Streaming Boxes vs. Streaming Sticks: Which Is Right for You?

Get Better Performance and More Features Than a Basic Streaming Stick

If you've been looking into streaming devices, you've probably heard about streaming sticks. But there's another option that might work better for you: streaming boxes. These are slightly larger devices that sit next to your TV instead of plugging directly into it. They offer more power and features than streaming sticks.

Think of it this way: if a streaming stick is like a basic phone, a streaming box is like a smartphone with more apps and faster performance.

Why Choose a Streaming Box Over a Streaming Stick?

Faster Performance: Streaming boxes have more processing power, so apps load quicker and you spend less time waiting.

Better Connection: Many boxes can plug directly into your internet router with an ethernet cable for the most reliable connection possible.

More Storage: Some boxes let you add extra storage for more apps and faster performance.

Better Picture Quality: Most streaming boxes support 4K video if you have a newer TV.

More Reliable: Because they don't get hot like sticks that plug into your TV, they tend to last longer and work more consistently.

When to Choose a Streaming Box

Choose a streaming box if:

• You watch a lot of TV and want the fastest, most reliable experience
• You have trouble with your WiFi connection in your living room
• You want the best possible picture quality
• You don't mind spending a bit more for better performance
• You have space next to your TV for a small box

Stick with a streaming stick if:

• You just want something simple and affordable
• You rarely have issues with your current internet connection
• You have limited space around your TV
• You want to easily move the device between different TVs

The Best Streaming Boxes for 2025

Here are our top recommendations for streaming boxes that work great with Starry internet:

1. Roku Ultra ($100)

Best for: People who want excellent performance without paying too much

What You Get:

• Access to over 500 streaming channels
• Voice remote with headphone jack for private listening
• Ethernet port for direct internet connection
• Lost remote finder (press a button on the box to make the remote beep)

Why It's Great:

• Simple menu that's easy to read
• Reliable performance that doesn't slow down
• Excellent customer support
• Works with Alexa and Google Assistant

"I upgraded from a Fire Stick to the Roku Ultra and the difference is amazing. Everything loads instantly now, and I love that I can plug headphones into the remote to watch TV late at night without waking my husband." - Barbara, age 68, Los Angeles

2. Apple TV 4K ($130-150)

Best for: People who use iPhones, iPads, or other Apple devices

What You Get:

• Excellent 4K picture quality
• Siri voice control
• Access to Apple's streaming service and iTunes movies
• Can display photos from your iPhone on your TV

Why Apple Users Love It:

• Works seamlessly with other Apple devices
• Very smooth, polished experience
• Can use your iPhone as a remote
• High-quality streaming with great picture

Good to Know:

• More expensive than other options
• Works best if you already use Apple products
• Limited to apps available in Apple's store

3. Amazon Fire TV Cube ($120)

Best for: Amazon Prime members who love voice control

What You Get:

• All major streaming apps
• Alexa built-in with excellent voice recognition
• Can control your TV's volume and power
• Free content if you have Amazon Prime

Voice Control Features:

• "Alexa, turn on the TV"
• "Alexa, play the news"
• "Alexa, pause this show"
• "Alexa, find comedies on Netflix"

Perfect if:

• You already use Amazon Prime
• You like controlling things with your voice
• You want to control your TV without finding the remote

4. Google Chromecast with Google TV ($50)

Best for: Budget-conscious users who want smart features

What You Get:

• All popular streaming apps
• Google Assistant voice control
• Personalized recommendations
• Can cast from your phone to the TV

Why It's a Good Value:

• Least expensive option with a remote
• Learns what you like to watch
• Works great with Android phones
• Simple setup and operation

Setting Up Your Streaming Box

Setup is straightforward and usually takes about 20 minutes:

1. Connect to your TV using the included HDMI cable
2. Plug in the power cord
3. Connect to internet (WiFi or ethernet cable)
4. Follow the setup steps on your TV screen
5. Sign into your streaming accounts (Netflix, Hulu, etc.)
6. Start watching

Each device comes with clear instructions and pictures. If you need help, customer support for each company can walk you through setup over the phone.

Connecting Directly to Your Internet

One big advantage of streaming boxes is that many can connect directly to your internet router with an ethernet cable. This gives you:

• More reliable connection than WiFi
• Faster streaming with less buffering
• Better picture quality especially for 4K content
• No interference from other devices using WiFi

If your TV is near your router, this direct connection can make a big difference in your streaming experience.

What About Internet Speed?

Streaming boxes work best with fast internet. Here's what you need:

• Standard HD: 5 Mbps
• 4K streaming: 25 Mbps
• Multiple TVs streaming: 50+ Mbps

Starry internet provides speeds up to 1 Gig, which is more than enough for multiple TVs streaming 4K content at the same time. Plus, our connection is designed specifically for streaming, so you won't experience slowdowns during peak hours.

The Money Factor

Streaming Box + Starry Internet vs. Cable:

Traditional Cable:

• Cable TV + Internet: $120-150/month
• Annual cost: $1,440-1,800

Streaming Box + Starry:

• Roku Ultra: $100 (one-time cost)
• Starry Internet: $50/month
• Netflix + Hulu: $25/month
• Annual cost: $1,000

You save $400-800 per year.

Getting Help

Need help choosing? Visit a Starry store where our team can explain how each streaming box works with our internet service and help you pick the best option for your needs.

Need setup help? Each streaming box company offers phone support. You can also ask a tech-savvy family member or friend to help - most enjoy showing off their knowledge.

Our Recommendation

For most people, we recommend the Roku Ultra. It offers the best combination of features, reliability, and value. It's easy to use, has excellent customer support, and works great with Starry internet.

If you're already invested in the Apple or Amazon ecosystem, their respective devices might be better choices. But if you just want something that works reliably and simply, Roku Ultra is hard to beat.

The Bottom Line

A streaming box gives you better performance and more features than a streaming stick for about $50-100 more. Combined with Starry's fast, reliable internet, you'll have a streaming experience that's better than cable TV at a fraction of the cost.

Ready to upgrade your streaming?

• Choose a streaming box that fits your needs and budget
• Make sure you have fast, reliable internet (call Starry at 1-888-STARRY-1)
• Enjoy better TV with lower monthly bills

Questions about how streaming boxes work with Starry internet? Visit our website or call us. We're here to help you get the best streaming experience possible.