Deciding on a Roku media streamer? These essential questions will help you avoid costly mistakes when buying your first streaming device. For a broader comparison, check out Chromecast vs. Apple TV vs. Roku: Which Media Streamer Is Right For You? With options that transform your TV into an entertainment hub, choosing the right one is key. But how do you pick the best?
It's not straightforward—Roku has launched 24 models since 2008, ranging from major upgrades to subtle tweaks. A glance at the Roku Wikipedia page shows the variety. The current lineup includes five: the Roku Streaming Stick, Roku 1, 2, 3, and 4. Drawing from hands-on testing of these devices, I'll break down features to help you decide.
Note: All Roku devices share the same user interface. A pricier model won't unlock more channels than the 20 private Roku channels worth installing right now. Here's how to add private channels to your Roku.
Cost: $49.99 / £29
The entry-level Streaming Stick competes with options like Google's Chromecast or Android TV sticks. See Google Chromecast vs. Android TV Stick: Which Should You Buy? Unlike traditional set-top boxes, it plugs directly into your TV's HDMI port, powered via USB from the TV or wall outlet—perfect for space-constrained setups like wall-mounted TVs.
At $10 more than Chromecast, it includes a remote plus extras like Miracast support. What is Miracast? How to use it for wireless streaming. However, it has a slower processor, no Ethernet or USB ports (limiting wired connections and local media playback like Plex—your ultimate Plex setup guide).
Cost: $129.99 / £190
Roku's flagship, launched late 2015 (not yet in markets like the UK at the time), outperforms rivals like Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV. Its standout feature: 4K Ultra HD support. Is buying a 4K TV a waste right now?
Running Roku OS 7 with a voice-enabled remote, it offers "Play On Roku" for easy phone-to-TV casting, "My Feed" for new episode alerts, voice search, a lost remote finder, and optical audio output for soundbars.
Roku 1: $49.99 / £42
Roku 2: $69.99 / £54
Roku 3: $99.99 / £49
Skip the Roku 1—it's outdated. At the same price, the Streaming Stick is superior. It lacks Miracast, modern Wi-Fi, Netflix profiles, and screen mirroring (how to mirror Android to PC/Mac), but offers legacy A/V for old TVs.
Refreshed in 2015, Roku 2 and 3 share identical hardware: 1080p support, 900 MHz processor, Ethernet, USB, microSD ports (3.5" x 3.5" x 1", 5 oz).
The difference? Roku 3's remote adds headphone jack, mic for voice search, motion gaming controls, and Wi-Fi Direct (point-anywhere). The Roku app provides similar features for Roku 2 or Streaming Stick users.
Our recommendation, based on real-world use:
Own a Roku 2/3? Upgrading to Roku 4 isn't worth it for most—the gains are incremental. Visit Roku's site for side-by-side specs.
Which Roku do you own? What do you love (or want changed) compared to others? Share in the comments!
