Roku is a popular streaming device that plugs into TV HDMI ports. With an easy-to-use interface and remote, Roku devices provide access to thousands of streaming apps and channels. This article compares Rokus to smart TVs and when upgrading with a streaming box makes sense.
What is Roku?
Key features of Roku devices:
• Small streaming box connecting via TV’s HDMI port
• Intuitive interface to access apps/channels from home screen
• Robust universal search across multiple apps
• Over 10,000 available streaming channels
• Affordable prices starting at $30
Roku delivers an ad-free, unbiased streaming experience suits all content preferences. Frequent software updates ensure users enjoy the latest innovations.
Smart TV Capabilities
Modern smart TVs connect directly to the internet to offer built-in streaming, including:
• Popular apps like Netflix, Hulu, etc.
• Voice assistant integration (Alexa, Google Assistant)
• Hands-free app launching, content search, and smart home controls
When it comes to streaming apps specifically, smart TVs share many Roku device abilities. But Rokus maintain advantages in certain areas.
Reasons to Get Roku Despite Owning a Smart TV
While convenient, smart TVs have limitations compared to dedicated Roku streaming:
More Apps and Channels
Smart TVs support fewer apps than Roku’s 10,000+ options. Niche channel access eliminates app jumping.
Faster Updates
Smart TV software updates roll out slowly. Roku devices rapidly deploy the latest features.
Superior Search
Smart TV search only functions within each app. Roku scans all channels to find your desired content.
Ad-Free Interface
Some smart TV home screens now display ads. Roku OS remains freely customizable.
Advanced Voice
Unique Roku voice remote commands like “show me comedies with Paul Rudd” simplify content discovery.
Single Remote
Roku remote handles power, volume, TV, and streaming. Fewer remotes reduce headaches.
Stronger WiFi Connection
Roku’s antennas enable more reliable wireless streaming quality.
Long-Term Support
With over a decade actively maintaining older models, Rokus receive extended usability.
Enhanced Privacy
Roku collects some usage data but is transparent, allowing opt-outs and restricting sales.
When Roku May Not Make Sense
Roku devices aren’t always essential, such as:
• Brand new smart TVs with full app/feature sets
• Users content with basic streaming offerings
• Existing Roku TV models (software integrated into the TV)
• Xbox/PlayStation consoles enabling entertainment apps
• Budget constraints making $100+ purchases unreasonable
Foregoing Roku does limit future expandability. But smart TV capabilities continue advancing quickly enough for many consumers.
Conclusion
Roku streaming players upgrade entertainment versatility for only $30 upfront. Users gain channel variety, voice features, wireless performance, and usability compared to smart TVs. Carefully evaluate personal viewing preferences and habits to determine if supplemental Roku adoption makes sense.