We all plead guilty when it comes to binge-watching shows and movies during our free time.

Media streaming devices are a constant source of entertainment you can seek to cure your boredom or to simply chill. While some people already own a streaming device when they have a smart TV that can access a variety of streaming channels directly, others need streaming devices in order to watch their favorite shows on Netflix, Amazon, or Hulu on their television. These devices are convenient and easy to use and also offer some additional services. They are usually available at fair prices and connect quickly. You simply need to plug it to your TV, connect it to your wireless Internet, and you can use any media streaming services you want.

Choose a platform
Similar to your phone or laptop, even the media streaming device that you choose has its own operating system. It is essential that you choose the software that you are comfortable with and well aware of how it functions. Also, the other criteria is that the device you own should have your favorite content available. For example, if you are well versed with the layout of Apple’s operating system and want to watch movies and shows by purchasing via iTunes, then probably the 4K Apple TV is your choice. Before you commit to a streaming device ensure that you are able to run all the apps you want on it. Go through the device’s online listing where you can know the list of apps you can use on your device.

Compare the features it has to offer
When you are researching the device you want to purchase, it is also essential to be well-versed about the features it has to offer. These features come in handy depending on the screen you plan to watch the videos. While seeking the features, it is essential to especially consider the visual ones. Most of the streaming devices these days support 4K resolutions. Another feature to look for is the high dynamic range (HDR), this feature provides an improved color range of your picture and a better balance between the light and the dark of the image. Also, there may be some additional features that certain media streaming devices provide like a headphone port on the remote.

Ensure that you stick to your budget
When it comes to media streaming devices there is a huge price range available, varying from $30 to about $150. All offer a different set of features, compatibility specifications, and additional specifications that may have some extra cost. Setting a budget ensures that you don’t end up spending way more than what you planned while shopping for these devices. Try to find a fine balance between features and price in order to get the best value for money.

Some of the popular media streaming devices are Apple TV, Google Nexus Player and Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick, and Roku 3 and Streaming Stick.