When it comes to streaming devices, there are a near-endless number of great options on the market right now. With big players like Roku, Amazon, and even Apple all competing in the space, we wondered which of them stood out as the top-picked option. To help us better understand the landscape of how these devices are most used, which brand is at the top, and more, we did the best thing we could think of — we reached out to our amazing community of streaming enthusiasts.

Nearly 1,600 people took the time to respond to our survey and provided us with a wealth of incredibly useful insights. We’ve compiled all the results, and after looking through them, one thing was very clear: Roku has a big lead amongst our readers.

How people stream

When we asked what devices people are using to stream, the responses showed a clear preference for built-in convenience. Smart TVs are the dominant way people stream, with 62% of users having at least one. However, nearly half of the respondents, 47%, still rely on dedicated streaming sticks, showing that these add-on devices remain incredibly popular, especially for secondary TVs. Laptops and desktops also serve as a significant choice for 23% of users, indicating a flexible approach to viewing. Smartphones are used by 21% of people for their streaming needs, while game consoles are the go-to for 20%. Tablets are utilized by 17%, and traditional set-top boxes see the lowest usage at 5%.

This diverse array of hardware illustrates that while the all-in-one solution of a Smart TV is the top choice, specialized devices like streaming sticks still play a crucial role in many households. The continued relevance of sticks suggests that users might be seeking specific features, user interfaces, or performance that their Smart TV’s native system doesn’t offer, or they might be upgrading older, non-smart televisions. The consistent use of personal devices like laptops and smartphones also underscores the importance of on-the-go and multi-room viewing experiences for a considerable segment of streamers.

Note: This section allowed users to select multiple choices, which is why the results exceed 100% in total.

Top streaming device brands

In the battle of the brands for primary streaming device usage, Roku emerges as the clear frontrunner. A substantial 45% of our survey participants report Roku as their main streaming device, giving it a commanding lead in the market, according to our readers. Amazon’s Fire TV holds a strong second place, with 20% of users primarily using the tech giant’s hardware. Apple TV is the choice for 17% of respondents, showing a solid and dedicated user base. Chromecast is relied upon by 4% of those surveyed for their primary viewing, while the combined category of NVIDIA Shield, Onn, and other devices accounts for a notable 14% of users.

Roku’s significant lead, more than double its closest competitor, highlights its strong brand recognition and user satisfaction within our community. While Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV are significant players with loyal followings, they are currently competing for a share of the market that trails considerably behind the leader.

The “NVIDIA Shield / Onn / Other” category, encompassing 14%, also suggests that while the big names dominate, there’s a healthy segment of the market opting for alternative solutions, possibly seeking niche features or specific price points.

How long do people keep their hardware?

When asked how long survey participants have had their current streaming devices, the results were pretty interesting and pointed towards a longer-than-expected device lifecycle for many. Only a small fraction, 11% of respondents, have had their device for a year or less. The majority, 58% of people, have been using their current streaming hardware for a period of one to three years. Furthermore, a significant 31% of users have held onto, and been using, their existing streaming device for over three years.

This data signals that even with the constant rollout of new models boasting improved features and performance enhancements, such as Roku’s latest devices, consumers don’t seem overly compelled to upgrade their streaming hardware until they have to. It appears that as long as a device continues to function and support the primary streaming services they use, users are content to stick with what they have.

Unlike with other tech, like phones or computers, this suggests a market driven more by necessity, such as a device breaking or becoming unsupported, rather than a strong desire for the newest technology. Could this influence how manufacturers approach innovation and marketing for new hardware? We can’t say for certain, but judging by how infrequently Apple releases new Apple TV models, it could be the case.

Which brand would you buy for your next streamer?

Looking ahead to future purchases, Roku continues to be the top choice, indicating strong brand loyalty and sustained market leadership. If buying a new streaming device today, an impressive 42% of our readers would choose a Roku product. Interestingly, Apple TV shows a significant jump in consideration for future purchases compared to its current primary usage, with 18% of respondents saying they would opt for an Apple device next.

The direct selection of a “Smart TV” as the next purchase comes in at 15%, showing that many users are looking to integrate their streaming capabilities directly into their television. Amazon Fire TV would be the choice for 14% of participants for their next device.

The sustained preference for Roku in future purchases underscores its dominant position and positive user experience. Apple TV’s increased consideration suggests that its premium features and larger ecosystem integration are appealing to a growing number of potential buyers, even if they are not current primary users.

The notable percentage of users who would opt for a smart TV as their next “streaming device” purchase highlights a trend towards integrated solutions, potentially simplifying setups for users. Amazon Fire TV remains a consistent contender, though it sees a slight dip in future consideration compared to its current usage, while “Others” still capture 11%, showing continued diversity in the market.