Roku Ultra
If you want Voice Remote Pro and built-in Ethernet
Roku makes a lot of streaming devices, as do Amazon, Apple and Google . There are plenty of good options to chose from, but Roku’s devices remain our clear favorites thanks to their convenient features, impressive performance and affordable prices.
Devices range from the advanced Roku Ultra, which recently got some nice upgrades, to the affordable Roku Express, which you can snag for just $30. Roku also makes some of its own soundbars and speakers, which make it easy to build an all-in-one entertainment setup. We’ve spent hours over the course of months testing these devices side-by-side to help you find the right one for your home.
Best Roku Overall
Roku’s lineup can be confusing, and there are two streaming devices at the top of our list that are very similar. The first is the Roku Express 4K Plus. This small box sits next to your TV and is the cheapest Roku device that offers full 4K HDR streaming support, which generally makes it our favorite. Yes, it lacks Dolby Vision, but we tend to think that this isn’t too big of a deal, as the service only works with compatible TVs and doesn’t offer any real difference in picture quality over other HDR formats. All 4K TVs with HDR support multiple HDR formats and you most likely won’t be missing out on anything by skipping Dolby Vision.
That said, there are certain times of the year when the Roku Express 4K Plus isn’t the best buy. That’s because the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is often on sale for less and is therefore the better option. The Streaming Stick 4K is almost identical to the Express 4K Plus — the only difference is the shape of the device and the fact that the Streaming Stick 4K offers Dolby Vision support, which is what makes it slightly more expensive. We don’t recommend spending more money on something with Dolby Vision, but don’t be afraid to grab the Streaming Stick 4K when it’s the cheapest option.
Best Roku’s of 2023
The Express 4K Plus is one of the cheapest streaming TV options with 4K HDR. (Even if your current TV doesn’t support those formats, your next one probably will.) Thanks to the AirPlay update, this Roku device is one of the least expensive ways to connect your iPhone or other Apple device to your TV. It lacks Dolby Vision support, but we think most people will be fine without that.
This Roku streaming device is normally cheaper than the company’s Streaming Stick 4K and other 4K HDR streamers, so it’s usually our top Roku pick. It’s a great choice for those looking to get the most out of streaming without breaking the bank. Roku Express works with popular voice assistants Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant.
Read our Express 4K Plus review.
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a very close runner-up to the Express 4K Plus. It has most of the same features as our top choice, but also includes Dolby Vision support. Normally we don’t think that Dolby Vision is worth the extra cash, but if you prefer the streaming stick design — or feel like Dolby Vision is important — the Streaming Stick 4K is an excellent choice. If you’re debating between the two, our advice is to grab whichever model is currently cheapest.
Read our Streaming Stick 4K review.
Roku’s most expensive streaming box is more than twice the price of our top streaming device pick, but maybe you’ll appreciate its extra features enough to want the upgrade. The 2022 model still costs $100 and is nearly identical to previous versions, except it now comes bundled with the Voice Remote Pro.
But if you really love the remote and want to save a little money, you could try Roku’s other bundle, the $70 Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus, which also includes the Voice Remote Pro. The Streaming Stick 4K’s processor isn’t quite as beefy as the Ultra’s, but it can do nearly all the same tricks such as Dolby Vision HDR, and it costs $30 less than the 2022 Ultra.
Otherwise, the Ultra continues to deliver Dolby Vision video, faster responses than the Streaming Stick 4K, improved Wi-Fi and a wired Ethernet port — particularly welcome if your home Wi-Fi is overloaded.
Read our Roku Ultra (2022) review.
Looking for an audio upgrade as well as a new Roku? Check out the Streambar. This compact soundbar plugs into your TV’s HDMI ARC port, improving the sound for all of your sources from cable boxes to game consoles. The best part of this Roku player is that it’s also a 4K HDR-capable Roku streamer itself. We’ve found the Streambar easy to set up, and it sounds good for the size, particularly with dialogue. If you want stronger bass, however, consider adding Roku’s wireless subwoofer ($180).
Read our Roku Streambar review.
