The Best Roku Devices of 2023

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So what is Roku? Roku is a popular brand for streaming devices and makes a wide variety of products. Not only can you get a traditional streaming stick or device, but Roku also makes its own branded Roku TVs and even soundbars and speakers. With any of these products, you get access to Roku's extensive library of apps, including favorites like Netflix, Hulu, Apple TV+, Disney+, HBO Max, and so much more.

Meanwhile, you'll even get the Roku Channel, a unique streamer within Roku that has a number of free TV and movies that are always rotating to constantly give you something new. 

If you don't already have a Roku and are considering getting one for yourself, or if you have one and want to try a different one, here are some of the best Roku streaming devices the brand has to offer. They include everything from the simplest device to Dolby Vision-powered streaming quality.

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1. Roku Streaming Stick 4K

• Best for: Small TVs
• Pros: Dolby Vision
• Cons: No Wi-Fi 6

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is Roku's upgraded stick device. It's just as compact as you'd expect, so it tucks right in behind your TV. It's perfect for even a small TV, as it's such a compact device.

This new-and-improved stick now supports Dolby Vision, which its predecessor did not. It's also outfitted for long-range Wi-Fi, which is useful in spaces where your TV isn't necessarily close to your internet source. 

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is capable of streaming HD, 4K, and HDR (High Dynamic Range), in addition to Dolby Vision. For picture quality, this device can support up to HDR10/10+ and HLG as long as your TV is properly equipped for it.

It also comes with a remote that you can use to control your entire TV. It's a simple remote with only the most necessary buttons, while it has voice control so you can use voice commands to find what you're looking for within the device itself. It works with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant.

This Roku device can also take advantage of private listening, simply by syncing with the Roku remote app on your phone. Plug in your headphones and listen to the TV through your phone for privacy. 

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K typically costs $50, though you may find it on sale for cheaper. Roku often runs its own sales, giving you discounts off the full price.

2. Roku Express 4K+

• Best for: 4K streaming on a budget
• Pros: Value for the price; comes with HDMI cord
• Cons: No Dolby Vision

The Roku Express 4K+ is a budget-friendly way to stream in 4K. For just $40, you get a small device that does a lot. Though it's not as discreet as the Roku Streaming Stick+, the Roku Express 4K+ is still pretty small.

This device is great for smaller TVs as it has the capability to stream HD, 4K, and HDR but diminishes in picture quality as your screen gets bigger and your need for higher resolution increases. It can support up to HDR10/10+ and HLG with a proper TV but is ideal for 4K TVs like the name suggests. 

One of the biggest perks about the Roku Express 4K+ is that it comes with an HDMI cord -- a great value and time-saver. It also comes with a remote that has voice control, plus the device works with Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant. It even works with Apple AirPlay.

This device also has dual-band Wi-Fi, which Roku notes makes for a smoother streaming experience. It can also be hooked up to an ethernet cable if you so choose, something that most other Rokus cannot do. You can also sync the TV with your Roku app and use your headphones for private listening. 

3. Roku Ultra

• Best for: Ultimate high-quality streaming
• Pros: Dolby Vision
• Cons: Pricey, bulky device

The Roku Ultra is the brand's top-line and most powerful streaming device. It clocks in at $100, but it does get you that coveted Dolby Vision streaming quality. Though this device is larger than Roku's other offerings, it comes with a lot of perks.

First of all, the remote. The Roku Ultra has a lost remote finder button that will alert you if you misplace the remote control. Also, the remote control is not only voice-activated but it has private listening right there -- no app required. 

The device also has a USB port so you can plug in a thumb drive and broadcast content that way, and it's Bluetooth enabled too. You can also connect to Apple AirPlay. It works with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant and even comes with a set of earbuds.

This device can stream Dolby Vision at 60FPS (frames per second) and also the standard HD, 4K, and HDR. It also has an ethernet port to wire it to the internet if you choose to go that route. You also have Dolby Atmos capabilities with compatible speakers. 

4. Roku Express

• Best for: Beginner cord-cutters
• Pros: Budget-friendly; comes with HDMI cord
• Cons: Only streams in HD

If you're new to cord cutting and you don't want any of the frills, the Roku Express is a great beginner option. It's just $30 and gets you access to Roku's library. The streaming quality tops out at HD up to 1080p with upscaling from 720p, so it's also ideal for smaller TVs. The device is small but not a stick, so unless you stick it to the back of the TV, you'll be able to see it. 

The biggest perk of the Roku Express is that it comes with an HDMI cord. However, your remote control has no voice activation, but the device will work with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. You can still pair this device with your Roku app and use your phone as a remote and take advantage of private listening that way as well.

5. Roku Streaming Stick 4K+

• Best for: Seamless streaming
• Pros: Hands-free voice control
• Cons: No Dolby Atmos

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ is a step up from the Roku Streaming Stick 4K at a slightly higher price point. You can stream in HD, 4K, HDR, and Dolby Vision, but you won't have Dolby Atmos sound connectivity with your sound system. You do have digital stereo and DTS digital surround through HDMI, though. You can also stream up to HDR10/10+ and HLG at 60FPS if your TV allows. 

You're still getting Roku's voice-control remote and private listening functionality. The Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ also has long-range Wi-Fi, which is a plus if your space doesn't allow for your TV to be near the internet source. This stick is a bit faster than the 4K model, so if speed is what you're after, the extra spend on this product might just be worth it. It's still small enough to tuck behind your TV out of view, too. 

It retails for about $70, but like with any of these products, there's a good chance you can find one on sale at some point, either through Roku or another retailer.

Our Final Take

Roku offers a product for whatever you're looking for, whether it's high-quality Dolby Vision streaming or a budget-friendly entry to streaming life. The best part about all of Roku's streaming devices is that they'll all grant you access to Roku's extensive library of apps to watch your favorite TV shows, movies, documentaries, and more.

You can tap into all of your subscriptions whether you go with the fancy Roku Ultra or the sleek Roku Express. While all of Roku's products are great choices, the perfect middle ground is the Roku Express 4K+ because you get amazing 4K streaming for a very low price.