8 Best Smart Tv Boxes 2025 in the United States

The Amazon Fire TV Cube (newest model) is a powerful smart TV box that excels in speed and performance, thanks to its octa-core processor and 2 GB of RAM. Its operating system is user-friendly and offers a seamless experience, especially with hands-free Alexa voice control, allowing you to control not just your TV but also other compatible devices like soundbars and receivers from across the room. The AI-powered Fire TV Search feature enhances the user experience by making it easier to find content based on various parameters like actors or plot lines.

With support for 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR, and Dolby Atmos audio, the Fire TV Cube provides an excellent viewing experience with vivid colors and immersive sound. Wi-Fi 6E ensures smoother streaming, which is particularly beneficial for households with multiple devices. Connectivity options are robust, including HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, USB-A, and Bluetooth 5.0, although the necessary cables are sold separately.

The device also supports a wide range of apps and services, giving you access to over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes, though some services may require additional subscriptions. Privacy features are strong, with options to turn off the microphone when not needed. On the downside, the internal storage is limited to 16 GB, which might be insufficient for users who download many apps or store a lot of content. Additionally, while the Fire TV Cube supports a variety of formats, not all content is available in 4K or HDR, and service availability can vary by region. The need for a separate Wi-Fi 6E router to fully utilize the latest Wi-Fi technology could also be a drawback for some users. This device is best suited for users who prioritize performance, voice control, and high-quality video and audio streaming in their smart TV experience.

The Roku Express 4K+ is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their TV to support 4K and HDR streaming. It delivers sharp resolution and vivid colors, making your viewing experience more enjoyable. The device is easy to set up—just plug it into your TV and connect to the internet. Its seamless streaming experience is backed by a fast wireless network connection, reducing buffering times and making navigation smoother.

The voice remote is a convenient feature, allowing you to control your TV, adjust volume, and search for content using voice commands. It supports popular voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google, enhancing ease of use. The customizable home screen lets you keep your favorite channels front and center, and automatic updates ensure you always have the latest features.

Additionally, it offers access to a wide range of apps and services like Netflix, Hulu, and live TV channels, expanding your entertainment options. However, it lacks internal storage for apps and may rely heavily on a stable internet connection for optimal performance. If your Wi-Fi connection is weak or inconsistent, you might face some streaming issues. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Roku Express 4K+ stands out as a reliable and user-friendly device that can significantly enhance your TV viewing experience.

The NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro is a top-tier smart TV box that excels in several key areas. It runs on Android TV version 11, which offers a user-friendly interface and wide app compatibility, making it easy to access popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Video, and Disney+ in stunning 4K HDR quality. The device boasts a robust 3 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage, which is adequate for streaming and basic gaming needs, with the option to expand storage via its two USB 3.0 ports. AI-enhanced upscaling is a standout feature, significantly improving the clarity of HD content when displayed on 4K screens. The inclusion of Dolby Vision and Atmos support ensures an immersive audio-visual experience for movie and TV show enthusiasts.

For gamers, the SHIELD TV Pro offers GeForce NOW cloud gaming, effectively turning it into a powerful gaming rig capable of streaming over 1000 titles, including those with advanced graphics features like ray tracing. In terms of connectivity, it supports Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet, providing flexible and fast internet options. The device also features built-in Google Assistant and is compatible with Alexa, enabling voice control for hands-free operation and smart home integration.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The internal storage of 16 GB might be limiting for users who plan to download a lot of apps or games, although this can be mitigated with external storage solutions. The initial setup and navigation might be a bit overwhelming for non-tech-savvy users due to the plethora of features and customization options. Additionally, while the device is highly capable, its premium price point might be a consideration for budget-conscious consumers.

The NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro is ideal for tech enthusiasts, gamers, and those who seek a high-quality streaming experience with advanced features like AI upscaling and Dolby Vision. It may be less suited for users looking for a simple and cost-effective streaming solution.