

But if that's the only thing you want out of it, opt for the $30, casting-only model. ★ Alternative: If you really want to use a Chromecast for casting videos or pictures from your phone to your TV, you can still do that too. You may have to regularly clear the cache yourself, which is annoying. The only downside? It has little storage, so you run the risk of running out of room. Plus you can search with your voice via Google Assistant, which can also control your smart home devices or answer questions. It makes finding something to watch a faster and easier process. You can browse and search across platforms, so you can find where a specific title is streaming or look for something broader, like just for comedies.

#ROKI STICK UPGRADE#
Google TV got an upgrade too, and its interface is now nicer than Roku's.
#ROKI STICK ANDROID#
It adds a remote-a much-needed companion-plus built-in Google TV (formerly Android TV), so you don't ever have to touch your phone to watch TV if you don't want to. The newest Chromecast ( 8/10, WIRED recommends) is a great streaming device. Roku connects to all major streaming services. Roku products are frequently discounted, too.

You can also still buy the older Streaming Stick Plus ($44)-it's still a good device. ★ Another Streaming Stick: The Streaming Stick 4K ($46) is also new and a little cheaper, and its remote doesn't have hands-free voice control, if you aren't interested in that. You'll have to charge the remote, which I don't particularly love, but you do save money on replacing batteries. Remote lost in the couch cushions? Just ask Roku where it is to activate a beep. Say “Hey Roku, play Succession on HBO Max” without lifting a finger (yep, Roku now supports HBO Max!). There's a slider on the side of the remote that, if pushed to the on position, allows you to talk to your remote from anywhere in the room. The Plus version has a new, hands-free remote. Roku's interface is the easiest to navigate, and all the major streaming services are there. We think most people will like the stick-it's one of Roku's cheapest devices, and this updated version is faster and comes with a longer-range wireless receiver it also plugs right into your TV's HDMI port, so you won't see it dangling. The Streaming Stick Plus has held our top spot for years, and the newer 4K Plus is a fresh favorite.
