Our picks for the best streaming device to connect to your TV to stream video will help you figure out which one is right for your needs. We've reviewed nearly every streaming device and major smart TV system on the market today, including Roku, Google Chromecast, Amazon and Apple TV. With the exception of smart TVs that actually run streaming software from Roku, Google or Amazon, these add-on streaming devices often have simpler remotes, streaming dongles, more apps, better search and more frequent updates than the smarts built into your TV set. Roku, the biggest name in streaming hardware, has a $40 streaming device called the Roku Express 4K Plus that's taken the top spot on our list of the best streaming devices. It's $10 cheaper than the new Roku Streaming Stick 4K, yet is just as capable. Amazon's new Fire TV Stick 4K Max sets the bar for speed on a streaming device and offers plenty of features at a slightly more expensive $55.

It's all too easy to overlook the quality of the remote control when picking a streaming device, as I've written before. You might not realize it from the price tag, for instance, but the $180 Apple TV 4K has one of the worst remotes on the market. The slim design too easily slips between couch cushions, and its trackpad-based controls have a steep learning curve. Conversely, the $29 Roku Express seems like a great value until you realize that its remote lacks basic TV controls. What's a cord-cutter to do, then? If you're stuck with a bad remote, consider a third-party replacement instead of buying an entirely new streaming device.

There just happens to be a much better streamer available if you're willing to spend another $20. That would be the stellar Roku Streaming Stick, which for $50 includes a remote with TV volume and power controls, voice controls, and point-anywhere RF technology. If you plan to use your Roku for any decent stretch of time, you'll want those features. Still, the new Roku Express is more powerful than its predecessor, which in turn makes it passable enough to buy as a cheap gift, for use with a universal IR remote, or perhaps for TVs you don't intend to use very often. Compared to last year's model, it feels a little less like a compromise.

Fresh from last week's NASDAQ debut, blushing ingenue Roku is celebrating by refreshing its entire product line and rebooting the software that runs across all its devices. The new Roku boxes look promising, with updated specs and more affordable pricing. And those software enhancements are plentiful. If you use a Roku box for your HBOing, Plexing, and Netflixing, ice up the champagne and join the party. The biggest news is that the company's entire line of players will see a refresh, from Roku's basic streaming stick to its beefy 4K-capable home entertainment hub.

These streaming devices will make any TV smart for 50 or less. Streaming devices are all the rage these days, whether you're cutting the cord or just want to access services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO Now, Sling TV, or more on your TV. There are too many options, ranging in price from 30 up to nearly 200. But while the expensive options are nice, there are more cheap streaming devices than ever before. Here are all of our favorite options under 50, so you can pick the one that's right for you.