Tech for Luddites

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Streaming Media Players: A Comparison Chart

Last Updated: December 12, 2017

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by Elizabeth Kricfalusi, Tech for Luddites

Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, Google ChromecastThis chart compares several features of the Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, and Google Chromecast streaming media players, including price, TV and Internet connection options, supported content providers and additional features specific to each one.

The chart does not compare streaming performance, ease of setup, or ease of navigating each device’s user interface because I haven’t really found a significant difference between any of them.

Note: This chart was last updated on December 12, 2017. Information may change at any time. For complete, up-to-date details about any of these devices, please visit the device manufacturer’s website. If you find any errors, please let me know at elizabeth@techforluddites.com.

 Amazon Fire TVRokuApple TVGoogle Chromecast
Websiteamazon.com/firetvroku.comapple.com/tvhttps://store.google.com/category/home_entertainment

Where to BuyAmazon US, Amazon UK, Amazon Canada (Basic Fire TV Stick only)Roku
Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK		Apple
Sam's Club		Google : Chromecast, Chromecast Ultra
B&H Photo
List Price (USD)Fire TV: $69.99
Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote: $39.99
Compare Models
Roku Ultra: $99.99
Roku Streaming Stick+: $69.99
Roku Premiere: $69.99
Roku Express+: $39.99
Roku Express: $29.99
Roku Streaming Stick: $49.99
Compare Models: Web, PDF
Apple TV 4K, 64GB: $199.00
Apple TV 4K, 32GB: $179.00,
Apple TV, 32GB: $149.00
Compare Models 		Google Chromecast Ultra: $69.00
Google Chromecast: $35.00
TV ConnectionsHDMIAll: HDMI
Express+: HDMI, Composite A/V for older TVs
HDMIHDMI
Internet ConnectionsBoth: Wi-Fi, Ethernet (with adapter, sold separately)
Ultra: Wi-Fi, Ethernet
Other Models: Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi, EthernetBoth: Wi-Fi
Ultra also comes with Ethernet adapter
Content Providers Available on AllNetflix, Hulu, Crackle, FilmStruck, Sling TV, PlayStation Vue, DIRECTV NOW, Hulu Live TV, HBO, SHOWTIME, PBS, PBS Kids, WatchDisney, WatchESPN, FOX NOW, Telemundo Deportes EN VIVO, Plex, Pandora
NOTE: May be limited to certain models and geographies. Check with device manufacturer to confirm availability.
Additional Popular ProvidersAmazon Video, Spotify, Amazon Music, Sirius XM, PlayOn
Find More
Amazon Video, FandangoNOW, VUDU, Google Play,YouTube, YouTube TV, Spotify, Amazon Music, Sirius XM, PlayOn
Find More (official channel store)
Private channels also available
iTunes, Apple Music, Amazon Video, VUDU, YouTube, YouTube TV, Sirius XM
Find More (full list not available online)		Google Play, YouTube, YouTube TV, FandangoNOW, VUDU, Amazon Music, Spotify, PlayOn
Find More
Missing Popular Providers

May be able to cast or mirror from computer or mobile devices		FandangoNOW, Google Play, YouTube (as of January 1, 2018), VUDU, iTunes, Apple MusiciTunes, Apple MusicGoogle Play, FandangoNOW, Spotify, Amazon Music, PlayOnAmazon Video, iTunes, Apple Music, Sirius XM
Additional Features

  • Box supports 4K and HDR video

  • Pair with select Amazon Echo voice-activated devices for hands-free control

  • Remote and mobile apps also work with Alexa personal assistant

  • Amazon Fire, Android, and iOS apps available for use as remote control

  • Screen mirroring available on Fire TV Stick for compatible Amazon Fire and Android devices

  • Amazon Free Time for children’s content

  • Free Amazon Cloud storage for all Amazon content

  • Supports Bluetooth accessories

  • Can use in hotels and other places requiring Wi-Fi login


  • Ultra, Streaming Stick+: Support 4K and HDR video

  • Ultra, Streaming Stick+, Streaming Stick: Voice Search on Remote (all models have voice search through mobile app)

  • Ultra: USB port for personal media on external drive, microSD slot for extra memory, Ethernet port, night listening mode, enhanced remote with headphone jack and gaming buttons, and a remote finder

  • Streaming Stick, Streaming Stick+: Wireless remote that doesn't require line of sight

  • Express+: Has A/V connectors for using with non-HDTVs

  • Amazon Fire, iOS, and Android apps available for use as remote control and for playing media from device

  • Screen mirroring available with all models for compatible PCs and mobile devices

  • Can use in hotels and other places requiring Wi-Fi login

  • Can watch content saved on Mac computers, iOS devices, and iCloud

  • TV app helps organize content in one interface

  • Use Siri voice commands

  • Single sign-on lets you log into multiple apps available with your cable/satellite package

  • iOS app available for use as remote

  • Can cast and control streaming content and mirror screens from compatible Macs and iOS devices using AirPlay

  • Supports Bluetooth accessories

  • Ultra supports 4K and HDR video

  • Pair with Google Home voice-activated devices for hands-free control

  • Google Home app helps you discover popular content and supported apps

  • Can use Chrome browser to cast any tab or full computer screen to TV

  • Screen mirroring available for compatible Android devices

Read the T4L Blog Post to Learn MoreAmazon Fire TV: What Is It and How Does It Work?Roku: What Is It and How Does It Work?Apple TV: What Is It and How Does It Work?Google Chromecast: What Is It and How Does It Work?


Frequently Asked Questions about Streaming Media

The links below will take you to the Streaming Media FAQ page that has answers to questions relevant to streaming players and content in general.

Do I need a computer to use a streaming media player?

Do I need Internet service to use a streaming media player?

How fast does my Internet connection need to be for streaming movies and TV shows?

How many gigs of data do I need to watch streaming media?

Can I stream content using my cellphone's data plan?

I have a limited data plan with my Internet service provider. Does my player stream data even when I'm not using it?

Can I use a VPN service with a streaming media player?

Do I need cable or satellite service to use a streaming media player?

How does a streaming media player work with my cable/satellite service?

Can I watch "regular TV" through a streaming player?

If I have a streaming media player and an antenna, can I cancel my cable/satellite service?

Do I need a Smart TV to use a streaming media player?

All my HDMI ports are already being used. Is there a way to add a streaming player without unplugging another device?

Can I connect multiple streaming players to the same TV?

I have multiple TVs. Do I need a separate player for each one?

Can I use a streaming media player with an older TV?

How do I switch back to watch regular TV?

If I buy a Roku/Fire TV/Apple TV/Chromecast, is that a one-time cost or do I have to pay annually?

If I buy a streaming media player, why do I need to pay to watch videos?

What are the costs of the various streaming services you can use with your streaming media player?

Can I watch videos saved on my computer, phone, tablet, or external hard drive on TV using a streaming media player?

Can I use a streaming media player outside the United States?

Can I record streaming videos with my DVR?

Filed Under: Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Cutting the Cable Cord, Google Chromecast, Popular, Real Life Tech, Recommended, Roku, Series, Streaming Media

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Comments for this page are now closed. If you still have questions about streaming media players, please visit the Frequently Asked Questions page. If your question is still not answered there, you can add it to the comments section on that page.

If you're wondering if you can use a streaming media player to cancel your cable or satellite service, please visit the Cutting the Cable Cord section.

    Comments

  1. Using the amazon fire stick is there any way to watch tv in multiple rooms at the same time? if I purchased the prime package or amazon has a bundle package with an antenna included can I also get local news channels and ESPN?

  2. Im a REAL Luddite when it comes to this technology – my wife & I are moving back to UK from abroad soon. We’ve been happy enough with digital terrestrial TV when we’ve visited relatives up till now, but wonder whether one of these services might be a good alternative to cable/satellite when we come back for good.
    What sort of subscription fees do the various providers charge, or do you pay a per movie/series/event charge…?
    If we had a Fire TV box in the lounge & a Fire Stick in the bedroom, would we need two accounts…?
    We’re looking at Smart TVs – do we still need a box/stick, or can we access any or all of these services via the TV’s internet connectivity…?

    • Hi Andy.

      It’s very hard for me to answer questions about services outside of the U.S. because the offerings are very different from country to country. But to your specific questions:

      – Some providers, like Netflix, charge monthly subscription fees while others, like Amazon Video, charge for each title you rent/purchase. The latter has one exception where if you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can stream a subset of their library for free. What you’ll need to do is look at each supported content provider you’re interested in and check out what their model is.

      – You don’t need separate accounts for multiple devices. However, note that some content providers may have limits on how many screens you can stream to at the same time. Again, you should visit their websites to find out the specific terms.

      – If you get a smart TV, you may not need an additional streaming device. It just depends whether the content providers the TV supports are the only ones you’re interested in. In general, the smart TVs don’t currently support as many providers as the individual players, but they usually support the most popular ones. And going forward I’m sure the big-name smart TV manufacturers will continue to add more content providers as this becomes more popular.

      I hope that helps.

      – Elizabeth

      • Thanks Elizabeth, that’s very useful info – life was so much easier when there were only 3 channels to choose from…! 🙂

  3. I notice one error – the Google Chromecast offers an ethernet adapter for $15. Works great, but may no longer be needed with the improved wifi on Chromecast 2.

    • Thanks for sharing that info. I’m in the process of updating this post to include the new info but I’m not ready to go live with it yet. Hopefully soon!

  4. Greetings
    I’m looking for cable alternative, am considering Fire TV/stick
    How can I find out:
    a. Easiest way to look up networks and show listings
    b. How can I be sure if they are included in fire stick and or price listings for subscriptions
    Thank you for any help! George C

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