Roku vs. Fire tv – Boost your streaming experience

In only a few years, streaming video players have become quite popular. These have made it easy for many people to access different types of content from numerous channels.

Some of the biggest names are Roku and Fire TV. If you are not new to streamers, you may have heard about these devices. Manufacturers of both streaming video players keep on introducing new models that appeal to different people. Whether you prefer Roku or Fire tv, you can choose from the various models available. Since these two streamers compete against one another in the market, you should find out how they compare to select the best one for your home. That is where we come in. Our guide will give you enough details regarding each of these streaming video players to simplify your purchase. Enjoy!

What are the differences between Roku and Fire tv?

Roku vs. Fire TV – How do they compare?

Ease of use

If you prefer launching different apps on your mobile device, the Roku device should feel quite comfortable. This is an easy to use streaming device whose menu comes with different icons. It allows you to launch different streaming apps without experiencing any difficulties. The set-up of Roku is also a breeze.

Fire tv, on the other hand, is not the simplest streaming device you can buy. This suits people who are experienced with such streaming video players. It comes with a cluttered menu that can be confusing to some people. Most people find fire tv hard to navigate. Roku is, therefore, a more user-friendly streaming device compared to fire tv.

Content selection and apps

When it comes to content and apps, both fire tv and Roku are well equipped. Fire Tv, however, fails to support some of the services. Roku, on the other hand, offers a channel that supports numerous TV shows and movies. It even has videos intended for the young ones. This streaming device offers ad-based networks such as YouTube, SciGo, and CNET. It even lets you access a lot of free live channels.

Though fire tv also has an extensive app selection, most of the channels and supported movies need memberships. If, for instance, you wish to watch certain movies and TV shows, you should be ready to pay some cash for them. Roku is, therefore, a better option than fire tv since it offers more content at no extra cost.

Remote control

Having a remote control makes it easy for one to use a streaming device. Thankfully, both fire tv and Roku come with this feature. They are different in that Roku’s remote control features the traditional design while that of fire tv is ergonomically designed. The Roku’s remote control also comes with some short cut buttons and a jack function. You can use this feature to plug in headphones when you want to watch without disturbing anyone.

Most customers, however, like the stylish design of fire tv’s remote. This remote control has enhanced connection since it allows you to change channels without necessarily pointing at your device. It, however, differs from that of Roku since it lacks a headphone jack for private listening. Choosing Roku can, therefore, help you enjoy a better experience compared to choosing fire tv due to the inclusion of extra features such as a headphone jack.

Roku vs. fire tv – A comparison overview

Roku

Roku Streaming Stick | Portable; Power-Packed Streaming Device with Voice Remote with Buttons for TV Power and Volume (2018)

• Powerful and portable
• Voice remote with TV power and volume

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The simple interface of this streaming device makes it stand out among the rest. Roku can deliver HDR and 4K video streaming at an affordable price. Apart from the quality video, you will also enjoy the quick responses while using Roku. You can pick from at least 8 Roku models available in the market.  This streaming device also offers support for Dolby Atmos Audio.

This tiny device can easily plug into your smart TV. Since it is longer than some of the stick based streamers, you need adequate space at the back of your smart TV to accommodate it. If space is an issue, consider purchasing an HDMI extender. Roku also comes with power LEDs that keep on flickering when it gets commands from the remote control.

Its remote comes with hard corded buttons designed for different streaming services such as Hulu, PS Vue, Sling TV, or Netflix. The problem with these buttons is that you cannot customize them. On the plus side, Roku’s remote control also comes with a microphone. This makes voice search possible. Feel free to speak to your remote rather than simply pressing the available buttons.

Pros

• It is easy to use
• Offers lots of streaming services
• Voice search functionality
• It is budget-friendly

Cons

• It fails to support Dolby vision.

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Roku specs

Fire tv

Fire TV Stick streaming device with Alexa built in, includes Alexa Voice Remote, HD, latest release

• The #1 best-selling streaming media player, with Alexa Voice Remote (2nd Gen, released 2019).
• Use the dedicated power, volume, and mute buttons to control your TV, soundbar, and receiver.

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If you need a streamer that comes with advanced features, you should consider fire tv. This plays video in 4k ultra HD. It comes with a feature known as ASAP that monitors the movies and shows you like watching to get them ready for you the next time you tune in. This streaming device also features a voice remote, which lets you hit a button if you want to speak to your device.

Once you purchase fire tv, you should get a power adapter, the voice remote, a guide, and two batteries. Unfortunately, you have to buy the HDMI cable separately since it is not included in the package. Fire tvis one of the lightest stick based streaming devices available today. You should not experience any problems trying to mount it at the back of your smart TV.

This streaming device also comes with a remote app that you can access through an Android device. Once you access the app, you should be able to control it just like you use the remote. For instance, the app lets you search for content through your voice. If you like playing games on a big screen, you should consider this streaming device.

Pros

• It is budget-friendly
• The streamer is small and lightweight
• Supports both Dolby Atmos and Dolby vision

Cons

• It lacks the HDMI cable

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Fire TV specs

Conclusion

Would you like to minimize entertainment costs without giving up on your favorite TV shows and movies? If yes, you need to consider streaming devices. These are slowly replacing cable TV services since they are more affordable. Though there are a lot of streamers you can choose from Roku and Fire TV are quite popular. Though both of them are reliable streamers, they have some significant differences that we have outlined above.

Verdict: So, which is better? Roku or fire tv

Choosing the right entertainment device is quite crucial. After comparing Roku and fire tv, we found out that both streamers can deliver excellent performance. Roku, however, excels in different aspects. For instance, it offers an easy to use interface, numerous channels such as YouTube TV, and a remote that features a microphone jack. This, therefore, made us choose Roku as the clear winner.

FAQs

Does Roku support Alexa?

Yes. Feel free to connect this streaming device to the Alexa home speaker.

Which popular video services can you access through fire tv?

Sling, Netflix, Vue, and Amazon. Apart from watching videos, you can also play games and listen to music using this streaming device.