Search Results
Products are chosen independently by our editors. Purchases made through our links may earn us a commission.

BEST ROKU OF 2026

Updated
Updated
BEST OF THE BEST
Roku Ultra
Roku
Ultra
Roku Ultra 2024
Premium 4K Streaming Device
Check Price
Check price at Amazon
Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Exceptional picture quality
  • Fast performance
  • Versatile remote
  • Private listening feature
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • Requires stable internet connection
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
Roku Streaming Stick 4K+
Roku
Streaming Stick 4K+
Roku Streaming Stick 4K+
Compact 4K Streaming Stick
Check Price
Check price at Amazon
Pros & Cons
PROS
  • High-quality streaming
  • Portable and easy to install
  • Great for Apple users
CONS
  • No Ethernet port
  • Limited local playback options
Roku Streambar Pro
Roku
Streambar Pro
Roku Streambar Pro
Soundbar & Streaming Device
Check Price
Check price at Amazon
Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Excellent audio quality
  • Integrated streaming device
  • Expandable sound system
CONS
  • Bulkier than standard streaming devices
  • Higher price point
Roku Express 4K+
Roku
Express 4K+
Roku Express 4K+
Affordable 4K Streaming
Check Price
Check price at Amazon
Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Affordable
  • High-quality streaming
  • Easy to install
CONS
  • No Ethernet port
  • Limited advanced features
Roku Express
Roku
Express
Roku Express
Basic HD Streaming
Check Price
Check price at Amazon
Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Very affordable
  • Reliable streaming
  • Easy to set up
CONS
  • No 4K or HDR support
  • Basic remote
BEST OF THE BEST
Roku Ultra
Roku Ultra 2024
Processor: Quad-core
Resolution: Up to 4K
Audio: Dolby Atmos
Connectivity: HDMI, USB, Ethernet, Bluetooth
Voice Control: Yes

The Roku Ultra 2024 is Roku's top-tier streaming device. It offers the best streaming experience with stunning 4K, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+ support, ensuring vibrant and lifelike picture quality. The device is equipped with a powerful quad-core processor, ensuring quick and smooth navigation and channel loading.

It comes with a voice remote featuring personal shortcut buttons, TV controls, and a headphone jack for private listening. Moreover, it supports Bluetooth streaming, allowing you to play content from your mobile devices onto the TV.

The Roku Ultra 2024 also includes a lost remote finder and a USB port for local media playback, making it the ultimate streaming device for enthusiasts.

PROS
  • Exceptional picture quality
  • Fast performance
  • Versatile remote
  • Private listening feature
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • Requires stable internet connection
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
Roku Streaming Stick 4K+
Roku Streaming Stick 4K+
Resolution: Up to 4K
Audio: Dolby Atmos
Connectivity: HDMI, Wi-Fi
Voice Control: Yes

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ provides a powerful streaming experience in a compact form factor. It supports 4K, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+ for high-quality video streaming. The device is incredibly easy to set up; just plug it into your TV's HDMI port, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming.

It comes with an upgraded voice remote that includes personal shortcut buttons, TV controls, and a built-in lost remote finder. The Streaming Stick 4K+ also supports AirPlay and HomeKit, making it a great choice for Apple users.

Its compact size makes it perfect for wall-mounted TVs or for taking on the go.

PROS
  • High-quality streaming
  • Portable and easy to install
  • Great for Apple users
CONS
  • No Ethernet port
  • Limited local playback options
Roku Streambar Pro
Roku Streambar Pro
Resolution: Up to 4K
Audio: Dolby Audio
Connectivity: HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Voice Control: Yes

The Roku Streambar Pro combines premium audio quality with the power of a 4K streaming device. This all-in-one unit enhances your TV's sound with rich Dolby audio while streaming your favorite content in up to 4K resolution.

The Streambar Pro is designed to fit seamlessly in front of your TV, providing clear dialogue, powerful bass, and a room-filling sound experience. It comes with a voice remote that includes TV controls and personal shortcuts.

With built-in Bluetooth and support for Spotify Connect, you can also play music directly from your mobile device. Additionally, the Streambar Pro supports Roku's wireless speakers and subwoofers to create a full surround sound system.

PROS
  • Excellent audio quality
  • Integrated streaming device
  • Expandable sound system
CONS
  • Bulkier than standard streaming devices
  • Higher price point
Roku Express 4K+
Roku Express 4K+
Resolution: Up to 4K
Audio: Dolby Atmos
Connectivity: HDMI, Wi-Fi
Voice Control: Yes

The Roku Express 4K+ is an affordable option that doesn't compromise on quality. It supports 4K, HDR, and HDR10+ streaming, providing a clear and vibrant picture. Setting up the device is straightforward: simply connect it to your TV via HDMI, connect to Wi-Fi, and you are ready to stream.

The Express 4K+ comes with a voice remote that includes TV controls, allowing you to manage your TV's power and volume. It's a cost-effective solution for users who want to upgrade their streaming experience without breaking the bank.

The compact design makes it easy to install and ideal for smaller spaces.

PROS
  • Affordable
  • High-quality streaming
  • Easy to install
CONS
  • No Ethernet port
  • Limited advanced features
Resolution: Up to 1080p
Audio: Dolby Audio
Connectivity: HDMI, Wi-Fi
Voice Control: No

The Roku Express is a budget-friendly option for those who want to stream their favorite content in HD. It provides a reliable streaming experience with access to a wide variety of channels and apps. The setup process is simple: connect the device to your TV via HDMI, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming.

The Roku Express comes with a standard remote that includes essential controls for navigating your streaming content. While it doesn't support 4K or HDR, it offers a solid streaming experience at a very affordable price.

It's an excellent choice for secondary TVs or for users who are new to streaming.

PROS
  • Very affordable
  • Reliable streaming
  • Easy to set up
CONS
  • No 4K or HDR support
  • Basic remote

How our picks compare

SpecificationRoku Ultra Roku Streaming Stick 4K+Roku Streambar ProRoku Express 4K+Roku Express
Processor Quad-core----
Resolution Up to 4K Up to 4K Up to 4K Up to 4K Up to 1080p
Audio Dolby Atmos Dolby Atmos Dolby Audio Dolby Atmos Dolby Audio
Connectivity HDMI, USB, Ethernet, Bluetooth HDMI, Wi-Fi HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi HDMI, Wi-Fi HDMI, Wi-Fi
Voice Control Yes Yes Yes Yes No

Understanding Roku Devices

Roku offers a range of streaming devices, each designed to cater to different user needs and budgets. The main types are Roku Express, Roku Premiere, Roku Streaming Stick+, Roku Ultra, and Roku Streambar. Each model has its own set of features and capabilities, which we will explore in more detail.

Roku Express

The Roku Express is the most basic and affordable option in the Roku lineup. It is designed for users who want a simple and cost-effective way to stream content. The device supports HD streaming and comes with a straightforward remote. It is a great option for those who do not require advanced features and are primarily looking to access popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+.

Roku Premiere

The Roku Premiere offers a step up from the Express, providing support for 4K and HDR content. This makes it a good choice for users with 4K TVs who want to enjoy higher resolution and better picture quality. The Premiere is still relatively affordable and provides a good balance between price and performance.

Roku Streaming Stick+

The Roku Streaming Stick+ is designed for users who value portability and ease of use. It plugs directly into the HDMI port of your TV and comes with a voice remote, allowing you to search for content and control your TV using voice commands. The Streaming Stick+ supports 4K and HDR streaming, making it a strong contender for users who want high-quality streaming without the need for a larger device.

Roku Ultra

The Roku Ultra is the top-of-the-line model, offering the most features and the best performance. It supports 4K, HDR, and Dolby Vision, ensuring the highest quality video playback. The Ultra also includes an Ethernet port for a more stable internet connection, a USB port for local media playback, and a remote with a headphone jack for private listening. This device is ideal for users who want the best possible streaming experience and are willing to invest in a premium product.

Roku Streambar

The Roku Streambar combines the functionality of a streaming device with a soundbar, providing both enhanced audio and streaming capabilities. It supports 4K and HDR content and offers improved audio quality compared to standard TV speakers. The Streambar is an excellent option for users looking to upgrade both their streaming device and their TV's sound system in one go.

Evaluating Your Needs

When choosing the best Roku device for you, consider the following factors:

  1. TV Compatibility: Ensure the Roku device you choose is compatible with your TV's resolution. If you have a 4K TV, you will want a device that supports 4K streaming, such as the Roku Premiere, Streaming Stick+, or Ultra.

  2. Internet Connection: Consider your internet connection. If you have a stable Wi-Fi connection, any Roku device should work fine. However, if your Wi-Fi is unreliable, the Roku Ultra's Ethernet port can provide a more stable connection.

  3. Portability: If you plan to use the device in multiple locations or want a compact option, the Roku Streaming Stick+ is a great choice due to its small size and ease of installation.

  4. Audio Quality: If you are looking to improve your TV's audio quality, the Roku Streambar is an excellent choice as it combines streaming capabilities with enhanced sound.

  5. Budget: Your budget will play a significant role in your decision. The Roku Express is the most affordable option, while the Roku Ultra and Streambar are at the higher end of the price spectrum. Choose the device that offers the best features within your budget.

Conclusion

Selecting the best Roku device involves understanding the various models and matching their features to your specific needs. Whether you desire a basic streaming solution, high-quality 4K content, portability, or enhanced audio, Roku has a device that can meet your requirements. By considering your TV compatibility, internet connection, portability needs, audio preferences, and budget, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a seamless streaming experience.