Choosing the right streaming device can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. If you’re in the market for a Roku device, you’ve landed in the right place. Roku has been a leading name in streaming for over a decade, offering a wide range of devices to suit different needs and budgets. As a long-time user and tester of various streaming platforms, I consistently return to Roku for its user-friendly interface, extensive channel selection, and efficient content discovery.
Roku stands out because it supports more live TV channels than competitors and boasts thousands of streaming channels, providing access to over half a million movies and TV shows. What truly sets Roku apart is its software. It excels at aggregating content across different streaming services, making it easy to find exactly what you want to watch, whether it’s free, for rent, or for purchase.
Navigating the Roku lineup can feel daunting. There are numerous models, many with similar features, making it challenging to decide which one is the perfect fit. This guide is designed to simplify your decision. We’ll break down each Roku model, meticulously compare their features, and offer clear recommendations to help you choose the best device for your streaming needs. Importantly, remember that regardless of the model you choose, you’ll experience the same intuitive Roku user interface and access to the same vast library of channels. The core Roku experience remains consistent across all devices.
Roku Model Comparison Chart
| Roku Express | Roku Express 4K+ | Roku Streaming Stick 4K | Roku Ultra (2024 model) | Roku Streambar SE | Roku Streambar | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retail Price | $29.99 | $39.99 | $49.99 | $99.99 | $99.99 | $129.99 |
| Design | Stick-on receiver | Stick-on receiver | HDMI stick | Box | Soundbar | Soundbar |
| Video | Full HD 1080P | 4K with HDR 10/10+ | 4K with HDR 10/10+ | 4K with HDR 10/10+ and Dolby Vision | 4K with HDR, HDR 10/10+ | 4K with HDR 10 |
| Remote | Simple Remote | Voice Remote TV controls | Voice Remote TV controls | Voice Remote Pro (2nd edition) Backlit, always listening, TV controls, personal shortcuts, rechargeable batteries | Simple Remote | Voice Remote TV controls |
| WiFi | WiFi 4 (802.11 b/g/n dual band) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac dual band) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac dual band MIMO) power cable includes WiFi receiver for extra range | WiFi 6 (802.11ax dual-band MIMO) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac dual band MIMO) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac dual band MIMO) |
| Jacks | HDMI | HDMI | HDMI 2.0b | HDMI 2.1b (ARC), USB-A 3.0, Ethernet | HDMI 2.0a (ARC), USB-A 2.0, Optical Audio | Ethernet (with optional adapter), HDMI 2.0a (ARC), USB-A 2.0, Optical Audio |
| Audio | Dolby Audio | Dolby Audio (pass through) Volume leveling and night mode | Dolby Audio (pass through), DTS Surround (pass through) Volume leveling and night mode | Dolby Atmos (decode), DTS Surround (pass through) Volume leveling and night mode, speech clarity Bluetooth Private Listening | Built-in stereo speakers with 2 drivers and bass port Volume leveling, night mode, speech clarity Bluetooth Private Listening | Built-in stereo speakers with 4 drivers, expandable with Roku Wireless Bass and Roku Wireless speakers Dolby Audio with volume leveling and night mode, speech clarity Bluetooth Private Listening |
| Lost remote finder | X | X | X | ✓ | X | X |
| No separate box: plugs directly into TV HDMI | X | X | ✓ | X | X | X |
| HDMI cable included | ✓ | ✓ | X | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Roku Ultra 2024 streaming player with its advanced Voice Remote Pro, placed on a wooden table in front of a television.
Top Pick: Roku Ultra (2024) – Best Overall Roku Streaming Device
After extensive testing and daily use of all Roku players, the new Roku Ultra (2024) emerges as the best choice for most people. While it sits at the higher end of the price spectrum at $99, the Roku Ultra delivers a premium streaming experience that justifies the investment. It combines top-tier features like stunning 4K streaming with Dolby Vision and HDR10+, lightning-fast WiFi 6 (802.11ax MIMO) wireless connectivity, and the feature-rich Voice Remote Pro (2nd Gen).
The Roku Ultra (2024) is a significant upgrade, being the first Roku player to incorporate WiFi 6. This latest WiFi standard translates to enhanced throughput and extended range, ensuring a more stable and faster connection, crucial for seamless 4K streaming. Paired with its updated, faster processor, the Ultra provides a noticeably smoother and more responsive user experience compared to previous Roku models and competitors. Navigating menus, launching apps, and streaming content are all quicker and more fluid.
The included Voice Remote Pro (2nd Gen) is a standout feature and Roku’s most advanced remote to date. It addresses common user frustrations with two key improvements: backlit buttons and a rechargeable battery. Backlit keys are a game-changer for nighttime viewing in dimly lit rooms, while the rechargeable battery, conveniently charged via USB-C, eliminates the hassle and expense of disposable batteries, lasting up to a month on a single charge. Retaining popular features from its predecessor, the Voice Remote Pro includes always-on voice control for hands-free operation. Simply say “Hey Roku, where’s my remote?” to locate a misplaced remote, or use voice commands to search for content, control playback, and more. Additionally, the remote features two customizable shortcut buttons, programmable for any voice command function, providing quick access to your favorite features or channels.
As Roku’s flagship streaming player, the Ultra naturally offers the most comprehensive support for video and audio formats. Beyond HDR10/10+, it supports Dolby Vision for superior picture quality and Dolby Atmos for immersive, three-dimensional audio. Notably, the Roku Ultra is unique among Roku devices in offering Bluetooth headphone pairing for private listening, a feature highly valued by many users.
Learn more: Pair Your Bluetooth Headphones with Roku: A Step-by-Step Guide
The box design of the Ultra might be a minor drawback for those who prefer the stick form factor for ultimate concealment behind the TV. However, the performance and feature advantages of the Ultra easily outweigh this design preference for most users seeking the best Roku experience.
If you’re looking for the top-of-the-line Roku player and want the best possible streaming performance and features, the Roku Ultra (2024) is unequivocally the best option and easy to recommend.
Price: $99.99
Roku Express streaming device discreetly mounted to the back of a television with its included adhesive strip, alongside its simple remote control.
Best Value Roku: Roku Express – Budget-Friendly Streaming
For those who don’t own a 4K television or are streaming on a tighter budget, the Roku Express is an outstanding value proposition. Priced at just $29.99, it provides access to the same user-friendly Roku interface and vast channel selection as the more expensive models. The included basic remote, while simpler than Roku’s voice remotes, still provides direct access buttons to popular streaming services for quick navigation.
Roku prioritizes ease of setup, and the Roku Express exemplifies this. It comes complete with an HDMI cable and batteries for the remote, ensuring you have everything needed to get started right out of the box. A thoughtful touch is the included adhesive strip, allowing you to neatly mount the compact Express to the back or bottom of your TV, minimizing cable clutter and keeping your entertainment setup clean and organized. For users seeking a simple, affordable, and reliable streaming device, especially for older TVs or secondary rooms, the Roku Express is an excellent choice.
Price: $29.99
Updated on 9/24/2024 with the latest pricing and model information
[Image credit: Roku, Techlicious]
For over 20 years, Suzanne Kantra, founder of Techlicious, has been deeply involved in exploring and reporting on the most exciting and important developments in science and technology. Her extensive experience includes roles as Technology Editor for Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia and Senior Technology Editor for Popular Science. Suzanne is a respected voice in the tech world and has appeared as a technology expert on CNN, CBS, and NBC.
TopicsGuides & Reviews, Music and Video, Video Players & Recorders, Music & Video Services, Top Picks
