But what streaming unit should you grab to plug into your television and replace your cable box?

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What Is a Streaming Stick?

Rokuand Amazons Fire TV platforms are two of the most popular hardware options available.

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All streaming devices require active internet connections and strong Wi-Fi signals within your home to operate reliably.

Many streaming media platforms, such as Netflix and Hulu, require an active subscription.

Roku vs. Amazon Fire TV Streaming Sticks

What Features Do Streaming Sticks Have?

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Well discuss multiple factors around each unit and provide recommendations.

For example, for a while, Max wasnt available on Roku, while Peacock wasnt on Fire TV.

Luckily, thats been fixed.

Special features are slightly different.

Common Audio and Video Features

Audio and Video Support

Is your television HD or 4K UHD?

This will help determine which Roku or Fire TV streaming stick is right for you.

All 4K UHD streaming stick options from Roku and Amazon arecompatible with HDRand Dolby Vision.

Where Rokus streaming sticks fall short is with their audio support.

On Amazons side, Fire TV Stick,Fire TV Stick 4KandFire TV Stick 4K Maxall support the technology.

Fire TV Stick Lite is the only option that doesnt.

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But youll likely prefer to use the included hardware remote for ease.

While the remote controls are similar, they do have slight differences.

Amazons Fire TV Stick remotes are nearly identical, except for its cheapest model, theFire TV Stick Lite.

While all other remotes feature dedicated volume control buttons, the Stick Lite does not.

But wed rather you not spend extra money if you dont need a feature.

However,free services are availablefor those who want to save money while enjoying great TV shows and movies.

Before setup, youll need to ensure your home has anactive internet connectionwith a stable Wi-Fi signal.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change.

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon.

This content is provided as is and is subject to change or removal at any time.

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Michael Archambault is a senior writer with The Penny Hoarder, specializing in technology.

Robert Bruce contributed to this report.