Our verdict: best for simplicity
The easiest home screen to learn, the widest range of prices and no lock-in to one phone or speaker brand.
What we like
- Clean, predictable app-grid home screen
- Wide range of devices at every price
- Works across Apple, Android, Alexa and Google homes
- Free live and on-demand channels via The Roku Channel
Things to consider
- Home screen now includes more promoted content than before
- Less deep smart-home control than rivals
- Budget models can feel slow with heavy apps
Home screen and ease of use
Roku's biggest strength is its home screen: a simple grid of the apps you've installed, which you can rearrange. There's a menu on the left and a promoted area, but your apps stay front and centre. That makes Roku the platform we'd hand to someone who has never used a streaming device, or to a household where several generations share the TV.
Remote and voice
Roku remotes are simple, with shortcut buttons for popular services and a voice button on most models. Roku Voice handles searches and basic controls. Many Roku devices can also be controlled by Alexa or Google Assistant speakers, and some support Apple Home, which is rare on the other platforms.
Casting from your phone
Many current Roku models support Apple AirPlay, so iPhone users can send video and photos to the TV. Android users can use screen mirroring on supported devices, and many apps let you cast from your phone to the Roku app directly.
Apps and content
All the major services are available, including Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max and Peacock. The Roku Channel adds free, ad-supported movies, shows and live channels.
Which Roku should you buy?
Roku sells HD and 4K streaming sticks, a premium set-top box with better Wi-Fi and an Ethernet port, and TVs with Roku built in. If your TV is 4K, choose a 4K model. If your router is far from the TV, a box with Ethernet is the more reliable option. Check Roku's current lineup for model names and prices.
Who should buy Roku
Choose Roku if you want something simple, if your household uses a mix of phones and speakers, or if price matters most. If you're deep in Apple, Amazon or Google's ecosystem, the platform from that company may integrate more smoothly.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay a monthly fee for Roku?
No. There's no Roku subscription fee to use the device. You pay only for the streaming services you choose to subscribe to, and many channels are free.
Does Roku work with iPhone?
Many Roku models support Apple AirPlay, which lets you share video and photos from an iPhone or iPad. Check the model's specifications to confirm.
Is a Roku TV the same as a Roku stick?
They run the same Roku software. A Roku TV has it built in, while a stick or box plugs into a TV you already own.
Related reviews
Our reviews are based on manufacturer specifications, publicly available information and the features of each platform at the time of writing. Features, models and prices change; confirm details with the manufacturer before buying. Roku is a trademark of its owner. JZX Stream is not affiliated with or endorsed by the manufacturer.
We don't offer technical support. For account, billing, sign-in or repair issues, use the official website or app of your device maker or streaming service. Setting up a streaming device never requires paying a fee to a third party, calling an unknown number or allowing remote access to your computer.