Streaming is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to consume content. Whether it’s videos, TV, music or games, there’s a strong chance that you’ll be able to find a service and a compatible device. Video platforms such as YouTube and audio services such as Spotify have transformed the way we spend our leisure time, and that shows no sign of stopping any time soon.
According to YouTube’s latest statistics, over 300 hours of video content is uploaded to the service every minute, almost 5 billion videos are watched every day, and over 1.3 billion people use YouTube. Similarly Spotify recently passed the 50 million paying user mark and boasts over 30 million songs, with an additional 20,000 being added each day.
That is a lot of content to consume, but what’s the best way to enjoy it? Take a look at CBR’s list of the best streaming devices to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your media.
Smartphone
Smartphones are probably the most ubiquitous method of streaming these days and according to Ericsson Mobil Report there will be 6.1 billion in the world by 2020. Dramatically faster 5G connections are also expected to arrive en-masse over the next few years, something which will certainly see our rate of content consumption sky rocket.
Currently smartphones can be used to stream videos and music from a range of different apps and browsers making them incredibly convenient. Apple Music, Spotify, Netflix and YouTube all have mobile apps capable of streaming high quality media, provided you have the connection for it. The fact you can carry all of this around in your pocket is just one of the many things that has made smartphones so overwhelmingly popular for streaming.
However, the downsides of the devices include the low tinny volume settings, unless you’re using headphones, and the relatively small screen sizes, hardly ideal for streaming the latest blockbuster. But of course media streaming is not the primary purpose of smartphones and these are the sacrifices made for portability.
Smart TV
Smart TVs are a fairly recent addition to homes, but they’ve helped to augment our living rooms with the simple addition of internet capable TVs. These TVs are now compatible with most of the media apps you’d expect to find on your smartphone but with a much, much bigger screen.
Smart TVs make an ideal viewing platform, especially for that new Netflix special you’re currently bingeing on, or if you want to browse YouTube from the comfort of your sofa it’s also possible to turn your phone’s YouTube app into a remote control in a few easy steps. Additionally, if you’re in possession of some heavy duty speakers, they can make an excellent 21st century replacement for a stereo system at parties by utilising the latest music streaming apps.
Naturally, a TV isn’t exactly the most portable device in the world, and they can get pretty pricey, especially towards the top end, but If you’re looking to build an anchored home entertainment system then a smart TV is a smart way to satisfy your streaming needs.
