4K TV owners unite! More and more apps and streaming services are launching 4K content and home internet speeds are finally fast enough to keep up with the bandwidth demand. For easy access to 4K content, you'll most likely want a 4K streaming device. Here, we break down a few different options so you can find what's right for your home.
Simple 4K content now.
If you're the type of person who simply wants to kick back and flip on some 4K Netflix or Youtube, there are several simple options that may be right in your wheelhouse. The Chromecast Ultra is a quick and relatively inexpensive option for streaming 4K and HDR content from your phone, tablet or computer. Another player in this realm is the Roku Streaming Stick.
Middle of the road 4K.
Speaking of the Roku, there is a premium option with additional features and functions. The Roku Premiere+ is similar in form to the Premiere, but adds HDR capabilities for that extra burst of color as well as a headphone jack for private listening. The Roku Ultra is similar to the Premiere+ but also features voice search functionality and a lost remote finder so you'll never search the couch cushions again. Amazon's Fire TV offers a simple and intuitive menu with a voice search function powered by Alexa.
For the gamers and elitists.
If you want ultrafast speeds and you're interested in apps and games, then the NVIDIA SHIELD Android console could be the answer. It lets you stream 4K HDR movies and TV shows and play PC-quality games via GeForce NOW or Android streaming. The 16GB of internal memory stores your favorite multimedia files. Plus, you can access content quickly with the voice search feature.
4K alternatives.
While streaming devices make the viewing process more streamlined, a console or player can also help you access the same quality content (or better) with additional features. The Xbox One S streams 4K HDR with the obvious gaming benefits of a major console. Additionally, if you're more interested in physical Blu-rays and unparalleled quality, then the Samsung 4K Blu-ray player and Philips 4K Blu-ray player should be your go-to.