Fire TV vs. Roku vs. Apple TV – Choose a powerful and smart streamer

Reports reveal that more than 20 million Americans have turned to media streamers and ditched cable services. Streaming devices such as Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV are always in high demand since they take entertainment higher.

These streaming devices can make your work easy since they give you access to so many apps, even those that don’t exist in most smart TV models. Though a streaming device can bring convenience to your home, getting the right one is not always easy. We decided to review popular options such as Fire TV, Roku, and Apple TV to save you time and end any confusion. Read on!

What are the differences between Fire TV, Roku, and Apple TV?

Fire TV vs. Roku vs. Apple TV- How do they compare

Design

Fire TV is a cube-shaped streaming device that glows blue from time to time. It comes in a compact design that prevents it from occupying a lot of space. Both Roku and Apple TV maintain a flat design. Though both are square-shaped streamers, many people don’t like the bulky design of Apple TV. In terms of the design, Fire TV is more elegant and portable than Roku and Apple TV.

Connectivity options

You should check the ports that streaming devices come with before making a purchase. Both Roku and Apple TV include an Ethernet port, but Fire TV lacks this feature. Choosing Fire TV can therefore limit you to only a wireless connection. Since Apple TV and Roku include an Ethernet port in their devices, they offer more connection options than Fire TV.

Remote

An excellent streamer should offer a well-equipped remote. All three streaming devices contain different kinds of remotes. For instance, Fire TV comes with an Alexa voice remote while Apple TV has a Siri remote.  Roku’s remote includes a finder function, programmable shortcut buttons, and a headphone jack. It is, therefore, more equipped than what both Fire TV and Apple TV offer.

Performance

Choosing a high performing streamer can prevent you from frustrations. Apple TV is a better performer than both Fire TV and Roku since it contains a 10X fusion processor. It also offers more storage capacity than Roku and Fire TV.

Fire TV vs. Roku vs. Apple TV – A comparison overview

Fire TV

Get a media streamer that can give you hands-free control. Amazon ensures that this Fire TV cube has voice search capabilities so that you can give your TV voice commands every time you want to switch a program. The packaging includes an Alexa voice remote with different features such as playback controls, mute, and volume buttons. Your only task is to press one of the buttons on the remote and speak into the available microphone.

This device comes as a cube that contains some sharp edges. You will notice the Amazon logo on the front part of the streaming device and a bar that lights up from time to time. Most people like the elegant design of the Fire TV and its connectivity options. This streaming box can help you access sports channels, premium channels, and even live TV. It provides a storage capacity of 16 GB to help you download lots of content.

Pros

• Comes with Alexa voice remote
• Easy to install and use
• Adequate storage capacity
• It supports both 4K and HDR10 formats.

Cons

• It lacks an Ethernet port.

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Fire TV specs

Roku

Roku Ultra | Streaming Media Player 4K/HD/HDR with Premium JBL Headphones

• New! Disney+ and Apple TV are now streaming on all Roku devices
• Power, picture, performance: Roku Ultra lets you stream free, live and premium TV over the Internet;...

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The powerful remote that this streaming device comes with is one reason it stands out among other brands. Roku streaming device has a remote that contains shortcut buttons that you can program and a headphone jack that you can use to enjoy private listening. Roku media streamer comes in a flat design and looks like a rounded square. Just like its competitor, it contains the Roku Logo on the top part.

If you tend to lose TV remotes frequently, you will like the remote finder feature in the Roku streamer. This ensures that the remote beeps every time it gets misplaced. Unlike some streaming devices, Roku contains an Ethernet port. It also comes with a connector and HDMI port. Since the package does not include an HDMI cable, you should consider buying it separately. Though this streaming device has impressive features, you cannot use it to control any smart devices in your home. You should expect a good viewing experience while using Roku since it supports 4K and HDR content.

Pros

• The remote features finder function and headphone jack
• It is user-friendly
• Has an Ethernet port

Cons

• It does not include an HDMI cable.

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Roku specs

Apple TV

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Enjoy quality streaming on your smart TV by equipping it with Apple TV. This is a streaming device that can deliver impressive detail. It offers not only 4K resolution but also supports HDR. Choosing Apple TV can help you enjoy vibrant colors regardless of the specific app you are using. It is also among the few streaming devices that offer the iTunes store.

Many users like the way the manufacturer has improved the tvOS interface. Since this streaming device contains a 10X Fusion chip, you should not be worried about its performance. It allows you to search for content and open apps fast. You can even use it to play games without experiencing lag issues. The black box can easily plug into a smart or non-smart TV and provide it with enhanced features. You should also notice an Ethernet port included in the back part of this streaming device.

Apple TV is also unique since it comes with a Siri remote that enhances control. You can use it to conduct voice searches or even control games. If you enjoy downloading content, you should consider Apple Tv since it has storage of up to 64GB.

Pros

• It offers more than enough storage
• Has a 10X fusion processor
• 4K and HDR support
• Excellent Siri remote

Cons

• It is expensive

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Apple TV specs

Conclusion

Though streaming devices can be confusing, assessing your needs can help you pick a good one. Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV are always competing for the best positions in the market. Each of these three is unique in its own way.

Verdict: So, which is better? Fire TV, Roku, or Apple TV

After carefully comparing them, we discovered that Apple TV has better performance and more capabilities than its competitors. We also liked the additional storage capacity in this streaming device and its ability to deliver detailed images and vibrant colors. The manufacturers of Roku and Fire TV still have a lot to do to outdo this streaming device. We, therefore, choose Apple TV as the clear winner.

FAQS

What is the difference between the Fire TV cube and the Fire TV stick?

The first one is a cube-based streamer, while the other is a stick based streamer. The Fire TV cube also offers more storage than the Fire TV stick.

Can I access YouTube TV through Apple TV?

Yes. This is one of the streaming services available on this player.