Best Media Streaming Devices of 2014 - NewsWatch Review

Comparing the Google Chromecast, Apple TV, and Roku Streaming Stick

 

What if you could watch any movie (or hear any music) you wanted by plugging in a single device into your TV or computer? No more loading discs, USB drives, CD/DVDs. Sounds great, right?

 

Media steaming devices have made this possible, although right now the content is limited. Content is stored on the cloud and made available for streaming anytime you want. There are basically two types of media streaming devices - devices which stream content from the web and devices that stream content from your media collection. Here we will discuss the top three web-based media streaming devices and how they fare against one another.

 

 

Google Chromecast ($35.00)

 

CNET calls the Google Chromecast media streaming device 'dirt cheap' ($35.00). It is a USB like device for your TV that streams content from YouTube, Google Music, HBO Go, Pandora, Google Movies & TV. You can control the content with your Android or iOS tablet.

 

There is no doubt that the device punches above its weight. However, there is no remote which means you will always have to keep a smartphone or a tablet close by. Even though we love the Chromecast, if you are willing to spend just $15 more, we would suggest that you go for a Roku Streaming Stick.

 

 

Apple's Apple TV ($92.99)

 

At $92.99, the Apple TV is pricy but if you want to access content from the iTunes store, Apple TV is your only option. You can also stream content from YouTube, Hulu Plus, Netflix, HBO Go, and dozens of other sites and portals. You can also stream content (movies, music, games) directly from your mobile device and computer to your television screen.  But the Apple TV works best with other Apple devices like the iPad and iPhone. It also comes with a dedicated remote control and has a fast and simple user interface, something expected of Apple devices.  If you’re an Apple user, the Apple TV is a great option.

 

 

Roku Streaming Stick

 

There are four varieties in the Roku media streaming device - the Roku Streaming Stick, Roku 1, Roku 2 and Roku 3. We will discuss the Roku Streaming Stick here.  The Roku Streaming Stick is a USB like device but it has more functionality than Google's Chromecast. It is retailing on Amazon for $49.99. It can stream 1500 and counting entertainment channels including popular ones like Pandora, Netflix, YouTube, HBO Go, Hulu Plus. It also comes with a dedicated remote control.The downside is, it can take a while for some channels to load and the remote control does not have a headphone jack (there is a headphone jack on Roku 2 and Roku 3 remotes).

 

 

Final recommendations

 

Our final pick is the Roku Streaming Stick.  It’s more expensive than Chromecast but $50 cheaper than Apple TV.  However, each device has advantages and disadvantages. Many people own multiple devices and use them for different purposes.  Enjoy streaming content!