If you’re shopping for an external streaming device, you’ve no doubt come across Roku streamers. If these easy to use and versatile streamers are on your shortlist, you might be wondering which one is right for you and your situation.
Which Roku should I choose?
There’s a few different Roku models out there, so how do you choose. We’ll take a look at which Roku is right for you when it comes to the Roku Premeire, Roku Express and Roku Streaming Stick +. By the way if you want to read the full review of these devices, click here.
Roku has been one of the leaders when it comes to external streaming devices, and it’s also making TV operating systems too for manufacturers like TCL.
What all Roku devices have in common
Each of these devices is similar to some extent. They are external devices made to connect to your home’s Wi-Fi to let you access streaming TV like Netflix and Prime Video, or free alternatives like The Roku Channel and YouTube.
Each device comes with the iconic Roku Remote which allows you quick access and control over your device, or you can download and use the Roku Remote app if you prefer a smartphone for control. That app also offers private listening where you can redirect the audio to headphones if you wish.
So, which one you choose will have less to do with the features on the Roku operating system and more to do with some key choices you’ll need to make. Let’s dig in.
Roku Decision 1: TV resolution
The first thing to look at when deciding which Roku you need is the resolution of your TV. The resolution of course is the number of pixels in the screen that makes it look wither grainy or ultra sharp. Older TVs tend to be HD or even SD resolution, while newer TVs are usually 4K resolution.
If you have an older TV that’s HD, you need only the HD-capable Roku Express.
If you have an older TV but plan to upgrade soon, you should choose a Roku streamer that has 4K resolution since it will work just fine with your older TV now anyway. In this case, the Roku Premiere or Streaming Stick + are your go-tos, depending on some of these other factors.
If you already own a 4K TV then you need the 4K-ready Roku Premiere or Streaming Stick +, an Express won’t deliver the resolution you need.
Roku Decision 2: Speed & distance
Depending on where your TV is in proximity to your Wi-Fi router, you might need a more powerful streamer. If it’s relatively close, the Premiere or Express should do you fine. If you’ve got some distance to cover, maybe up a few flights, you should choose the Roku Streaming Stick +. It’s got the ability to boost signals and still deliver on speeds needed for 4K video streams.
Roku Decision 3: Price/Budget
The last major choice you’ll make is your budget. Not surprisingly the HD-only Roku Express is the most inexpensive Roku streamer, followed by the Premiere, and the Streaming Stick+ is at the top of the pile.
Depending on your budget, you can choose accordingly. You can click these links to shop now and view current pricing on the Roku Premiere, Roku Express and Roku Streaming Stick +.
If you want to read the full review of these devices, click here.
