Choosing the right streaming device can be overwhelming, especially with numerous options available. If you’re in the market for a Roku player, you’ve likely noticed a range of models, each with slightly different features and price points. As a long-time user and tester of Roku devices since their inception over a decade ago, I understand the appeal. Roku stands out for its extensive support for live TV channels, a vast library of streaming channels, and an impressive catalog of over half a million movies and TV shows. Roku’s platform excels in content discovery, efficiently presenting free, rental, and purchase options across various streaming services.
To simplify your decision, this guide will Compare Roku Versions, breaking down the features of each model to help you determine the best Roku streaming player for your specific needs. It’s important to remember that regardless of the model you choose, you’ll experience the same intuitive Roku user interface and access to the full spectrum of Roku channels. The core Roku experience remains consistent across all devices.
Roku Streaming Player Comparison
| Feature | 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 |
| Form Factor | Stick-on receiver | Stick-on receiver | HDMI stick | Box | Soundbar | Soundbar |
| Video Resolution | Full HD 1080P | 4K with HDR 10/10+ | 4K with HDR 10/10+ | 4K with HDR 10/10+ & Dolby Vision | 4K with HDR, HDR 10/10+ | 4K with HDR 10 |
| Remote Control | Simple Remote | Voice Remote with TV controls | Voice Remote with TV controls | Voice Remote Pro (2nd Gen) Backlit, Hands-free voice control, TV controls, Personal shortcuts, Rechargeable battery | Simple Remote | Voice Remote with TV controls |
| WiFi Connectivity | WiFi 4 (802.11 b/g/n dual band) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac dual band) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac dual band MIMO) Power cable with extended range WiFi receiver | WiFi 6 (802.11ax dual-band MIMO) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac dual band MIMO) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac dual band MIMO) |
| Ports & Connections | 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 (via optional adapter), HDMI 2.0a (ARC), USB-A 2.0, Optical Audio |
| Audio Capabilities | Dolby Audio | Dolby Audio (pass-through), Volume leveling & Night mode | Dolby Audio (pass-through), DTS Surround (pass-through), Volume leveling & Night mode | Dolby Atmos (decode), DTS Surround (pass-through), Volume leveling, Night mode, Speech clarity, Bluetooth Private Listening | Built-in stereo speakers, Volume leveling, Night mode, Speech clarity, Bluetooth Private Listening | Built-in stereo speakers (enhanced), Dolby Audio, Volume leveling, Night mode, Speech clarity, Bluetooth Private Listening, Expandable audio |
| Remote Finder Feature | No | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Direct TV HDMI Plug | No | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| HDMI Cable Included | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Alt text: Roku Ultra 2024 streaming player and Voice Remote Pro on a table, showcasing its premium design.
Top Pick for Most Users: Roku Ultra (2024) – The Ultimate Roku Experience
For those seeking the best overall streaming experience, the Roku Ultra (2024) emerges as the top recommendation. While it sits at the higher end of the price spectrum at $99, the Roku Ultra justifies its cost with a comprehensive suite of features. It delivers stunning 4K streaming with both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support, ensuring vibrant and detailed picture quality. Equipped with the latest WiFi 6 (802.11ax MIMO) technology, it offers superior wireless performance, and it’s powered by Roku’s fastest processor yet, resulting in a remarkably smooth and responsive user interface. When you compare Roku versions, the Ultra clearly leads in performance and features.
The Roku Ultra (2024) distinguishes itself as the first Roku streaming player to incorporate WiFi 6. This advancement translates to improved data throughput and extended wireless range, minimizing buffering and ensuring a stable streaming experience, even with demanding 4K content. Combined with its enhanced processor, navigating menus, launching apps, and searching for content is noticeably faster and more fluid compared to other Roku players.
The included Voice Remote Pro (2nd Gen) is a significant upgrade. It’s the only Roku remote featuring backlit buttons, a crucial feature for nighttime viewing. Its rechargeable battery, conveniently charged via USB-C, eliminates the hassle of disposable batteries and lasts approximately a month on a single charge. Continuing the features of its predecessor, this remote offers hands-free voice control. Simply say, “Hey Roku,” to activate voice commands for searching, playback control, and even locating a misplaced remote with the “Where’s my remote?” command. Furthermore, two customizable shortcut buttons allow for quick access to frequently used commands or channels.
As Roku’s flagship device, the Ultra supports the widest array of video and audio formats, including Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, in addition to HDR10/10+. Notably, the Roku Ultra is uniquely equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, enabling private listening via Bluetooth headphones – a feature not found in other Roku models within this comparison.
The box design might be a matter of personal preference, as some users may favor the stick form factor of the Streaming Stick 4K. However, the Roku Ultra’s performance and feature set make it the definitive top-tier Roku player and an easy recommendation for users who demand the best.
Price: $99.99
Alt text: Roku Express streaming device discreetly mounted behind a TV with its simple remote control in view.
Best Value Streaming: Roku Express – Affordable and User-Friendly
For those who aren’t using a 4K television or are prioritizing budget, the Roku Express is an excellent entry point into the Roku ecosystem. It delivers the same user-friendly Roku interface found on premium models, ensuring a seamless navigation experience. The included remote, while basic, provides direct access buttons to popular streaming services for quick launching. Roku prioritizes ease of setup with the Express, including an HDMI cable and remote batteries in the box. A thoughtful addition is the adhesive strip, allowing you to neatly mount the Roku Express behind your TV, minimizing visible clutter. When you compare Roku versions on price, the Express is the clear winner for budget-conscious buyers.
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 provided expert insights into the ever-evolving world of technology. Her extensive background includes roles as Technology Editor for Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia and Senior Technology Editor for Popular Science. Suzanne’s tech expertise has been featured on major news networks like CNN, CBS, and NBC.
Topics: Guides & Reviews, Music and Video, Video Players & Recorders, Music & Video Services, Top Picks
