When it comes to affordable and reliable streaming devices, Roku remains a top choice. Offering a variety of options, Roku caters to different needs, whether you’re seeking 4K streaming, Dolby Vision support, or a budget-friendly option. After thorough testing, we’ve rounded up the best Roku devices for 2025, considering user interface, content access, performance, and overall value for money.
Why Roku is a Top Choice for Streaming in 2025
For those seeking smart TV functionality without the hefty price tag of a smart TV, Roku presents an excellent solution. It delivers an intuitive user experience, seamless content access, and compatibility with smart home systems. While Apple and Amazon also offer strong streaming devices, Roku continues to provide impressive performance at an affordable price, making it an ideal choice for most users.
Top Roku Picks for 2025: Which One is Right for You?
Roku offers a wide selection of streaming devices ranging from the basic Roku Express to the feature-packed Roku Ultra. Below, we break down the best models for different needs to help you choose the one that fits your entertainment setup.
1. Roku Express 4K Plus: Best Overall Pick
Price: $30
Best for: Budget-conscious users who want 4K HDR streaming.
The Roku Express 4K Plus stands out as the best option for those looking for an affordable 4K HDR streaming experience. Despite its low price, it includes impressive features such as AirPlay support, which is particularly useful for Apple users. While it doesn’t support Dolby Vision, its HDR performance is still excellent, and most users won’t miss this advanced feature. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who wants to stream high-quality content without spending a fortune.
Why Choose Roku Express 4K Plus?
- Supports 4K HDR streaming
- Affordable pricing at just $30
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri
- Easy setup and reliable performance
2. Roku Streaming Stick 4K: Best for Dolby Vision Support
Price: $34
Best for: Users who want Dolby Vision and a more compact design.
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a close competitor to the Express 4K Plus, offering nearly identical features but adding Dolby Vision support for better HDR performance. If you value premium picture quality and want a more compact device that can easily hide behind your TV, this streaming stick is a solid option. Although the price difference is minimal, the Streaming Stick 4K provides a more advanced streaming experience.
Why Choose Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
- Offers Dolby Vision support for superior HDR
- Compact design that can be easily tucked behind your TV
- Great performance and value for the price
3. Roku Ultra 2022: Best for Premium Features
Price: $50
Best for: Users who want faster performance and additional features.
For those who seek additional power and enhanced features, the Roku Ultra 2022 is the ideal choice. While it’s almost double the price of the Roku Express 4K Plus, it includes a faster processor, Dolby Vision support, and a wired Ethernet port, which is especially useful for homes with unreliable Wi-Fi. The Voice Remote Pro, included with the Roku Ultra, offers a better remote experience with voice control, a rechargeable battery, and improved microphone functionality.
Why Choose Roku Ultra 2022?
- Faster performance and better processing power
- Includes built-in Ethernet for more stable connections
- Comes with Voice Remote Pro, offering advanced features like a microphone and remote finder
- Supports Dolby Vision for enhanced video quality
4. Roku Streambar: Best for Audio and Streaming Combo
Price: $127
Best for: Users who want both a soundbar and a streaming device in one.
The Roku Streambar is a great option for those looking to upgrade both their sound system and streaming setup. This compact soundbar connects to your TV’s HDMI ARC port and enhances audio quality while also serving as a 4K HDR streaming device. Though the soundbar isn’t the most powerful on the market, it does a good job, particularly when it comes to dialogue clarity. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to improve both sound and streaming, the Streambar is an excellent choice.
Why Choose Roku Streambar?
- Combines streaming functionality with an audio upgrade
- Compact and easy to set up
- Excellent dialogue reproduction, ideal for TV shows and movies
- Seamlessly integrates into home entertainment systems
5. Roku Voice Remote Pro: Best Remote for Enhanced Control
Price: $30
Best for: Roku owners who want a smarter remote experience.
The Roku Voice Remote Pro isn’t a streaming device, but it significantly enhances your Roku experience. Featuring a rechargeable battery and a 12-foot microphone for better voice control, this remote also includes a “Find My Remote” feature that helps you locate it when misplaced. It’s bundled with the Roku Ultra 2022 but can also be purchased separately for use with any compatible Roku device.
Why Choose Roku Voice Remote Pro?
- Rechargeable battery for eco-friendly use
- Advanced voice control and microphone capabilities
- “Find My Remote” feature to help locate lost remotes
Roku Devices to Avoid in 2025
Roku Express: Not Recommended for Most Users
Price: $25
Best for: Basic streaming on a tight budget.
The Roku Express is the least recommended Roku model for 2025. While it offers access to Roku’s platform, it only supports HD streaming (not 4K) and lacks essential features such as a voice control remote and the ability to power your TV. The basic remote requires line-of-sight to the device, which can be inconvenient. If you’re on a budget, we recommend the Chromecast with Google TV HD or opting for the Roku Express 4K Plus for a much better streaming experience.
How We Test Roku Devices
Our reviews of Roku devices are based on extensive hands-on testing. Each device is connected to multiple TVs, and we evaluate:
- Setup process: How easy it is to install the device and get it running.
- User interface: The ease and fluidity of navigating Roku’s software.
- Streaming performance: Whether the device supports 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, and offers smooth streaming.
- Remote functionality: How user-friendly and responsive the remote is.
- App access: The range and performance of streaming services and channels available.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Roku device for 2025 ultimately depends on your preferences and budget. For most users, the Roku Express 4K Plus offers the best combination of price and performance. However, if you’re looking for extra features like superior audio, faster performance, or Dolby Vision support, the Roku Ultra 2022 and Roku Streambar are excellent alternatives. With a Roku device, you’re sure to enjoy seamless streaming, a broad selection of content, and a user-friendly experience, all at an affordable price.
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Roku FAQs: Common Questions Answered
1. Can I Use Roku with Any TV?
Yes, Roku devices are compatible with most modern TVs that have an HDMI port. Whether you have a 4K, HD, or older TV, you can connect a Roku device easily through HDMI. However, if you’re using a TV without an HDMI port, you’ll need an HDMI-to-composite adapter to use Roku.
2. Does Roku Support 4K Streaming?
Yes, many Roku devices support 4K streaming, including the Roku Express 4K Plus, Roku Streaming Stick 4K, and Roku Ultra 2022. These devices are ideal if you have a 4K TV and want to take full advantage of ultra-high-definition content from streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus.
3. Is There a Monthly Fee for Using Roku?
No, Roku itself doesn’t charge a monthly fee. Once you purchase the device, you can stream content for free or subscribe to any paid services (like Netflix or Hulu) that you choose. Roku provides access to a vast range of free channels as well, like The Roku Channel, which offers a variety of movies, TV shows, and live content without any subscription fee.
4. What Streaming Services Are Available on Roku?
Roku is known for its wide range of streaming services. It supports all the popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and more. Additionally, Roku has partnerships with smaller, niche services, providing access to a huge variety of content.
5. Can I Play Games on Roku?
Yes, Roku offers a selection of casual games, but they are quite limited compared to dedicated gaming consoles. If you’re looking for simple games, Roku has options available to play directly on the device. Some Roku remotes also allow you to play certain games with motion control for added fun. However, if you’re seeking a more robust gaming experience, a gaming console would be more appropriate.
