Your smart TV's apps feel slow? A $30 to $129 streaming device fixes it

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is our pick for most people because it's easy to use and doesn't push one company's shows over another. Roku's home screen is a simple grid of apps, and the search covers many services at once. It supports 4K, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, and owners report steady Wi-Fi performance thanks to its long-range receiver. The voice remote is simple enough for anyone. It lacks an Ethernet port and the extra polish of pricier boxes, and Roku does show ads on the home screen. For a fast, no-fuss upgrade, it's hard to beat.

The Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen) is one of the quickest streaming sticks available. It supports Wi-Fi 6E for stronger connections on newer routers, and it handles 4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos. Alexa voice control works well, and it can show camera feeds from Ring doorbells and control smart home gear. Ambient Experience turns your TV into an art or photo display when idle. The interface leans heavily on Amazon content and ads, which some owners find busy. If you already use Alexa and Prime Video, it fits right in.

The Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) is the streaming box reviewers most often call the best overall experience. It's very fast, its home screen is free of ads, and it supports 4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos. iPhone owners get perks like quick sign-in, AirPlay and using the phone as a remote. The USB-C Siri Remote is easy to use. The Wi-Fi and Ethernet model also works as a Thread border router for smart home gear. It costs more than sticks, and you'll get the most from it with other Apple devices. For a premium setup, it's the best choice.

The Google TV Streamer replaced the Chromecast and moved to a set-top box design that sits next to your TV. Google TV is excellent at pulling shows from all your services into personalized recommendations. The box supports 4K, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, includes an Ethernet port for steady connections, and works as a Matter and Thread hub. A smart home panel lets you control lights and see cameras from the couch. The remote has a find-my-remote button. It costs more than sticks, and the home screen has sponsored rows. Google ecosystem fans will feel at home.

If your TV is an older 1080p model or a bedroom set, the Roku Express covers the basics for about $30. It runs the same simple Roku software as pricier models, with access to every major app and free channels. Setup takes minutes, and it includes a basic remote and HDMI cable. It doesn't support 4K or HDR, and the included remote lacks voice control. Menus also feel slower than on the Streaming Stick 4K. For a guest room, a kitchen TV or a dorm, it does the job well for very little money.