The rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro also offers hands-free commands such as power controls and a handy remote finder. The fancier models also include remote features like TV control and even voice assistance. ControllersĪll streamers come with remotes, though many will work with your TV remote as well (using HDMI CEC). However, you can buy brackets that will mount a set-top streamer behind the TV. The advantage of dongles is these devices work via RF signal and can be hidden behind the TV, whereas the other designs will usually be seen by the user. Hybrid models like the Roku Express are small boxes that attach to the edge of your TV to catch IR signals from the remote. Pricier streamers tend to be set-tops such as the Roku Ultra. Most streamers, such as the Roku Streaming Stick, Amazon Fire Stick and Chromecast, are dongles. There are three main kinds of streamers: dongles, which are essentially an extension of the HDMI cable set-top boxes and a hybrid of the two. Some models also have Dolby Vision HDR support, but it's nearly identical to HDR10 and it isn't supported on Samsung TVs. Stepping up in quality, you get 4K resolution, High Dynamic Range (HDR10, usually) and Dolby Atmos (which supports height effects). Audio and videoĪll of today’s streamers support Dolby Digital (5.1 surround sound) and high-definition video (1080p). Also, if you have an older TV that lacks HDMI, you'll either need to buy an HDMI adapter or get a secondhand streaming model, such as the Roku 1. But some also include Ethernet for a wired web connection that can help in homes with lots of Wi-Fi noise, such as in apartment buildings. Most streaming devices support HDMI and Wi-Fi and that's all. Paying more usually gets you more features and a loading speed that's a bit quicker. Prices start at around $30 and can go into the hundreds, but the sweet spot is about $50. PriceĪt the end of the day, everyone wants to get the most bang for their buck, and one of the cheapest gadgets you can buy for your TV is a streaming device. Roku also produces some of its own soundbars and speakers, which make it easy to build an all-in-one entertainment setup. There are plenty of good options to choose from, but Roku's devices remain our clear favorites thanks to their convenient features, impressive performance and affordable prices.ĭevices range from the advanced Roku Ultra, which recently got some nice upgrades, to the affordable Roku Express, which you can snag for just $30. Roku makes a lot of streaming devices, as do Amazon, Google and Apple.

How to get in touch with roku