With much of the world being told to stay at home, the demand for streaming TV has increased dramatically in the past month. I’m going to revisit two devices I’ve discussed at length in the past as they provide a way for you to stream all of your favorites, or at least almost all of them. Yes, I’ll include links to purchase them from Amazon and I do receive a tiny commission if you use my links to buy. Yes, I own both of the devices discussed and I purchased them at regular price.
For at least 25 years I depended on a satellite dish to bring television to me. For probably another 20 years before that, it came via cable television. When I sold my Arizona home in 2018, I decided it was time to cut the cord and get all my television needs met via streaming. Today I use two primary devices on my televisions.
My main television has the Fire TV Cube. One benefit of the Cube is that it allows for a wired Internet connection. This means I don’t have to worry about any glitches with the wireless signal though I do have to worry about the limited broadband connection into the house.
It also doubles as a regular “Alexa” device in that I can just call it by name and request that it complete a task. When I’m not using the TV, it contains a small speaker to provide a response. When the TV is in use, the output goes via HDMI to my television. This can include playing music complete with on-screen lyrics, letting me know when someone has pressed my Ring doorbell and helping me turn lights on and off.
The other option is the Fire TV Stick 4K which plugs directly into the HDMI port of your television. It can only connect to the Internet wirelessly and you can only use voice command via a button on the remote control. It is much easier to move the Fire TV Stick between televisions and it is less expensive if you want to have a dedicated device on more televisions.
Beyond the device, you want to have programming. There are a few options that provide free content, though you’ll find a larger selection of paid services. Amazon Video can be purchased separately or included with a Prime subscription. Netflix and Disney+ are readily available. I use AT&T Now to get “live” television and there are other options for that available. Throw in dedicated apps like ESPN, Fox Sports, NBC Sports, HBO Go and you have even more choices.
While I’ve listed several very popular services, I’ve only scratched the surface of the many options available. No matter the type of programming you enjoy, you’ll likely find the right service to meet your needs.
For those who aren’t already streaming television, the Fire TV Cube and Fire TV Stick 4K should be seriously considered for your needs. Those who are already streaming may want to get an extra device or two so that all televisions are covered.
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