days, there are many services competing for the consumer’s attention.
With so many services available, how does a customer choose? While that decision is largely depends on what viewers hope to get out of their entertainment package, here are the most popular streaming devices a customer can choose from.
Apple TV
For those who swear by Apple products, Apple’s slick, jet-black Apple TV box is one of the best offerings around. It grants users access to a myriad of 1080p HD content ranging from Netflix to Vimeo to Hulu Plus. Additionally, it allows users to stream any content they have already purchased from the iTunes store.
Users can effortlessly stream content from their iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad or Mac to their television through a wireless network. In sticking with its intuitive design, the Apple TV is easy to navigate, and can even mirror on the big screen the content on a user’s Mac, iPhone, or iPad.
The service is also equipped with HDMI, Micro-USB, Ethernet and an optical audio output.
Google Chromecast
For a low price of $35, users can purchase Google’s compact, HDMI Chromecast that will allow them to quickly stream an assortment of content from Netflix and Hulu Plus to YouTube and Google Play or any other forthcoming platforms.
The device is roughly the same size as a flash drive, and it can be plugged into a user’s television HDMI port. Then it connects to the Wi-Fi network and launches any supported apps using Android or iOS.
But perhaps because this device is on the cheaper end, it lacks the ability to do much more than what is already mentioned.
Roku 3
The most comprehensive incarnation of the Saratoga-based company, Roku 3 sports more than 750 channels, has an intuitive cross-platform search utility and has a simple navigation system. Of course, it also houses the ability to stream Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon, but it exceeds the competition with its live TV offerings as well as built in Pandora and Spotify apps.
It is not by any means ready to overthrow a cable or a satellite box, but it does offer users the most bang for their buck when it comes to price and ability. However, it is not entirely compatible with Apple products. Thus, those looking to utilize their Apple products via a digital device should probably consider something else either in place of or in addition to the Roku 3 player.
Roku LT
If Roku 3 is too advanced, Roku LT is a no-frills device based on the same great functionality as its counterpart. The device lacks USB ports and an Ethernet, but for those looking solely for a device to stream Internet content as well as music services like Pandora and Spotify, this device is definitely a quality option.
Polished and responsive, Roku LT’s interface is easy to use. However, like Roku 3, it lacks much compatibility with Apple products.
These four devices are by far the best options available for those looking to seamlessly stream content to their main television. And when combined with ways to save on TV here, viewers can create the perfect entertainment combination.
Image Source: www.applegazette.com
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Ben Greenwood
Ben is the founder and editor of TechDrink. A huge fan of technology and social media, he has been blogging on those and many other subjects for well over five years. You can follow him in many places, including Twitter, Facebook and Google+.
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