Television entertainment has changed dramatically over the past decade. While traditional cable TV and set-top boxes still offer a range of content—news, sports, movies, and music—they come with a major drawback: scheduled programming. You have to tune in at a specific time or miss your favorite show altogether. This limitation is one of the primary reasons why many viewers are now shifting towards digital streaming.
- Why Should You Consider a Streaming Device?
- Which Is the Best Streaming Device?
- 1. Amazon Fire TV Cube (2nd Gen) – Best Overall Streaming Device
- 2. Apple TV 4K (2nd Gen) – Best for Apple Ecosystem Users
- 3. Chromecast with Google TV – Best for Google Ecosystem
- 4. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K – Best Value for Money
- 5. Mi TV Stick (FHD) – Best Budget Streaming Device
- Which Streaming Device Is Best for a Non-Smart TV?
- Do I Need a 4K Streaming Device for a 4K TV?
- What Is Better Than a Fire Stick?
- What Is the Most Popular Device for Streaming Video?
- What Is the New Google Streaming Device?
With the rise of OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, and others, the demand for the best streaming devices has skyrocketed in India. These compact, powerful devices offer instant access to high-definition content, making your standard or even non-smart TV smart enough to stream the latest shows and films.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best streaming devices available in India, help you choose the right one for your TV setup, and answer key questions like: Which streaming device is best for non-smart TV?, Do I need a 4K streaming device for a 4K TV?, and What is better than a Fire Stick?
Why Should You Consider a Streaming Device?
Streaming devices unlock the full potential of your TV. Instead of watching whatever is scheduled, you can binge your favorite series at your convenience. Whether it’s Netflix originals, Prime Video exclusives, or Disney+ Hotstar blockbusters, you can access all content with a tap.
A streaming device is especially beneficial if:
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You own a non-smart TV and want access to modern OTT apps.
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You want a more intuitive and faster interface than your smart TV offers.
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You’re looking for voice assistant support or integration with your smart home setup.
Which Is the Best Streaming Device?
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the best streaming devices in 2025 available in India, including premium, budget-friendly, and specialized options.
1. Amazon Fire TV Cube (2nd Gen) – Best Overall Streaming Device
If you’re looking for the most powerful and feature-rich media streaming device, the Amazon Fire TV Cube (2nd Gen) tops the list. Combining the power of a Fire TV and an Echo smart speaker, it supports 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and hands-free Alexa voice control.
Key Features:
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Supports all major platforms: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Hotstar, Apple TV
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Hands-free Alexa voice control
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Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision
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Fire TV OS with personalized recommendations
Price in India: ₹12,999 approx.
Why It’s the Best:
Its fast performance, voice assistant integration, and extensive content support make it the best media streaming device overall.
2. Apple TV 4K (2nd Gen) – Best for Apple Ecosystem Users
For those immersed in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple TV 4K (2nd Gen) is the perfect choice. It features the A12 Bionic chip, delivers ultra-smooth 4K streaming, and integrates perfectly with iPhones, iPads, and Macs via AirPlay.
Key Features:
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Apple tvOS with Siri voice control
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Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support
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Compatible with Apple Arcade (gaming)
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Seamless integration with iCloud, AirPlay, HomeKit
Price in India: ₹18,900
Why Choose It:
Ideal for users who already use Apple services and want a seamless, high-quality streaming and casual gaming experience.
3. Chromecast with Google TV – Best for Google Ecosystem
Unlike the older Chromecast models, the Chromecast with Google TV functions independently with its own UI and remote. It supports Android TV apps and provides 4K HDR streaming with Dolby Vision.
Key Features:
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Google TV UI on top of Android TV
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4K UHD, Dolby Vision, HDR10
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Google Assistant-enabled remote
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Access to over 7,000 Android apps
Price in India: ₹6,399
Why It’s Popular:
Great for those who use Google services, rely on voice control, and want curated recommendations across multiple apps.
4. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K – Best Value for Money
If you’re not ready to splurge on the Fire TV Cube but want 4K streaming, the Fire TV Stick 4K is a solid option. It offers similar features at nearly half the price.
Key Features:
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4K Ultra HD, HDR, Dolby Atmos
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Alexa Voice Remote
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Simple plug-and-play via HDMI
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Supports Netflix, Hotstar, Prime Video, and more
Price in India: ₹5,999
Why It’s Worth It:
It’s ideal for users seeking 4K streaming on a budget with minimal compromise on features.
5. Mi TV Stick (FHD) – Best Budget Streaming Device
For those looking for the cheapest streaming device, the Mi TV Stick offers full-HD (1080p) streaming at a price hard to beat.
Key Features:
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Android TV 11 (with Google Assistant)
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Chromecast built-in
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Dual-band Wi-Fi support
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Access to Google Play Store apps
Price in India: ₹3,999
Why Buy It:
Perfect for non-smart TVs and users who don’t require 4K but still want app access and a smooth interface.
Which Streaming Device Is Best for a Non-Smart TV?
For older TVs without built-in smart features, the Mi TV Stick or Fire TV Stick Lite is ideal. These devices plug into the HDMI port and instantly add smart functionality, giving you access to OTT apps, voice search, and even screen mirroring.
Do I Need a 4K Streaming Device for a 4K TV?
Yes, if you have a 4K TV, it makes sense to pair it with a 4K streaming device. This ensures you get the best video quality, with features like Dolby Vision and HDR10 enhancing visuals. Devices like:
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Fire TV Stick 4K
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Chromecast with Google TV
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Apple TV 4K
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Fire TV Cube
are all optimized for 4K content.
What Is Better Than a Fire Stick?
If you want more power and features, the Fire TV Cube is better than a regular Fire Stick. It offers:
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Hands-free Alexa
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Faster processor
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Better voice recognition
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Smart speaker functionality
Alternatively, if you’re an Android user, Chromecast with Google TV offers better content curation and seamless integration with Google services.
What Is the Most Popular Device for Streaming Video?
Globally and in India, Amazon Fire TV Stick remains the most popular due to:
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Affordable pricing
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Wide compatibility
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Voice remote
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Access to all major Indian and international apps
It’s a household name, particularly among first-time smart TV users.
What Is the New Google Streaming Device?
The latest from Google is the Chromecast with Google TV HD (2022), a more affordable variant of the 4K version. It supports 1080p streaming with HDR and is perfect for users without a 4K TV.
Price in India: ₹4,499
Choosing from the best streaming devices depends on your preferences, TV resolution, and ecosystem loyalty (Apple, Google, or Amazon). If you’re an iPhone user, the Apple TV 4K is unbeatable. Android fans will love the Chromecast with Google TV. For budget-conscious buyers, the Fire TV Stick or Mi TV Stick is perfect. And if you’re looking for the most powerful streaming experience, go for the Fire TV Cube.
Whichever device you choose, you’re just a few clicks away from enjoying your favorite shows, movies, and more—right from the comfort of your couch.
