Although it's been a couple of years since we've seen a new device, Google has remained consistent with keeping its Chromecast up to date with both software updates and bug fixes. If you already have a Chromecast, I'm sure you can attest to the fact that Google really does seem to care about providing a quality streaming experience for all its users. So when we heard talk about Google potentially releasing a new Chromecast device, it was almost like they listened to their users.

As of yet, we don't have an official release date or too much information on this new device, and while we do now have this rumor to look forward to, the well-known and loved Chromecast with Google TV 4K is still holding its own as a great all-around option for your home theater. Long-term usage has proven a couple of flaws — namely, a limited amount of storage space that can get bogged down with system files and apps — but that hasn't stopped us from highly recommending Google's latest puck-shaped gadget. With a great UI, an excellent remote, and support for all of the audio and video standards you'd expect, it's still a solid buy.

Most basic streaming devices often come pre-programmed with specific platforms and features already installed and ready to go, which is great for people who aren't overly tech-savvy. On the opposite end of the spectrum, however, NVIDIA's Shield TV Pro is the best Android TV hardware you can buy right now. It's not just a competent set-top box — it's perfect for game streaming and even running a Plex server, something its hordes of die-hard fans will be quick to tell you. It's also running a stripped-down version of the Google TV UI if you're after a Chromecast-esque experience.

Since the Shield TV Pro debuted in 2019, updates for this device have been few and far between, while other devices, such as the Fire TV Cube, are receiving more regular updates; this might be something you want to factor in. Overall though, this device can't compare to many others due to the sheer differences in programming. But really, the only thing working against Nvidia's top-tier Shield TV is the price. At $200, it's hard to justify compared to gadgets that cost as much as ten times less.

While Amazon has a wonderful lineup of smart TVs, one of the best-selling streaming devices continues to be the Fire TV Stick. More specifically, the latest Fire TV Stick 4K Max, and yes, it is a mouthful to say. It's small, but it packs a little punch of power. A substantial upgrade from the Fire TV Stick 4K, the Max is 40% more powerful, offering an improved processor, extra RAM, and virtually non-existent app loading times. The Fire TV Stick 4K Max also integrates with the latest Wi-Fi 6 capabilities for next-gen devices. The user interface itself still has its fair share of issues, but these issues can be easily overlooked for around $50 — and often on sale.

If you're hunting for an Assistant-supported gadget, you will need to pay the bigger bucks for the Fire TV Cube. But if the more simplified Alexa voice remote to search content with your voice is all the assistance you need, you can't go wrong with the Fire TV Stick 4K Max. Even though Amazon's devices are more ad-heavy than most, the tradeoff for a quick, powerful, and affordable streaming device seems well worth it.

The Amazon Fire TV Cube isn't just your typical streaming device but also doubles as an Amazon Echo for your home. This device is twice as powerful as its predecessors and features the fastest streaming available today. In close competition with the Nvidia Shield TV Pro, and only a fraction of the cost, the only thing preventing the Fire TV Cube from taking its place is the overwhelming amount of ads. Of course, even cable TV has commercials and ads, so if that's no big deal for you, then you'll get a lot out of this.

The octa-core processor allows seamless navigation between programs and channels without any delay. You'll also find yourself fully immersed in every scene with the cinematic 4K resolution and support for Dolby Vision, HDR, and Dolby Atmos. The hands-free Alexa Assistant lets you control your compatible TV, soundbar, and receivers from anywhere in the room. You can also use your Alexa Assistant as a simple smart speaker. If you want a streaming device that has it all, you can't go wrong with the Amazon Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen).

Maybe you heard of TiVo a long time ago and didn't realize they're still hanging on, with a pretty solid grasp at that. TiVo was one of the first streaming devices to come to market, beginning as a DVR in 1999, and has advanced to a 4K media streaming device, the TiVo Stream 4K. This device may look small, but it packs quite a punch. Powered by Android TV, the Stream 4K uses a quad-core Amlogic processor to give you all your favorite channels at a super quick speed.

The TiVo Stream 4K is an Android powerhouse integrating some really great features like a built-in Chromecast to cast photos, videos, and music in an instant. In addition, you can use Google Assistant to control your shows hands-free and voice-controlled easily, and the remote also comes with a built-in Google Assistant button. The best part about the TiVo Stream 4K is that it comes at a fraction of the price of its many competitors. So even though TiVo is no longer mainstream, their device is nothing to overlook and worth every penny.

Roku has dominated the field of low-cost streaming gadgets for many years, with countless variations available. The Roku Express 4K+ isn't quite a streaming "stick," nor is it a massive box; this device is small and oh-so mighty. The Express 4K+ is the best entry-level device that Roku makes today, featuring support for Alexa and Google Assistant, 4K and HDR10+, and improved networking compared to the standard Express. Software updates are automatic, so that is something you don't have to worry about compared to other streaming devices.

Roku's user interface is a love-it-or-hate-it affair, but all the usual services you'd expect to find in the competition are here for the most part. As for the remote, if simple is what you want, then simple is what you get. Unfortunately, that also means no voice control option, so you will have to search for everything by typing. Although the Express 4K+ is usually priced at around $40, it's often discounted as low as $25, which is the perfect price for a guest or kids' room TV.

The Roku Express 4K+ might be the best entry-level device that Roku makes today due to the sheer pricing factor, but the Roku Streaming Stick 4K knocks it out of the park in every other way. By introducing Dolby Vision and HDR10+, the picture quality alone is worth upgrading. Aside from picture quality, the integration of Apple AirPlay and HomeKit gives users more smart home control options, and the new and improved remote finally includes a voice command button. These differences might not seem significant, but if you've been stuck typing in all your movie searches, the voice command button might be a life changer.

With faster loading times, all-around better performance, and unbranded shortcuts, the updated Roku Streaming Stick 4K at only $50 is worth the upgrade for most, especially if it is your main streaming device. However, if your Roku Express 4K+ is a secondary room device and is still going strong in the kid's room, it might be best to let them learn to spell out their favorite shows. Who knows, they might learn a little something themselves.

We already know Nvidia has a very different approach to the overall operation of their devices, and the classic Nvidia Shield is no exception. This device has been radically redesigned from the non-Pro version of the Shield TV in 2019, switching to a tube-based look that's easy to hide behind your television. Naturally, with Nvidia devices, the price does reflect the quality, and while the Nvidia Shield is slightly cheaper than its top-tier sister, you're still looking at around $150 for the streaming stick. The Nvidia Shield does offer more storage and faster performance than the Chromecast, making it a solid upgrade, but this version won't function as a Plex server.

Now if you're searching for a basic streaming stick to watch all your favorite shows, you probably don't need to shell out all this money for the Nvidia Shield. Alternatively, if you just can't get on board with the basic Chromecast, Amazon, or Roku devices, and you're looking for more customization options and larger storage capabilities, The Nvidia Shield won't let you down as a small but powerful device.

I know what you're thinking: why would Apple TV make the list when it's exclusive to Apple users? Well, that's where the game is changing big time. While still in beta testing, Apple has recently announced they plan to bring the Apple TV+ collection to Android users. So, even though it will be a good while before anything is released to the public, we do have this avenue from Apple to look forward to.

The Apple TV 4K system sits at around $180 and is arguably one of the most powerful streaming devices you can buy right now. Equipped with an A12 Bionic, the Apple TV 4K receives a significant boost in graphics performance, audio processing, and video decoding to create a quality entertainment experience right in the comfort of your living room. Apple Arcade makes for a decent home console replacement, while the redesigned remote once again includes a D-pad after swapping it for a touchpad in previous generations. It is obviously missing Cast support, and Apple AirPlay won't do much for many of our readers until the Android crossover is released — but if you have Apple devices in your house, it's a decent and more cost-effective alternative to the Shield TV Pro.

Walmarts own streaming device — the Onn Android TV Box — is one of the most affordable and low-cost options for streaming devices. But with a price so low, it is not expected to have many fancy features. Similar to Google's Chromecast, this TV box supports Dolby Vision and includes a smart Assistant built into the remote itself. However, you will have to settle for a no-frills Android TV interface, and it's missing some of the flourishes offered by Chromecast (Dolby Atmos and HDR10+, for example). That said, for a low-cost streaming device that is also often on sale, the Onn Android TV box is a great option for multiple rooms. The TV box keeps you from shelling out tons of money for multiple streaming devices.

If you're less of a fan of big and bulky TV boxes and prefer a small streaming stick, users have this to look forward to soon. According to reports from 9to5Google, Walmart plans to release a new 4K streaming stick to their Onn brand devices with some great features. In the meantime, if you're looking to pick up a cheap streaming device, the Onn Android TV Box will have you well on your way to streaming your favorites.