Streaming Media Players Statistics By Manufacturer and Shipment

Introduction

Streaming Media Players Statistics: The most essential function of a streaming device is to connect one’s shows, movies, and sports. However, it is also important to determine what features are needed. You need to know which one is the best device for your needs. For example, although many smart TVs have built-in apps for streaming, an independent streaming device makes the configuration even better.

Particularly for those who possess old smart TVs whose compatibility with some online platforms is only partial, this option seems particularly useful. Also, separate boxes can be equipped with various types of hardware that sound like this – Dolby Atmos support or faster navigation speed and so on, as well as 4K HDR streaming media players. Naturally, every single online service has its unique interface.

Editor’s Choice

• Roku Express 4K Plus is an affordable choice for a 4K HDR streaming media player, although it lacks Dolby Vision support.
• Roku Streaming media players Stick 4K offer Dolby Vision support and similar features to the Express 4K Plus but are typically more expensive.
• Chromecast with Google TV 4K lacks Dolby Atmos support and can have issues with search functionality and the “Continue Watching” feature.
• Approximately 82 million streaming media players were shipped globally in 2023. Shipments are expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% from 2021 to 2026, reaching 100 million units by 2026.
• The number of installed streaming media players is projected to hit 313.5 million by the end of 2026.
• As of February 2023, Roku leads with a 50% market share, followed by Samsung at 21%, Amazon at 13%, Apple at 5%, LG and Vizio at 4%, Xiaomi at 1%, and Chromecast at less than 1%.

Best Streaming Devices of 2024

#1. Roku Express 4K Plus

Roku is our favorite streaming media player system because it offers the most streaming app options, has a simple interface, and has an excellent search function. It is also a content-agnostic platform that does not favor one media streaming service provider over another.

One of the lowest-cost alternatives for 4K HDR in streaming media player television is Express 4K Plus. (Even though your current TV cannot stream in these formats, your next one will be able to.) With the recent AirPlay update, this Roku device is an affordable way of connecting it with your iPhone or any other Apple product on its respective display screen, thus making it one of the least costly choices available in terms of price. Furthermore, it costs less than the company’s Streaming media player, 4K Plus, and different kinds of HDR 4K devices, so this means it should be number one among all streaming media players.

Device

• Size: 3.4 x 1.5 x 0.8 inches (87.8 x 39.3 x 20.8 mm)
• Weight: 1.1 ounces (31 grams)

#2. Roku Streaming Stick 4K

Roku Streaming Stick 4K has the same basic interface, large application assortment, and remarkable search engine among Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu Plus, etc. Still, its special feature is compatibility with Dolby Vision. Most importantly, the main distinction between Streaming media player Stick 4K and Express 4K Plus is its stick-like structure along with Dolby Vision HDR support, which plausibly accounts for Streaming Stick 4K’s high prices in comparison to its counterpart Streaming Stick 4K.

Specifications

• Speech Remote: This remote allows you to operate the TV’s power, volume, and several other functions simply by talking.
• Dolby Vision and HDR10+: Experience vivid brightness and color.
• Design: Ideal for wall-mounted TVs and traveling.
• Easy Setup: Just plug it in, get connected to the internet and begin streaming.
• App selection: Supports significant streaming services like Hulu, Netflix, and Disney+, among others.
• Free content: The Roku Channel offers dozens of episodes of various television shows, and you can watch thousands of free movies.
• Compatibility: Works with AirPlay by Apple HomeKit. Google Home and Alexa are also compatible.

#3. Chromecast with Google TV 4K

Nevertheless, what moderately comes close to the performance of such streaming media players is represented by Chromecast with Google TV 4K streaming media player, although not the same quality as the arrangements mentioned before. The biggest smart device in Chromecast is Google Assistant, which uses voice search technologies, which is good when looking for something to see. It also boasts a commendable integration with Google services, like the Photos app and YouTube TV.

The interface is well-structured. It contains tabs for tailored recommendations, applications, and library content. Furthermore, the latest updates have improved user experience by creating separate sections for easier item finding and a new live feature specifically designed for YouTube TV customers. With the Google Assistant button, you can easily access voice requests, through which you can search for different types of content, including smart home management, or even ask any question. Search outcomes are nice overall, though certain features, such as extensive Google Map navigation, are somewhat restrained in their operations.

Specifications

• Video & Audio: Resolution: Supports up to 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160 pixels)
• HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HDR10+ support
• Audio: Dolby Audio, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus; does not support Dolby Atmos
• Wi-Fi: Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz)
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 4.1
• HDMI: HDMI 2.1
• Internal Storage: None (streaming device, no local storage)
• Voice Remote: Includes a voice remote with built-in Google Assistant for voice command.
• Buttons: Dedicated buttons for popular streaming services like Netflix and YouTube
• Device Size: 2.4 x 2.4 x 0.5 inches (61 x 61 x 12.8 mm)
• Weight: 1.8 ounces (51 grams)

#4. Chromecast with Google TV HD

Among all the high-definition-only streaming media players that are great for starters, Chromecast with Google TV HD takes the crown. For a low-priced streamer for a high-definition television set, this is the right choice for you. It is fast, and it uses the same shape as the remote control that comes with Chromecast. This remote control is used together with Google’s 4K system, making it operate without line-of-sight and effortlessly control the power, volume, and inputs of your television.

Specifications:

• Resolution: Supports up to 1080p HD (1920 x 1080 pixels)
• HDR: Supports HDR10 and HDR10+ (does not support Dolby Vision)
• Audio: Dolby Audio, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus; does not support Dolby Atmos
• Wi-Fi: Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz)
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 4.1
• HDMI: HDMI 2.1
• Storage: None (streaming device with no local storage)
• Remote Control: Includes a voice remote with built-in Google Assistant
• Operating System: Google TV (based on Android TV)
• Apps: Access to Google Play Store for app downloads
• Chromecast: Built-in Chromecast functionality for casting from mobile devices
• Power Supply: USB-C power adapter
• Device Size: 2.4 x 2.4 x 0.5 inches (61 x 61 x 12.8 mm)
• Weight: 1.8 ounces (51 grams)

#5. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023)

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023) is almost as fast as its predecessor when it comes to loading apps, and the system’s operation can be described as smooth or swift. Additionally, this device is equipped with Wi-Fi 6E technology and supports most of today’s playback standards, including Dolby Vision. For those who are integrated into the world of Amazon, it has a new “Ambience” mode that allows real-time delivery details to be displayed on your television set.

All popular streaming media player applications can work with Fire TV Stick 4K Max. Despite being critically bemoaned for years by some people for missing services, among other things, those who choose Amazon have their streaming service now equal to other big boys. Moreover, the interface is also very good.

Specifications

• Resolution: Supports up to 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160 pixels)
• HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HDR10 support
• Audio: Dolby Atmos, Dolby Audio, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus
• Wi-Fi: Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz)
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
• HDMI: HDMI 2.1
• Storage: None (streaming device with no local storage)
• Remote Control: Includes a voice remote with Alexa integration
• Operating System: Fire OS (based on Android)
• Apps: Access to Amazon Appstore and various streaming services
• Power Supply: Comes with a USB-C power adapter
• Device Size: 3.5 x 1.2 x 0.6 inches (89 x 30 x 15 mm)
• Weight: 1.8 ounces (51 grams)

The Best Overall Media Streaming Players

The Roku Express 4K Plus is made so by its content-agnostic approach, user-friendliness, availability of a broad range of apps, and effective search functionality. At times, it has been the most affordable device from Roku, and it supports 4K HDR streaming media players. But even though it does not have Dolby Vision support, such an omission is usually not a significant disadvantage because, in any case, this feature only works with selected televisions and does not provide any real improvement over ordinary HDR.

That said, there are moments when one may prefer to purchase something other than this streamer—the preferred alternative being the Sale-priced Streaming Stick 4K, which is cheaper than the Express 4 K Plus device. The Streaming Stick 4K has all the features of Express4K + and more, i.e., it supports Dolby Vision. However, unless the offer price drops below its invoice amount, purchasing such a streamer is not worth it because the value for money may not be fully realized in investment terms.

Streaming Media Players Devices By Manufacturer

• The dominion of North America’s leading streaming device is Roku, which accounted for half of its market share as of February 2023.
• Samsung put up 21% of it.
• Amazon accounts for 13%.
• Anecdotally, Apple occupies 5%.
• LG takes up 4 %.
• Vizio claims another 4%.
• 1% belongs to Xiaomi.
• Less than 1% point goes to Chromecast.
• Likewise, MXQ has been getting less than this share, too.

Streaming Media Device Shipment Statistics

• According to Streaming Device Statistics, approximately 82 million units were shipped globally for streaming media players in 2023, a moderate increase.
• The total shipment for these devices is set to rise at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1 % from 2021 to 2026, with an expected shipment of 100 million units by 2026.
• The installed base of streaming media devices (SMD) is expected to reach about 313.5 million by the end of 2026.

Conclusion

Modern home entertainment systems have come to depend on streaming media players. With various options available on the market today, consumers can choose a device that suits their needs and financial capacity. Whether you are in search of a basic device only for HD streaming or a high-end version that possesses more complex features, there is something for everyone among streaming devices. The demand for media players is also expected to increase as many people switch to streaming as their main form of viewing content.

These streaming media players’ evolution will allow them to acquire even more features and effectively integrate with other smart home technologies. A good investment for anyone who wants to up their entertainment game will be a reliable streaming media player.