Roku vs. Firestick vs. Chromecast – Eliminate the confusion of choosing the best streamers

The market contains streaming devices that make shopping for the best one a difficult task. If you are searching for one, some of the options you may have come across include Firestick, Roku, and Chromecast. Find out how they compare!

Streaming devices may have the same function but different features. Every manufacturer of such devices tries to create products with distinct features to make them stand out. If you enjoy watching content from Hulu or Netflix, you should focus on choosing a good streaming device that can give you the best experience. The competition between Roku, Firestick, and Chromecast keeps on getting stiffer every day. People choose either if these streaming devices based on the specific needs they want to fulfill. Comparing these streaming devices can help you find an ideal choice.

What are the differences between Roku, Firestick, and Chromecast?

Roku vs. Firestick vs. Chromecast- How do they compare?

Content

Though these three streaming devices are similar in different ways, the channels and apps available in each of them make them quite different. If you need a streaming device that offers the most channels and apps, you should choose Roku since it is better than both Firestick and Chromecast in this aspect.

Design

While both Firestick and Roku come in a stick design, Chromecast is not a stick. It is a circular-shaped streaming device that connects to the TV through a short cable. Since this streaming device does not stick out like stick based streaming devoices, you can easily plug it into a port when you don’t have a lot of space between the TV and your cabinet or wall. Due to the stick design of both Roku and Firestick, you need enough space to connect them to your smart TV. In terms of the design, Chromecast is a more modern looking and elegant streaming device compared to Roku and Firestick.

Remote

A remote is a useful feature in streaming devices. Unfortunately, Chromecast does not include this feature like Roku and Firestick. You can only control Chromecast from your smartphone. Though both Roku and Firestick come with remotes, the Roku’s remote is more efficient. This is because it comes with short cut keys for frequently used apps, a microphone button, and a headphone jack for private listening. The remote control for Firestick is limiting since it does not encourage private listening. This makes Roku a better option than both Firestick and Chromecast.

On-screen interface

Chromecast lacks this feature since it allows you to broadcast content from your computer to your smart TV. Though both Firestick and Roku have an on-screen interface, most users prefer that of Roku. This is because it is easier to figure out compared to that of Firestick. This streaming device also offers a robust search function. Most people find the on-screen interface of Firestick confusing. Roku is, therefore, more user-friendly than both Firestick and Chromecast due to its easy to navigate interface.

Roku vs. Firestick vs. Chromecast – 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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Get an all-round streaming device that can give you access to endless streaming services. Roku has always been a well-respected supplier of streaming devices for years now. This manufacturer keeps on producing different models to fulfill the needs of various clients. Most people enjoy the easy setup of this streaming device and the straightforward user interface. To use Roku, you only need to connect the device to your network. Once you do this, the on-screen interface becomes available to access any streaming service you want.

It comes with the Roku remote, which allows you to browse through the channels from the comfort of your couch. The remote lets you control the power of your device as well as the volume. When you are busy, you should use the voice control functionality available to search for content. Users also enjoy the excellent streaming quality of this device.

Pros

• Sleek design
• User-friendly interface
• Responds fast
• Delivers HDR and 4K video streaming
• Has a voice control

Cons

• The menu display is a bit outdated.

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Roku Specs

Firestick

Fire TV Stick streaming media player with Alexa built in, includes Alexa Voice Remote, HD, easy set-up, released 2019

• 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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Unlike most streaming devices, Firestick mostly focuses on the Amazon ecosystem. It is, therefore, suitable for Prime users. Once you connect this streaming device to your TV, you can start enjoying lots of content, including music, movies, or shows. Firestick also comes with a voice remote and is compatible with Alexa.

You can use this streaming device to control a smart home. Amazon has made it possible for this streaming device to be portable. If you travel frequently, you can bring your favorite content with you and enjoy streaming content using this device. Most people also like the elegant design of this streaming device. You should not experience any problems with the setup though the interface has a learning curve.

Pros

• It is affordable
• Elegant design
• Easy to set up

Cons

• Has limited storage and memory
• It limits you on the amount of content you can download
• You have to pay to access most content
• It does not accommodate non-Prime users.

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Firestick specs

Chromecast

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If you are looking for a unique streaming device, you should consider Chromecast. Unlike other models, this one allows you to cast content from your PC to a big screen. Apart from watching movies or TV shows, Chromecast is great for online gaming. This streaming device does not come with a physical remote. With this device, you have to use your smartphone as a remote control.

You can also broadcast any content from your browser to the TV. Chromecast is a multi-functional streaming device that many people enjoy using. When it comes to processing power, this streaming device is responsive. Its performance is, however, based on the connected device. If your device is not fast, you may not get the best streaming experience while using Chromecast.

Pros

• The setup is easy
• Supports both HDR and 4K streaming

Cons

• Limited features
• No remote control

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Chromecast specs

Conclusion

The only way you can enjoy the best streaming experience is if you find out how streamers differ. On the surface, Firestick, Roku, and Chromecast may seem quite similar, but they are not. Comprehending how they differ can help you choose a streaming device that can give you value for your cash.

Verdict: So, which is better? Roku, Firestick or Chromecast

After comparing these three devices, we discovered that they are meant for different customers. Though all of the streamers have some excellent features, Roku stands out since it offers the highest number of channels such as YouTube TV, a user-friendly interface, and 4K and HDR functionality. This streamer is also compatible with both Google Assistant and Alexa. Such enhanced capabilities made us choose Roku as the clear winner.

FAQs

Do I need an Ethernet adapter to use Chromecast?

Yes. Fortunately, you don’t have to buy the adapter separately since it is included in the packaging.

How much internal storage does Firestick come with?

This streaming device has storage of only 8GB. Some people find this to be a bit limiting.