Today, smart TVs are equipped with host-in-built applications for streaming. Having a quality device is essential to enhance the quality of your setup, especially for those who have a traditional television set or whose televisions are not compatible with streaming platforms. All steaming devices can take TV shows, movies, sports, and other entertainment content from Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus, HBO Max, and others and send them to any TV. However, high-end models of streaming devices come with unparalleled features. Apple TV and Roku stick are the most popular streaming devices, designed for streaming video and audio content from the internet and locally stored content on the computer to HDTVs. Roku is known for its affordability and wide array of streaming options, while Apple TV is popular for its unique design and user interface. Compared to Apple TV Vs Roku stick does not have Bluetooth and optional audio (except Roku Ultra). Apple streaming devices are seamlessly integrated and interact with all appliances, which make them superior to other.
Comparison Between Roku Stick Vs. Apple TV
| Particular | Roku Stick | Apple TV |
| Manufacturer | Roku | Apple Inc. |
| Operating system | Android, iOS | tvOS 2.0.0 |
| Introduction | Digital media player with most online content options. | Digital media player incorporating iTunes content and Airplay |
| Website | http://www.roku.com/ | http://www.apple.com/ |
| Price (latest model) | USD $99 | USD $99, BRL R$399, CAD $109, GBP £99 AUD $109, EUR €109 INR ₹7,900 |
| Entertainment Channels | 750+ | 25+ |
| Resolution | 1080p HD | 1080p HD |
| Weight | 5 oz. | 9.6 oz (0.6 lb) |
| Dimensions | 3.9 x 3.9 x 0.9 inches | 3.5 x 3.5 x 1.0 inches |
| Major Internet Streaming Services | Amazon, VUDU, Netflix, Hulu Plus, HBO GO. | YouTube, iTunes, Netflix, Hulu Plus, HBO GO. |
| Connectivity | HDMI, WiFi, USB disc, Micro SD slot, ethernet. | HDMI, WiFi, Bluetooth. |
| Release date (latest model) | Roku 3: March 2013 | 3rd generation Rev A: January 28, 2013 |
| HDMI-capable TV Required | Only for Roku 3. All other Roku boxes can run on almost any TV | Yes. |
| Mirroring | Possible via third-party app. | Yes, integrated via Airplay. |
| Smartphone Remote Control App | Yes, iOS and Android. | Yes, with iOS/watchOS device only. |
| Game Apps | Yes. | Via App Store or AirPlay |
User-Interface and Personalization
Apple TVs
When it comes to the UI & UX, Apple TV and Roku both are the best and offer straightforward interface that are easy to navigate and understand for users. novice users. Apart from that, they enable you to create a home screen that feels just right to you.
- Apple TV gives you high-quality, clean grid-based layouts, allowing you to customize your favourite apps which are highlighting in the top row.
- If you select an app on Apple TV, you’ll see the preview on the background. You can even switch between light and dark themes to create a different vibe.
- You can also personalize your experience by selecting applications into the dedicated folders. For example, you can create a music folder and add music related apps on it.
Roku
Roku also provides a clutter-free interface to users, which allow them for easy navigation. The Home screen prominently displays your apps in a grid-style layout. You can navigate freely between the different sections on the left side of the screen, which also has tabs for accessing your feed, settings, and search. As Apple allows you to create a folder of your favourite applications, Roku also enables you to rearrange the application on your home screen to prioritize your favourites.
- Different types of themes are available in Roku TVs, you can from an expansive selection of visual themes on the Roku publisher Channel Store, which often includes seasonal designs as well.
- However, Roku doesn’t let you sort your apps into folders, it has a unique personalization feature in the form of “My Feed.” .
- Through this feature, you can create a personalized feed of your favourite TV shows and media personalities.
- With it, you’ll see updates about the latest episodes of shows you’re watching or any new projects your favourite actors and directors may be working on.
Conclusion
Based on your observations, Apple TV and Roku are comparable in almost every aspect. High-end models offer similar streaming quality and wireless performance, and there isn’t much difference in the simplicity of the layout. The biggest difference is in pricing, with the Apple TV option costing almost twice as much as the Roku. So overall, the Roku Ultra is the best option if you want a high-end streaming device without spending too much. The Apple TV 4K might still make sense if you’re a diehard Apple fan and want to enjoy the tvOS experience.
