Roku vs. Firestick vs. Apple TV- What you should expect from different streamers

Streaming different films has become easy today thanks to the introduction of streaming devices. Some of the streaming players you can choose include Roku, Firestick, or Apple TV.

These are portable streaming devices that take entertainment to a higher level. Though all of them allow you to access different services, picking the right one for your home is often challenging. You should compare them to get one that can give you the best experience. During the comparison, you have to consider ease of use and the overall performance of each model. Here is everything you should know regarding Apple TV, Firestick, and Roku. Enjoy!

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

Roku vs. Firestick vs. Apple TV- How do they compare?

Design

One of the first differences that you will notice regarding these three streamers is their design. Both Roku and Firestick are stick-based streaming players that you can plug into one of the ports at the TV’s back. Apple TV is a big streamer that looks like a black box. Since it is a bit heavyweight, it is cumbersome to move around with. In terms of the design, Roku and Firestick are better than Apple TV.

Voice remote

Modern streaming devices offer voice control capabilities. You should expect this feature from all of the three streaming players. While Roku and Firestick feature the Alexa voice remote, Apple TV has a Siri remote. Even though both Alexa ad Siri remote are excellent at helping you search for content, the Siri remote delivers an enhanced experience. It gives you complete control of Apple TV. Most people find the voice remote of Apple TV more efficient than that of Roku and Firestick.

Memory storage

If you enjoy downloading different content forms, you should choose a streaming device with adequate memory storage. Apple TV stands out among the rest of the players since it offers up to 32 GB memory storage. You can even choose a version that has a maximum storage capacity of 64 GB. Both Firestick and Roku offer only 8 GB. In terms of memory, Apple TV is better than Firestick and Roku.

Roku vs. Firestick vs. Apple tv – A comparison overview

Roku

Roku Streaming Stick+ | HD/4K/HDR Streaming Device with Long-range Wireless and Voice Remote with TV Controls (Renewed)

• New 2017 model!
• Powerful, portable, exceptional wireless

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If you are searching for a streaming video player that can deliver HDR and 4K streaming, you should consider Roku. Many people choose this streaming device since it offers excellent video quality. It can give you access to different services, including Vudu, Amazon, and Netflix.

The manufacturer tries to make it easy to use. To set it up, you should plug it into the HDMI port behind the TV. Apart from the set-up, Roku comes with a visually simple interface. It allows you to customize the homepage according to your preferences. Roku is one of the streaming players that offer Dolby Atmos support.

As part of the package, the streaming device comes with a voice control remote. Feel free to talk to the remote if you wish to search for particular titles. This streaming device is quite popular due to the numerous apps it offers. It also has some features that are hard to find elsewhere, such as private listening through the Roku app.

Pros

• Offers HDR and 4K video
• Simple set up
• It is affordable
• Excellent video quality

Cons

• The menus look a bit dated

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Roku specs

Firestick

Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device with Alexa Voice Remote (includes TV controls) | Dolby Vision

• Cinematic experience - Watch in vibrant 4K Ultra HD with support for Dolby Vision, HDR, and HDR10+.
• Home theater audio with Dolby Atmos - Feel scenes come to life with support for immersive Dolby Atmos...

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Since Amazon introduced firestick, people started considering this streaming device over others due to its impressive performance. Firestick is popularly known for its voice control support. It comes with an Alexa voice remote, HDMI extender, power adapter, and USB cable.

Just like Roku, you should plug in firestick in the HDMI port at the back of your TV. The menu even shows you popular content that you should check out. Some of the services available through firestick include Netflix, Disney+. Now TV, Hulu, HBO Go, and Amazon Prime Video.

Apart from giving you access to apps, firestick also gives you a chance to play several games. Most users also like the speed and quality of video playback. The user interface impresses many, including new users. When it comes to the hardware, firestick uses a 1.7 GHz CPU and a memory of 8GB.

Pros

• It supports Dolby Vision, HDR10 and 4K
• Integrates with Alexa
• It is affordable
• The navigation is easy

Cons

• There is no Ethernet adapter included in the package.

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Fire stick specs

Apple TV

Most experienced users of streaming devices are always searching for advanced players. If you don’t mind paying a high amount for a quality streamer, you should consider Apple TV. Though this is among the highest-priced streaming devices, it can give you a polished streaming experience.

This streaming device is also compatible with Dolby Vision, HDR, and 4K TVs. Apart from the fantastic looking pictures, you will also like the sleek design of Apple TV and user-friendly remote. You can quickly go through the menu and choose any content you prefer. Since it works with Siri, it allows you to control it through your voice. It also contains a unique element known as Airplay that enables you to share photos wirelessly with your visitors.

In terms of the hardware, Apple TV does not disappoint. Unlike other streamers, this offers a memory of up to 64 GB. It also contains a powerful processor that ensures that you can navigate its interface and load the different apps within a short duration. Some of the apps you can access while using Apple TV include Now TV, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.

Pros

• It supports Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision
• The remote is quite responsive
• This streamer offers a clean and straightforward interface
• Adequate memory

Cons

• It is expensive

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Apple TV specs

Conclusion

Video streaming players are successful since they offer users a cheap way to access numerous content. Even if you have a conventional TV, you can convert it into a smart TV using a streaming device. Roku, Firestick, and Apple TV are some of the popular models that many people choose. Though all of them can keep you entertained, they contain unique features that make them different.

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

We realized that streaming players are target to different users. Apple TV is right for people who already have an Apple Ecosystem, while firestick is suitable for Amazon users. Roku, on the other hand, is excellent for people on a budget.

During our comparison, we were impressed with the numerous content Apple TV offers. It delivers not only excellent picture quality but also impressive sound. We also like the inclusion of the Airplay feature, more memory storage, and a fast processor. Though Firestick and Roku try to compete with Apple TV, they don’t offer the same level of experience as Apple TV. The great capabilities ofApple TVmade us choose it as the clear winner.

FAQs

Once I buy Roku TV, do I still have to pay for the channels?

This is not necessary since most of the channels are free.

Can I access YouTube TV through Apple TV?

Yes. This is one of the channels available here.