The Best New Streaming Tech to Gift Binge Watchers (PHOTOS)
Apple TV 4K
You’ve read enough about 4K, so let’s get to other goodies. The Apple TV has Dolby Atmos sound (i.e., high-class surround sound that “immerses” you in events like rain or gunfights), which is cool if you own the right speakers or soundbar. More exciting: Movies or shows previously purchased from iTunes in non-HD or with regular sound will automatically upgrade on the box (for free) if they later become available with either. $179–$199
Fire TV Stick 4K
Our last issue featured the impressive Amazon Fire TV Cube. But those on a budget won’t lose out with the Stick. It’s powerful, due to a new quad core, 1.7GHz processor (in English: less wait time for apps to load, no more freezing during playback). And it’s the first stick with Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos and HDR10+ (i.e., unbeatable picture and sound). The new Alexa voice-controlled remote connects to your TV and cable box. (No fumbling between remotes!) Amazon also teamed with Toshiba and Insignia for 10 TV models with Fire TV (and thus Alexa) built in. Just FYI: They’re only available at Best Buy. Stick: $50; TVs: $149 and up
Chromecast Ultra 3rd Generation
“Casting,” or sending video to your TV from your PC, tablet or phone over Wi-Fi, is a great way to stream, and the new Chromecasts are faster and offer a better image. Plus, they work seamlessly with Google Home and Google Home Mini devices (which also connect through Wi-Fi). Plug the device into your TV, download the Google app on your tablet or phone, and stream away. $35
Roku Premiere
Rokus are the top-selling streaming devices for good reason. They’re easy to set up (five minutes, max). They’re simple to use: Pick your services (Roku calls them “channels”), like Netflix, and they appear as icons on the home page (aka, the screen you see when you turn on the box). And they’re cheap: The new Roku Premiere and Roku Premiere+ are the most affordable way to stream in HD, 4K or 4K HDR (translation: top-notch picture quality). The Premiere+ has fancy details, like a voice-controlled remote that will change your TV’s volume. One caveat: It’s only sold at Walmart. Roku Premiere: $40; Premiere+: $50.
Nvidia Shield TV
The Nvidia Shield offers the most streaming services with 4K (Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, Google Play and FandangoNow among them) of any device. And it has Google Assistant voice recognition built in, so you can order it around sans remote. Video game buffs, this is the purchase for you: It supports all the big titles (like Fortnite) and its new cloud service will save your place in the action and let you pick up on another device (like your computer). $179–$219
The holidays are right around the corner and the latest streaming tech is the perfect gift for those who like to binge and chill this festive time of year.
From Rokus to 4K TV’s there’s something for everyone. Click through the gallery above for a look at five of the latest items available to enhance your viewing experience now.
