Roku has long been a favorite in the streaming device arena, and for good reason. Since its inception over a decade ago, Roku has consistently delivered a user-friendly experience with access to a vast library of content. Having personally tested numerous streaming players, I consistently return to Roku for its unparalleled support for live TV channels and an extensive selection of streaming channels. With Roku, accessing over half a million movies and TV shows is a breeze. What truly sets Roku apart is its intuitive software, making content discovery seamless regardless of where it’s streaming. Roku efficiently aggregates free, rental, and purchase options, ensuring you find exactly what you’re looking for, effortlessly.
If you’re navigating the choices within the Roku lineup, the sheer number of models, many with subtle differences, can feel overwhelming. This guide is designed to simplify your decision-making process. We will meticulously compare Roku devices, breaking down features and offering clear recommendations to help you select the perfect streaming player for your needs. Crucially, remember that every Roku device shares the same core operating system and channel access. The fundamental Roku experience remains consistent across all models.
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 with TV controls | Voice Remote with TV controls | Voice Remote Pro (2nd edition) Backlit, always listening, TV controls, personal shortcuts, rechargeable batteries | Simple Remote | Voice Remote with 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 | X | X | ✓ | X | X | X |
| HDMI Cable Included | ✓ | ✓ | X | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Alt text: Roku Ultra 2024 streaming device and its advanced Voice Remote Pro on a wooden table, with a TV in the background.
Top Pick: Roku Ultra (2024) – The Best Streaming Device for Most Users
After extensive hands-on experience with the entire Roku player lineup, the new Roku Ultra 2024 emerges as the most compelling choice for the majority of users. 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 excels in every critical area, offering stunning 4K streaming with both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support, lightning-fast WiFi 6 (802.11ax MIMO) wireless connectivity, and the top-of-the-line Voice Remote Pro (2nd Gen).
The Roku Ultra (2024) is a pioneer in the Roku family, being the first to incorporate WiFi 6 technology. This upgrade translates to enhanced network performance with superior throughput and extended range. Coupled with a significantly faster processor, the Ultra provides a noticeably smoother and more responsive user interface compared to any other Roku player. Navigation is snappier, apps load quicker, and streaming starts almost instantly.
The included Voice Remote Pro (2nd Gen) is a standout feature, solidifying its position as Roku’s best remote to date. It’s distinguished by its convenient backlit keys, enabling effortless control in dimly lit environments. Furthermore, it operates on a rechargeable battery (via USB-C), offering approximately a month of usage on a single charge, eliminating the need for disposable batteries. Retaining the always-listening functionality of its predecessor, the Voice Remote Pro allows for hands-free voice commands. Simply say, “Hey Roku, where’s my remote?” to activate the remote finder, or use voice commands to search for content, control playback, and more. Adding to its versatility, the remote features two customizable shortcut buttons that can be programmed to execute any voice command, providing quick access to your favorite functions or channels.
As Roku’s flagship streaming player, the Ultra is engineered to support the widest range of video and audio formats. Beyond HDR10/10+, it boasts Dolby Vision for exceptional picture quality and Dolby Atmos for immersive audio. Uniquely, the Roku Ultra is the only model in the current lineup that supports Bluetooth headphone pairing for private listening, a feature highly valued by users who want to enjoy content without disturbing others.
The boxy design of the Ultra might be a slight drawback for users who prefer the stick form factor’s discreetness, like that of the Streaming Stick 4K. However, the enhanced performance and features of the Ultra more than compensate for its slightly larger footprint.
For those seeking the ultimate Roku experience, the new Ultra surpasses all other models, making it an easy and strong recommendation as the best Roku player for most households.
Price: $99.99
Alt text: Roku Express streaming device discreetly mounted behind a TV with its simple remote control displayed on the console.
Best Value Streaming: Roku Express – Affordable Streaming in Full HD
If you own a non-4K TV or are prioritizing budget-consciousness, the Roku Express is an outstanding choice. It delivers the same user-friendly Roku interface found in the more premium models, ensuring a seamless and intuitive streaming experience. The included remote, while basic in design, provides convenient direct access buttons to popular streaming services, simplifying navigation. Roku prioritizes user-friendliness, making the Roku Express incredibly easy to set up right out of the box. It comes bundled with an HDMI cable and batteries for the remote, ensuring you have everything you need to get started immediately. A thoughtful addition is the included adhesive strip, allowing you to discreetly mount the Express to the back or bottom of your TV, minimizing cable clutter and maintaining a clean setup.
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, the founder of Techlicious, has been a leading voice in exploring and reporting on the most exciting and impactful developments in science and technology. Prior to establishing Techlicious, Suzanne held prominent positions as the Technology Editor for Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia and the Senior Technology Editor for Popular Science. Her expertise has been featured on major news networks including CNN, CBS, and NBC.
Topics: Streaming Device Guides & Reviews, Music and Video Streaming, Video Streaming Players, Streaming Services, Top Picks for Streaming
