Voice control no doubt offers unparalleled ease of use but it has also changed the way how we interact with technology. Gone are the days of fumbling with remotes or navigating complex menus. It allows you to effortlessly search for content, adjust volume, launch apps, and even control smart home devices – all with the power of your voice. Whether you’re relaxing on the couch, juggling tasks in the kitchen, or simply seeking a hands-free experience, this smart ability streamlines your entertainment experience. Therefore, it is necessary to go for a device that can offer you such abilities conveniently.
Streaming devices have altered the way how we consume content, giving us access to a world of entertainment on our TVs. Among these devices, those equipped with voice control have become top choices due to their convenience and seamless integration with smart home ecosystems. But with so many options on the market, selecting the perfect one can be overwhelming. Let’s take a look at the top 12 best picks for streaming devices with voice control and explore why they matter.
Read more about: The Top 10 Streaming Devices with Powerful, Latest and Cutting-Edge Features
List of the Top 12 picks for Media Streamers with Voice Control
We have curated a list with a brief description, comprising the best of the streaming devices with a must-have voice control compatibility. Each device offers a unique set of strengths of abilities with a different price point. You can select a device that aligns with your taste and budget.
Google Chromecast with Google TV 4K
The Google Chromecast with Google TV 4K is a powerful yet affordable media streamer that offers voice control with other snappy features, and ease of use. The Google Chromecast with Google TV 4K offers effortless voice control with its integrated Google Assistant. Users can easily navigate content, get personalized recommendations, and access various streaming services all in one place. With support for 4K HDR streaming, users can enjoy stunning visuals on their compatible 4K TV. The device also offers casual gaming capabilities and smart home integration through Google Assistant. Retailing around $50, it provides a good balance between affordability and features. While it may not be suitable for those looking for cutting-edge gaming or advanced smart home integration, but may be the best option for budget-conscious folks who want the ease of voice control in a limited budget.
Roku Streaming Stick 4K+
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ is a compact and convenient streaming device that offers robust voice control capabilities while staying within budget. The Roku 4K+ offers effortless voice control through its included remote, allowing users to search for content, launch apps, adjust volume, and control some smart home devices with Google Assistant. The user-friendly interface of the Roku device allows for easy navigation through menus and streaming services. With support for 4K HDR streaming, users can enjoy exceptional visuals on compatible 4K TVs. Casual gamers can also enjoy a selection of mobile-optimized games with the option to connect compatible controllers for a more immersive experience. While smart home integration is limited compared to dedicated hubs, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ offers a balance between affordability and features with a mid-range price tag of 59.99 USD.
Roku Ultra
The Roku Ultra is one of the most advanced streaming devices, offering exceptional voice control features alongside a range of impressive functionalities. It elevates voice control with a dedicated remote featuring a built-in microphone. Effortlessly search for content, launch apps, adjust volume, or even control some smart home devices using voice commands. It supports popular voice assistants like Google Assistant and offers a smoother experience compared to the basic voice control on the Roku Streaming Stick 4K+. The Roku Ultra offers seamless navigation with its user-friendly interface, top-tier 4K HDR streaming, and enhanced gaming capabilities. It offers a smooth and intuitive browsing experience, vibrant visuals, and the potential for more demanding mobile games. Additionally, it integrates well with smart home ecosystems for added convenience. Priced around 99.99 USD, the Roku Ultra is a higher-end streaming device with powerful features.
Apple TV 4K
The Apple TV 4K is the top pick for voice-controlled streaming, offering an effortless experience for everyone. With Siri integration, controlling your entertainment is easy. Simply press the Siri button on the remote and speak your commands. Search for movies and shows, launch apps, adjust volume, or even control compatible smart home devices, all with the power of your voice. The Apple TV 4K is designed for Apple users and offers seamless integration with Apple services like Apple Music, Apple TV+, and iCloud Photos. It provides premium 4K HDR streaming for exceptional visuals on compatible TVs. The device also caters to gamers with support for mobile games and high-end controllers and also allows for smart home integration through Siri. Priced around $129.00, the Apple TV 4K is at the premium end of the market, reflecting its focus on quality and features. While it may not be suitable for users outside of the Apple ecosystem, for those seeking a high-quality streaming experience with advanced voice control, the Apple TV 4K is a compelling option.
Nvidia Shield TV
The Nvidia Shield TV stands out as a powerful streaming device, but its voice control capabilities are something else. It integrates seamlessly with Google Assistant, offering a robust and versatile voice control experience. Simply hold the dedicated microphone button on the remote and speak your commands. Search for movies, TV shows, or YouTube videos by title, actor, or genre, all hands-free. So no more tiring on-screen typing, navigate your entertainment with ease. You can also adjust the volume, launch apps, control playback, or even dim the lights with compatible smart home devices. The Shield TV offers more than just voice control, with features like high-performance streaming for 4K HDR content and gaming capabilities for cloud gaming. It can also serve as a smart home hub, controlling compatible devices through Google Assistant. So, if you want a device that can handle intense gaming sessions with the best possible visuals alongside voice control, Nvidia is your solution. However, it comes at a hefty price of 199.99 USD but it will definitely justify its pricing with the performance.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K caters to users who love the convenience of Alexa and prioritizes a budget-friendly voice-controlled streaming experience. Pricing only $49.99, it seamlessly integrates with Alexa, Amazon’s intelligent voice assistant. Press the dedicated microphone button on the remote and speak your commands. Search for content, launch apps, adjust volume, or even control compatible smart home devices, all with the power of your voice. The Fire TV Stick 4K shines for those invested in the Amazon ecosystem. Enjoy deep integration with Prime Video, Amazon Music, and other Amazon services in full 4K HDR. Enjoy vibrant colors, sharp details, and a truly cinematic experience on your compatible 4K TV. This makes it a compelling option for those seeking a balance between affordability and features, especially for users already invested in the Alexa ecosystem.
Amazon Fire TV Cube
The Amazon Fire TV Cube takes voice control to the next level for Alexa enthusiasts. It builds upon the strengths of the Fire TV Stick 4K and adds features that further enhance your hands-free entertainment experience. Unlike the Fire TV Stick 4K, the Cube boasts built-in far-field microphones. This means you don’t need to press a button, simply speak your commands from anywhere in the room, and Alexa will respond. The Cube takes Alexa integration a step further. Control compatible cable TV boxes and soundbars directly with your voice, eliminating the need for multiple remotes. Enjoy deep integration with Prime Video, Amazon Music, and other Amazon services with support for 4K HDR streaming. The Cube caters to casual gamers with access to a decent selection of mobile-optimized games. If you crave an ultimate voice-controlled entertainment experience, the Fire TV Stick Cube is a worth-buying contender. However, the price is higher than the Fire TV Stick 4K, which is $139.99 but totally worth it.
Tivo Stream 4K
The Tivo Stream 4K caters to users who prioritize live TV alongside a basic voice control experience in an affordable price point. Pricing only $39.47, the Tivo Stream 4K integrates with Google Assistant for basic voice control. Press the dedicated button on the remote, speak your commands and search for live TV shows, launch apps, adjust volume, or control some compatible smart home devices. However, functionality might be limited compared to dedicated smart home hubs but it does not really matter if you don’t own any smart home device. It also provides access to popular live TV streaming services like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV, while supporting 4K streaming for compatible services and on-demand content. It is a good option for cord-cutters or cable subscribers looking for additional streaming options, but may not be suitable for those seeking extensive voice control, top-notch gaming, or smart home integration features.
Realme 4K Smart Google TV Stick
The Realme 4K Smart Google TV Stick offers a compelling option for those seeking a budget-friendly way to experience 4K streaming with the added convenience of Google Assistant voice control. Use your voice to search for content, launch apps, adjust volume, or even control compatible smart home devices, all hands-free. Use voice commands to launch apps, adjust volume, control playback (play, pause, rewind, etc.), or even turn on subtitles. If you have compatible smart home devices, you can control them through Google Assistant with your voice. For instance, dim the lights, adjust the thermostat, or check security footage. Compared to some high-end streaming devices, the Realme 4K TV Stick falls in a mid-range pricing of only $77.98, making it an attractive option for those users who are ready to spend a little for their convenience.
Nebula 4K Streaming Android TV Dongle
The Nebula 4K Streaming Android TV Dongle keeps things simple when it comes to voice control, offering robust processing with hands-free entertainment navigation. Priced at 89.99 USD, it integrates with Google Assistant, allowing you to ditch the remote for basic tasks. Using Google Assistant, easily search for content by title, actor, or genre with your voice. Control playback functions like play, pause, rewind, or fast-forward hands-free. Launch apps like Netflix or YouTube by voice command and adjust the volume by speaking at your desired level. Moreover, experience stunning visuals with 4K resolution and HDR on your 4K TV for vibrant colors and sharp details. While Google Assistant offers convenience, the voice control might not be as advanced as with some high-end devices. Complex commands or controlling smart home devices might not be supported. The Nebula offers affordability and basic voice control for core streaming functions. However, if you need advanced smart home integration you should opt for another device.
Xiaomi Mi Box S
The Xiaomi Mi Box S is a budget-friendly Android TV streaming device that offers voice control through Google Assistant. Enjoy your favorite content in stunning detail with support for 4K HDR streaming. Pricing only $59.99, it integrates with Google Assistant, allowing you to control some aspects of your entertainment hands-free. Search for movies, TV shows, or videos with voice commands. Control playback and volume hands-free. Launch streaming apps by speaking their names. Google Assistant may have limited voice control functions compared to high-end devices, especially for advanced tasks like controlling smart home devices or complex voice commands. The Xiaomi Mi Box S is a budget-friendly option for users who prioritize affordability and basic voice control for streaming. It delivers a decent 4K streaming experience with Google Assistant integration for hands-free search, playback control, and volume adjustment. However, if you crave extensive voice control functionalities or top-tier processing power for more demanding tasks, you might want to explore higher-end options.
Nokia Streaming Box 8010
Last but not least we have Nokia Streaming Box 8010. It offers a handful of smart features along with voice control to enhance home entertainment. It supports popular streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+. Google Assistant voice control adds convenience for accessing content and information with just a voice command. With this ability, you can control not only your media streamer but other compatible smart home gadgets as well. Moreover, Dolby Atmos and DTS support provide immersive surround sound for movies, gaming, and music. Wireless connectivity options include WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. Priced at €99.09 or approximately 120 USD, this device upgrades basic TV sessions with its advanced features. It is a good option for cord-cutters looking for a mid-range streamer with exception processing and basic voice control features.
Overview of Streaming Devices Compared- Performance, Voice Control, and Price
Here we have compared the above-mentioned devices and ranked them accordingly for your ease.
Rank | Name | Price (USD) | General Features |
1 | Nvidia Shield TV | 199.99 | Powerful streaming, excellent 4K HDR, cloud gaming, Google Assistant voice control, smart home hub functionality |
2 | Apple TV 4K | 129.00 | Excellent 4K HDR, Siri voice control, tight integration with Apple ecosystem, mobile game support |
3 | Roku Ultra | 99.99 | Excellent 4K HDR, user-friendly interface, dedicated voice remote with Google Assistant and Alexa, casual gaming, smart home integration |
4 | Amazon Fire TV Cube | 139.99 | 4K HDR streaming, Dolby Atmos, WiFi 6 Alexa voice control, affordable |
5 | Chromecast with Google TV 4K | 49.99 | 4K HDR streaming, Mirror casting, Google Assistant voice control, casual gaming, smart home integration |
6 | Nebula 4K Streaming Android TV Dongle | 89.99 | 4K HDR streaming, Google Assistant voice control (basic), affordable |
7 | Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K | 49.99 | 4K HDR streaming, Alexa voice control, affordable |
8 | Realme 4K Smart Google TV Stick | 77.98 | 4K HDR streaming, Google Assistant voice control (basic), affordable |
9 | Xiaomi Mi Box S | 59.99 | 4K HDR streaming, Google Assistant voice control (basic), affordable |
10 | Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ | 59.99 | 4K HDR streaming, Roku voice control, casual gaming, affordable |
11 | TiVo Stream 4K | 39.47 | Affordable, prioritizes live TV, basic Google Assistant voice control, limited smart home integration |
12 | Nokia Streaming Box 8010 | 120.00 | 4K HDR streaming, Google Assistant voice control (limited information), expandable storage, affordable |
Verdict
The search for the perfect voice-controlled streaming device is basically a journey of personal preference. We’ve explored the top 12 contenders, each offering unique strengths. However, the best pick depends on your needs and budget. Consider the features most important to you, either it’s affordability, processing power, smart home compatibility, or brand loyalty. With this guide, you can easily select the voice-controlled streaming device that can perfectly elevate your home entertainment experience to new heights. For a budget-friendly option, consider the Chromecast with Google TV or the Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ with excellent value and voice control basics. If top-notch performance, gaming prowess, and smart home mastery are your priorities along with voice control, the Nvidia Shield TV and Amazon Fire TV Cube are the best. For those already invested in the Apple ecosystem, The Apple TV 4K offers a seamless experience through Siri. But again, all this depends on your budget and what you expect from your device.