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Streaming Media Players: A Comparison Chart

Last Updated: June 20, 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, number of supported content providers (with examples of some of the most popular ones supported and not supported) 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 June 20, 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/tvgoogle.com/chromecast/tv
Where to BuyAmazon US, Amazon UKRoku
Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK		Apple
Sam's Club		Google
B&H Photo
List Price (USD)Fire TV: $89.99
Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote: $39.99
Compare Models
Roku Ultra: $109.99
Roku Premiere+: $89.99
Roku Premiere: $69.99
Roku Express+: $39.99
Roku Express: $29.99
Roku Streaming Stick: $49.99
Compare Models
Apple TV, 64GB: $199.00
Apple TV, 32GB: $149.00		Google Chromecast Ultra: $69.00
Google Chromecast: $35.00
Compare Models
TV ConnectionsHDMIAll: HDMI
Express+: HDMI, Composite A/V for older TVs
HDMIHDMI
Internet ConnectionsBox: Wi-Fi, Ethernet
Stick: Wi-Fi
Premiere+, Ultra: Wi-Fi, Ethernet
Other Models: Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi, EthernetBoth: Wi-Fi
Ultra also comes with Ethernet adapter
Number of Content Apps/Channels
(video, audio, game, etc.)		Box: 5,300+
Stick: 4,800+
Full List
NOTE: These are old numbers. Amazon doesn't publish the number anymore.		4,500+ official (varies by country)
Full List
Private channels also available
1,600+
Find More (full list not available online)
Thousands (difficult to find a complete count)
Full List
Available on AllNetflix, Hulu, Crackle, FilmStruck, Sling TV, PlayStation Vue, DIRECTV NOW, HBO, SHOWTIME, PBS, PBS Kids, WatchDisney, WatchESPN, FOX NOW, Telemundo Deportes EN VIVO, YouTube, Plex, Pandora
NOTE: May be limited to certain models. Check with device manufacturer to confirm availability.
Additional Popular ProvidersAmazon Video, Spotify, Amazon Music, PlayOn
Amazon Video, FandangoNOW, VUDU, Google Play, Spotify, Amazon Music, PlayOniTunes, Apple Music, Hulu Live TV, Amazon Video (coming in 2017)Google Play, YouTube TV, Hulu Live TV, FandangoNOW, VUDU, Spotify, PlayOn
Missing Popular ProvidersFandangoNOW, Google Play, YouTube TV, VUDU, iTunes, Apple Music, Hulu Live TV (coming soon)iTunes, Apple Music, YouTube TV, Hulu Live TV (coming soon)Google Play, YouTube TV, FandangoNOW, VUDU, Spotify, Amazon Music, PlayOnAmazon Video, Amazon Music, iTunes, Apple Music
Additional Features

  • Box supports 4K video and has microSD slot and USB port for extra storage

  • Remote and mobile app work with Alexa personal assistant

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

  • Screen mirroring available 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

  • Box can play personal media from USB drive with third-party apps (e.g. VLC)

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


  • Ultra, Premiere+: Support 4K and HDR video; Ultra also has optical audio port, USB port for personal media on external drive, enhanced remote with voice search and gaming buttons, and a remote finder

  • Premiere, Premiere+ and Ultra: Night Listening Mode and headphone jack in remote

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

  • Screen mirroring available with Ultra, Premiere+, Premiere, and Streaming Stick

  • 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

  • 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

  • Can use Google Home voice-activated speaker to control Chromecast
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 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?

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?

Does my computer have to be on to use the Roku/Fire TV/Apple TV/Chromecast?

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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