Best TV Sticks of 2026

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 29, 2026

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TV sticks are a convenient way to stream your favorite content directly to your television. These small devices plug into your TV's HDMI port and connect to your home Wi-Fi network, giving you access to a variety of streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. TV sticks are often more affordable than smart TVs and offer a wider selection of streaming options. They are also portable, making them a great option for travelers who want to access their favorite shows and movies while on the go. Overall, TV sticks are a great way to upgrade your TV viewing experience without breaking the bank.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
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Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Cover #TOP 2
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus
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Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select Cover #TOP 3
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select
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Top 10 TV Sticks

#TOP 1

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

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Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max streaming device, with AI-powered Fire TV Search, supports Wi-Fi 6E, free & live TV without cable or satellite

The Amazon Fire Stick 4K Max elevates your entertainment experience with a powerful processor, enabling lightning-fast app starts and smooth navigation. Dive into the world of 4K Ultra HD, supported by Dolby Vision and HDR10+, delivering stunning visuals. Immerse yourself in Dolby Atmos audio for a cinematic experience. Enjoy uninterrupted 4K streaming, even with multiple devices connected to your router. With the Fire TV Ambient Experience, showcase museum-quality art and photography on your screen.

What We Like
Easy setup process
Fast streaming performance
Wide app compatibility
Convenient voice control
Portable design
What We Don't Like
Busy home interface
Minor audio setting issues
#TOP 2

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus

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Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Cover
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus (newest model) with AI-powered Fire TV Search, Wi-Fi 6, stream over 1.8 million movies and shows, free & live TV

The Amazon Fire TV 4K Plus offers an enhanced streaming experience designed for 4K TVs, giving you sharper and smoother video quality. It allows you to play popular Xbox games like Call of Duty and Hogwarts Legacy without needing a console, using cloud gaming directly on your TV. With Alexa voice search, finding movies or shows becomes easy—you can search by actor, storyline, or even famous quotes just by speaking. Plus, Wi-Fi 6 support ensures your streaming stays fast and stable, even when multiple devices are connected to your home network. This makes the Fire TV 4K Plus a convenient all-in-one entertainment hub for your living room.

What We Like
Easy and quick setup
Excellent 4K picture quality
Fast, smooth streaming performance
Responsive, convenient remote control
Supports major streaming apps
What We Don't Like
Shortcut buttons too sensitive
Stiff direction buttons for gaming

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select

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Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select (newest model), start streaming in 4K, AI-powered search, and free & live TV

The Amazon Fire TV 4K makes streaming easy and enjoyable by delivering stunning 4K Ultra HD video with vibrant HDR10+ colors, so you get crystal-clear picture quality on your TV. It launches apps quickly, meaning you spend less time waiting and more time watching your favorite shows and movies. This device turns your regular TV into a smart entertainment hub, giving you instant access to thousands of apps and personalized content recommendations. Setting it up is simple—just plug it in and connect to Wi-Fi for smooth streaming. With the Fire TV 4K, you get a fast, smart, and user-friendly way to enjoy endless entertainment.

What We Like
Fast performance
Excellent picture quality
Easy setup
Affordable price
Extensive app selection
What We Don't Like
Sporadic remote responsiveness
App compatibility limitations

Amazon Fire TV Stick HD

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Amazon Fire TV Stick HD (newest model), free and live TV, Alexa Voice Remote, smart home controls, HD streaming

The Amazon Fire TV Stick offers an excellent streaming experience for users. With Full HD streaming, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies with stunning clarity. If you're new to streaming, this device makes it easy to access over 300,000 free movies and TV episodes, giving you plenty of entertainment options. You can simply use your voice to ask Alexa to find and launch programs across various apps, making navigation a breeze. Plus, with access to over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes from popular services like Netflix and Disney+, endless entertainment is just a click away.

What We Like
Easy setup
Intuitive interface
Smooth performance
Voice remote
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Extra features may require subscriptions
Minor slow loading on modest WiFi

Roku Streaming Stick HD 2025

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Roku Streaming Stick HD 2025 — HD Streaming Device for TV with Roku Voice Remote, Free & Live TV

The Roku Streaming Stick makes watching TV simple and enjoyable by giving you access to popular apps and a huge selection of free movies, shows, and live TV. Its slim design means it won’t block other HDMI ports, and you can even power it using your TV’s USB port, cutting down on clutter. You’ll also appreciate using just one remote to control your TV and Roku device, making it easier to adjust volume and power. Plus, its compact size lets you take your favorite shows on the go without needing to log in on another device. This makes the Roku Streaming Stick a great choice for easy, flexible streaming.

What We Like
Easy and quick setup
Clear and smooth streaming quality
User-friendly remote control
Portable and compact design
Reliable and responsive performance
What We Don't Like
Limited buttons on remote for some apps
Occasional lack of enhanced remote support
#TOP 6 Best TV Boxes

Roku Streaming Stick 4K - HDR & Dolby Vision Roku Streaming Device for TV with Voice Remote & Long-Range Wi-Fi - Free & Live TV

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Roku Streaming Stick 4K - HDR & Dolby Vision Roku Streaming Device for TV with Voice Remote & Long-Range Wi-Fi - Free & Live TV Cover
Roku Streaming Stick 4K - HDR & Dolby Vision Roku Streaming Device for TV with Voice Remote & Long-Range Wi-Fi - Free & Live TV

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a great streaming device that offers fast streaming, easy navigation, and access to a massive selection of free, live, and premium TV. It also features a long-range Wi-Fi connection, a voice remote, and support for popular voice assistants. The device is also easy to set up and use, with a simple plug-and-play design and intuitive user interface.

What We Like
Excellent streaming quality
Simple installation and setup
Wide app compatibility
User-friendly interface
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Slight app switching sluggishness
Requires included USB cable
#TOP 7

Roku Streaming Stick Plus 2025

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Roku Streaming Stick Plus 2025 - 4K & HDR Roku Streaming Device for TV with Voice Remote - Free & Live TV

The Roku Streaming Stick Plus lets you enjoy 4K streaming with ease, making it simple to access popular apps and a wide variety of free movies, shows, and live TV. You get stunning 4K picture quality with vibrant HDR colors, so your favorite content looks sharp and colorful. Its slim design means it won’t block other HDMI ports, and you can even power it using your TV’s USB port, reducing clutter with fewer cords. Plus, the convenient voice remote lets you control your TV and Roku device with just one remote, making it easier to search and manage your entertainment quickly.

What We Like
Easy and quick setup
Sharp 4K HDR picture quality
Voice remote with TV control
Wide app and channel selection
Compact and reliable design
What We Don't Like
Some Wi-Fi connection issues initially
Setup may be tricky for elderly users
#TOP 8

Amazon Fire TV Stick, sharp picture quality, fast streaming, free & live TV, Alexa Voice Remote with TV controls

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Amazon Fire TV Stick, sharp picture quality, fast streaming, free & live TV, Alexa Voice Remote with TV controls Cover
Amazon Fire TV Stick, sharp picture quality, fast streaming, free & live TV, Alexa Voice Remote with TV controls

The Amazon Fire TV Stick is a great device for streaming media, with a powerful processor, Alexa Voice Remote, and access to over 1 million movies and TV episodes. It is also easy to set up and use, and has a wide range of apps and games available. The remote is intuitive and has preset buttons for quick access to favorite apps. It also has Dolby Atmos audio for an immersive home theater experience. Overall, the Amazon Fire TV Stick is a great device for streaming media and is highly recommended.

What We Like
Easy setup
Sharp picture quality
Responsive Alexa voice remote
Fast, smooth streaming
Affordable smart TV upgrade
What We Don't Like
Minor app closing issues
Limited app store
#TOP 9

Amazon Fire TV Cube, with AI-powered Fire TV Search, Hands-free streaming device with Alexa, Wi-Fi 6E, 4K Ultra HD

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Amazon Fire TV Cube, with AI-powered Fire TV Search, Hands-free streaming device with Alexa, Wi-Fi 6E, 4K Ultra HD Cover
Amazon Fire TV Cube, with AI-powered Fire TV Search, Hands-free streaming device with Alexa, Wi-Fi 6E, 4K Ultra HD

The Amazon Fire TV Cube is a powerful streaming media player that features Wi-Fi 6E support, 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR, and Dolby Atmos audio. It is the first streaming media player to feature Wi-Fi 6E support and is 2X as powerful as Fire TV Stick 4K Max. It also has a hands-free Alexa with built-in mic and speakers, allowing users to control their compatible TV, soundbar, and receivers with their voice, even from across the room. It also has an HDMI input that’s designed to be used as a cable box passthrough and can upconvert other sources plugged into that HDMI port to a 4k output resolution. It also has privacy protections and controls, including an off button that electronically disconnects the microphones.

What We Like
Fast performance
Hands-free Alexa voice control
Reliable connectivity
Simple setup
Excellent sound quality
What We Don't Like
Premium price
Occasional minor software bugs

Roku Streaming Stick 4K 2021 | Streaming Device

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Roku Streaming Stick 4K 2021 | Streaming Device Cover
Roku Streaming Stick 4K - HDR & D. Vision Roku Streaming Device for TV with Voice Remote & Long-Range Wi-Fi - Free & Live TV (Renewed)

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K 2021 is a powerful streaming device that offers a number of convenient features. With its all-new design, it plugs right into your TV and starts up super-fast, allowing you to start streaming channels like Disney+, Prime Video, HBO Max, Apple TV+, Netflix, Sling, and Hulu in a snap. You can enjoy fast and smooth TV streaming in any room with a strong Wi-Fi connection that is now up to 2x faster. The Roku remote allows you to power up your TV, adjust the volume and control your Roku Streaming Stick without juggling remotes. With voice search and control, you can quickly search, play entertainment, and control your streaming device via the voice remote. This streaming device offers breathtaking picture quality with 4K, D. Vision, and HDR10+ with sharp resolution and vivid color. Upgrade your streaming with a massive selection of free, live, and premium TV, including Roku Originals and 200+ free Live TV channels on The Roku Channel. It works with popular voice assistants such as Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, offering easy voice control.

What We Like
User-friendly interface
Wide app selection
Compact and portable
4K HDR support
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Occasional software hiccups
Minor remote pairing issues
Buying Guide Image

How to Select TV Sticks: The Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Are you tired of constantly switching between your favorite streaming platforms on your television? A TV stick might be the solution you're looking for. These compact devices allow you to access all your favorite streaming apps, live TV, and more on your TV with the simple plug-and-play setup. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for you? Here are a few factors to consider when selecting a TV stick.

Compatibility

First and foremost, make sure the TV stick is compatible with your television. Some TV sticks only work with certain brands or models of TVs, so check the manufacturer's website or the product description before making a purchase. You'll also want to ensure the TV stick is compatible with your home internet connection and the streaming platforms you use. Most TV sticks require a high-speed internet connection, so if you have a slow or spotty connection, you may need to upgrade your internet service or opt for a different device.

Processor and RAM

The processor and RAM of a TV stick play a significant role in its performance. A TV stick with a faster processor and more RAM will be able to handle more demanding tasks, such as streaming 4K content or running multiple apps at once, without any lag or buffering issues. On the other hand, a TV stick with a slower processor and less RAM may struggle with these tasks, resulting in a subpar viewing experience. If you plan on using your TV stick for more than just casual streaming, it's worth investing in a device with a strong processor and plenty of RAM.

Storage

Some TV sticks come with built-in storage, allowing you to store apps and other content directly on the device. This can be convenient if you don't want to use up the storage on your television or if you plan on taking the TV stick with you when you travel. Keep in mind, however, that the storage capacity of TV sticks is typically limited, so you'll want to consider how much space you'll need for your apps and other content. If you think you'll need more space, you may want to opt for a TV stick with expandable storage or one that allows you to connect an external hard drive.

Features and Functions

TV sticks come with a variety of features and functions, so it's important to consider which ones are important to you. Some TV sticks have voice control capabilities, allowing you to search for and play content using just your voice. Others offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to connect a wireless keyboard or game controller. Some even have built-in web browsers or the ability to mirror your phone or tablet screen onto your TV. Decide which features and functions are must-haves for you and look for a TV stick that offers them.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the TV stick. There are options available at a variety of price points, from budget-friendly options to more expensive, high-end devices. Keep in mind that you usually get what you pay for, so a more expensive TV stick may offer better performance and more features. However, if you don't need all the bells and whistles, a cheaper TV stick may suffice. Determine your budget and look for a TV stick that fits within it while still offering the features and performance you need.

Conclusion

Choosing a TV stick can be overwhelming with so many options on the market. By considering compatibility, processor and RAM, storage, features and functions, and price, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect TV stick for your needs. Take the time to research and compare different TV sticks to ensure you get the best value for your money and the best viewing experience possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is there a monthly fee for Firestick?

No, there is no monthly fee to use an Amazon Fire Stick. However, some apps and channels available on the Fire Stick may require subscriptions to access their content.

2. Is it better to use a streaming stick or a smart TV?

Streaming sticks generally offer more options compared to smart TVs. While smart TVs provide access to popular streaming services, streaming sticks like Roku offer additional niche services that may not have dedicated apps on your TV. It's important to note that subscriptions are required for paid services on both streaming sticks and smart TVs.

3. Why would I need a TV stick?

A TV stick, such as the Fire TV Stick, allows you to stream movies, TV shows, live sports, music, and more on your TV. All you need is a TV with an HDMI port and an internet connection. With a TV stick, you can access popular streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and HBO Max.

4. What channels do you get with a Fire Stick?

With a Fire Stick, you can access a variety of channels including movies and TV shows from services like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix, live TV from Pluto TV and Tubi, sports channels like ESPN Plus, news channels like Fox News, kids' channels like PBS Kids Video, and cooking channels like Food Network Kitchen.

5. What is the downside to Firestick?

One downside of the Firestick is that the user interface is considered clunky and can make searching and streaming content a bit more complicated. Voice recognition is available but may not always be reliable.

6. Can you get ABC NBC and CBS on Roku?

Yes, the Roku Channel offers over 60 local news stations, including local affiliates from FOX, CBS, ABC, and NBC. You can access local news from major metropolitan areas and news from across the country on Roku.

Editor's Notes

During our tv stick research, we found 25 tv stick products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,563,767 customer reviews through our big data system to write the tv sticks list. We found that most customers choose tv sticks with an average price of $36.11.

The tv sticks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of tv sticks, including Roku and more. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

TV Sticks Comparison Table

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Brand Amazon Amazon Amazon Amazon Roku Roku Roku Amazon Amazon Roku
Batteries 2 AAA (included) 2 AAA (included) 2 AAA (included) 2 AAA (included) - 2 AAA batteries required. (included) - 2 AAA (included) 2 AAA (included) -
Size 99 mm x 30 mm x 14 mm (only housing)108 mm x 30 mm x 14 mm (including the connector) 99 mm x 30 mm x 14 mm (only housing)108 mm x 30 mm x 14 mm (including the connector) 38 x 142 x 16 mm 38.68 mm x 141.3 mm x 17.6 mm - - - 38 x 142 x 16 mm 38 mm x 158 mm x 17 mm -
Weight 43.5 g 43.5 g 1.5 oz (42 g) 1.1 oz (32.0 g) - - - 1.1 oz (32.0 g) 513g (1.13 lbs) -
Processor Quad-core 2.0GHz Quad-core 1.7GHz Quad-core 1.7 GHz Quad-core 1.7 GHz - - - Quad-core 1.7 GHz Octa-core 4x 2.2GHz 4x 2.0GHz -
Storage 16GB 8GB 8 GB internal 8 GB internal - - - 8 GB internal 16 GB internal -
Wifi Wi-Fi 6E tri-band: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax (2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz) Wi-Fi 6 dual-band: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax (2.4GHz and 5GHz) Dual-band, dual-antenna wifi (MIMO) for faster streaming and fewer dropped connections than standard wifi. Supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac wifi networks. Dual-band, dual-antenna wifi (MIMO) for faster streaming and fewer dropped connections than standard wifi. Supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac wifi networks. - - - Dual-band, dual-antenna wifi (MIMO) for faster streaming and fewer dropped connections than standard wifi. Supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac wifi networks. Wi-Fi 6E Tri-band. Also supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax wifi networks. For Wi-Fi 6E support, Fire TV Cube must be connected to the 6 GHz band of a Wi-Fi 6E network using WPA3 encryption. -
Bluetooth Bluetooth 5.2 + BLE Bluetooth 5.2 + BLE Bluetooth 5.0 and Bluetooth Low Energy. Pair with compatible Bluetooth speakers, headphones, video game controllers, and more. Bluetooth 5.0 and Bluetooth Low Energy. Pair with compatible Bluetooth speakers, headphones, video game controllers, and more. - - - Bluetooth 5.0 and Bluetooth Low Energy. Pair with compatible Bluetooth speakers, headphones, video game controllers, and more. Bluetooth 5.0 + LE. Pair with compatible Bluetooth speakers, headphones, video game controllers, and more. -
Ports HDMI 2.1 output with ARC input support, micro USB HDMI 2.1 output with ARC input support, micro USB HDMI output, micro-USB for power only. HDMI output, micro-USB for power only. - - - HDMI output, micro-USB for power only. HDMI 2.1 Input, HDMI 2.1 Output, IR Extender, Power, USB-A 2.0, Ethernet port 10/100Mbps -
System requirements High-definition television with available high-speed HDMI input, high-speed internet connection via wifi. Wi-Fi 6E router needed for Wi-Fi 6E support. Auto-Low Latency Mode is included in the HDMI 2.1 standard. High-definition television with available high-speed HDMI input, high-speed internet connection via wifi. Wi-Fi 6 router needed for Wi-Fi 6 support. Auto-Low Latency Mode is included in the HDMI 2.1 standard. High-definition television with available high-speed HDMI input, internet connection via wifi, a power outlet. High-definition television with available HDMI input, internet connection via wifi, a power outlet. - - - High-definition television with available HDMI input, internet connection via wifi, a power outlet. High-definition television with available high-speed HDMI input, high-speed internet connection via wifi or built-in Ethernet port, power outlet (compatible TV/sound/cable equipment for control by infrared or voice). High-speed HDMI cable rated 18Gbps or higher, and 4K TV with high-speed HDMI connector required for 4K viewing and more reliable device control. Wi-Fi 6E router needed for Wi-Fi 6E support. Auto-Low Latency Mode is included in the HDMI 2.1 standard. -
TV compatibility TV must support minimum HDCP requirements for protected content playback. Compatible with 1) 4K UHD TVs with HDMI capable of 2160p at 24/25/30/50/60 Hz and HDCP 2.2 or 2) high-definition TVs with HDMI capable of 1080p or 720p at 50/60 Hz. Learn more about high-definition. TV must support minimum HDCP requirements for protected content playback. Compatible with 1) 4K UHD TVs with HDMI capable of 2160p at 24/25/30/50/60 Hz and HDCP 2.2 or 2) high-definition TVs with HDMI capable of 1080p or 720p at 50/60 Hz. Learn more about high-definition. TV must support minimum HDCP requirements for protected content playback. Compatible with 1) 4K UHD TVs with HDMI capable of 2160p at 24/25/30/50/60 Hz and HDCP 2.2 or 2) high-definition TVs with HDMI capable of 1080p or 720p at 50/60 Hz. Learn more about high-definition. High-definition TVs with HDMI capable of 1080p or 720p at 60/50Hz. - - - High-definition TVs with HDMI capable of 1080p or 720p at 60/50 Hz. TV must support minimum HDCP requirements for protected content playback. Compatible with 1) 4K ultra high-definition TVs with HDMI capable of 2160p at 24/25/30/50/60 Hz and HDCP 2.2 or 2) high-definition TVs with HDMI capable of 1080p or 720p at 50/60 Hz. Learn more about high-definition. -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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