There are a lot of set-top box options out there, but if we're being honest, most of us just want access to Netflix, Hulu, and maybe a couple other services without using the junky built-in apps on our TVs. The Amazon Fire TV Stick will let you do just that without the need for yet another box. Powered by a dual-core processor, it's no slouch despite its tiny size and low cost, packing 1 GB of RAM, 8 GB of storage, support for Dolby Digital Plus surround sound, and, for Prime members, access to a huge library of premium content, totally free. Just plug it in, connect it to Wi-Fi, and go.
Google's Chromecast is a great way to beam stuff from your Android to your TV, but some people have wished for something more — something like an Android console. The Google Nexus Player is exactly that. This sleek circular black box connects to your TV via HDMI, includes a simple remote with voice search, features a powerful Intel Atom processor and fast 802.11ac wireless networking, supports a wide range of apps and games, and for the latter, even supports dedicated controls for a precise gaming experience.
The original BeoVision Avant TV was certainly impressive — but at 55 inches, it was a little small for some tastes. The Bang & Olufsen BeoVision Avant 85 should fix that. Measuring 85 inches diagonally, this 4K Ultra HD set offers all the slick features that made its little brother so compelling, including a 3-channel speaker system that folds out on demand, the ability to expand to a full, wireless 7.1 surround system, 2D local backlight dimming for outstanding picture quality, and three sleek mounting options — on the wall, on the floor, or on the table — that are all motorized to give you the ideal viewing angle.
