These days, you can stream media on practically any device that connects to the internet, from “smart” TVs to gaming consoles. But when it comes to devices dedicated to streaming, Roku is one of the biggest players on the market, offering a variety of inexpensive devices, TVs, and boxes that can play app-based media. The spectrum of Roku devices, of which there are many, can be overwhelming if you’re new to the brand’s products, so we’re breaking down all the top Roku devices, their capabilities, and what you can expect to pay. Here’s what you need to know before switching to Roku in 2021.
What is Roku?
Roku offers a line of devices you can use to download entertainment apps and watch content from all the best streaming services, including Hulu, HBO Max, Disney Plus, and Netflix (though YouTube TV might soon disappear). Roku TVs come with the Roku OS and streaming capabilities built in. Roku also sells a line of boxes–devices that can connect to your TV via HDMI or wireless.
Roku isn’t designed to be part of an existing ecosystem. So if you’re an Amazon Prime subscriber and/or have an Alexa device, for example, you may want to opt for a Fire Stick instead of a Roku. Similarly, the Apple TV 4K is designed for integration with Apple products, which makes it a great option for those who already have an iPhone in their pocket and an Apple Watch on their wrist. For people who aren’t particularly invested in either Apple or Amazon products, however, Roku devices can be a cheap and reliable option.
Roku devices and compatibility
Roku boxes
Roku offers a variety of boxes, ranging from $30 on the low end to $180 at the most expensive.
The Roku Express is the cheapest option at $30. This box is the most basic Roku product and only supports streaming in HD, making it the only Roku device incapable of 4K resolution and HDR. The Roku Express comes with the device itself, an HDMI cable, and a simple remote without voice search capability.
The Roku Express 4K+ is one step up at $40. This is a slight upgrade over the Roku Express, boasting 4K and HDR, plus a remote with voice search. This device connects wirelessly, with no HDMI needed. The Roku Streaming Stick+, on the other hand, plugs into your TV’s HDMI port and costs $50. It’s also capable of 4K and HDR, but is smaller and more portable than any other Roku device. Like the Express 4K+, the Roku Streaming Stick+ comes with a voice search-enabled remote.
The Roku Ultra is a major step up in terms of quality and price, but it comes with a higher list price of $100. With a quad-core processor, the Roku Ultra is fast and boasts 50% greater wireless range than cheaper Roku devices. Its other features include Bluetooth, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, private listening, and a lost remote finder. The Roku Ultra includes USB and Ethernet ports as well. Its remote is voice search-enabled and has programmable shortcut buttons.
Roku also sells a pair of Roku-enabled soundbars. The cheaper of the two options is the Roku Streambar ($130), which can connect to TVs and Bluetooth-enabled devices. The Roku Streambar is designed to amplify dialogue volume and dampen commercialsVenir de Tragamonedas Gratis Online. Its remote is also voice-search enabled. On the pricey end of the spectrum, the Roku Streambar Pro retails for $180 and has all the benefits of the basic Streambar, plus virtual surround sound and programmable shortcuts on the remote. Both soundbars are designed to be easily supplemented by additional speakers.
Some of these Roku devices rank on our list of the best streaming devices you can buy, including the best budget streaming device (Roku Express HD) and the best 4K streaming device (Roku Streaming Stick+). So if you’re on the fence about which Roku device is right for you, those are the top two we’d recommend.
