Learn Spanish Online Websites

We run down the top 5 best set top box options that answer the age-old question, “What’s the best way to watch on my TV?” These set top boxes are all solid options for Netflix junkies and TV fans who are looking to “cut the cord” with their cable company.

1. Apple TV

In the video above from the team at Netflix, you can see a walkthrough that will help you understand how to watch Netflix on TV using the Apple TV setup.

The Apple TV offers one of the better Netflix interfaces available on a set top box. TV shows are organized cleanly by season, unlike some other set top box interfaces that simply list episodes in order without season breaks.

The Apple TV is also great for Netflix fans because of the robust browsing options it offers. You can easily view top actors or the director who made a certain movie, allowing you to quickly determine what other films or TV shows the person was involved with. Some users also feel that the Apple TV interface for Netflix offers superior recommendation options compared to other interfaces on different set top boxes.

In addition to its great Netflix interface, the Apple TV is appealing because of its AirPlay streaming capabilities, built-in rental options for new releases, and wide array of channels. You can read a review of the Apple TV .

Pros:

Gorgeous interface

Rarely crashes, compared to some other set top boxes on the market

AirPlay makes iOS device mirroring painless and fast

Fast and easy to get started

Cons:

Interface pushes iTunes content

Jailbreaking may be required to unlock coolest features

Lacks support for some popular channels, including Plex and Amazon Instant Video (though Airplay provides workarounds for “missing” channels)

Remote can sometimes accidentally activate nearby Apple devices or computers

Apple movie rentals are very expensive

2. Roku Streaming Stick

In the CNET video above, you can see a comparison of the Roku Stick against Chromecast.

Dual-band wireless N connection

Also great for viewing your personal photos and videos

Cons:

Won’t work with standard TVs, unlike older Roku models

Somewhat “” compared to other Roku offerings

Does require MHL

Local network sharing can be difficult to set up

Tiny size makes it easier to accidentally lose

3. Amazon Fire TV

Learn more about the Netflix interface on the Amazon Fire TV by watching the video above.

Amazon’s Fire TV has a whole host of cool features, but the most exciting to most people is the voice search: no more tiresome input with a limited remote. Additionally, the ASAP algorithm system intelligently “guesses” what you will watch next, and pre-loads that content to reduce buffering time. You can read some reviews of the Fire TV .

The Netflix experience on the Fire TV can be frustrating for some. In of this streaming set top box, writer Molly Wood noted:

Pros:

Offers extensive parental controls

Intelligent search features

Will soon have a game library that outclasses any other streaming set top box (though not quite as impressive as a “real” gaming console)

Cool voice search functionality

Streaming video is fast and beautiful

Games library is not fully stocked yet

Good device, but not enough features to convert people from other set top boxes they already own

Voice search doesn’t always pull up correct request

Controller for enjoying video games will set you back an additional $40

Reviewers have had generally positive things to say about the Netflix experience on Chromecast. wrote:

Does not support a number of desirable channels: ESPN, Showtime Anywhere, Bloomberg TV, and Amazon Instant Video, most notably

Some users will miss interacting with a physical remote, since raised buttons on a remote make it easier to feel what you’re doing

Some users have experienced issues with screen mirroring

For slightly more money, you can get a Roku stick with more channels and (what some people would argue is a) better interface

Some users have reported issues with audio lag

5. PlayStation 4

The video above compares the Netflix apps on the PS4 and the Xbox One.

While the PS4 isn’t exactly a set-top box, it is a wonderful option for cord cutters and Netflix addicts. It’s far more expensive than your average set top box or HDMI TV dongle, but that extra money scores you a great next-gen gaming console with an impressive library of quality games. The PS4 hosts a large collection of , in addition to Netflix.

If you’re huge into gaming and Netflix binge sessions, this console is the best way to experience Netflix on your TV. notes one great features that will appeal to Netflix fans: the DualShock 4 controllers supports typing shortcuts, making it easier to search for movies or TV shows.

Pros:

Slightly cheaper than buying an Xbox One with a Kinect

Large library of new games, plus the ability to play old games

Starting , PlayStation Now will launch a streaming game service

Top-rated controller that has gotten great reactions from gamers and critics

Tons of other entertainment apps besides Netflix

Cons:

People who live in areas with limited Internet service may not be able to get the most out of their console

Has some playback and streaming

Unlike Xbox One’s Netflix app, the PS4 version of the app can’t be snapped to the side

Cheaper than the Xbox One, but more expensive than sticks or set top boxes

Some gamers prefer the content that’s exclusive to the Xbox One

If you’re looking for a more detailed breakdown of which boxes support other streaming apps besides Netflix, offers a guide for which set top boxes have Hulu, Crackle, Redbox Instant, Vevo, Vimeo, VUDU, YouTube, and more.

In the video above from Gigaom, you can get some tips on how to optimize your Netflix streaming experience.

Considering getting someone an electronics gift? Check out our section for tons of great gift recommendations, or visit our ultimate guides to the best and .