The best Roku of 2019: Reviewing every single Roku device

[@CNET]

Hey folks! Which Roku is YOUR favorite and why?

[@ludwig4029]

CNET i don’t have a roku, but my fav one was the $40 one

[@cercangel7131]

I have the Roku plus stick... I just completely cut the cable turned in the cable boxes (WooHoo) and saving LOTS $$

[@zettatakem4173]

Up & down volume wow very good 💙💙💙🕶️

[@evanstonbalce9588]

Mine is the stick which requires no HDMI cable, I already own a few HDMI cables.

[@jayw654]

easy, 2019 Ultra has the horsepower that the others lacks when running tons of apps and constantly running 4K no other Roku can do that in a speedy manner.

[@nelsoncontreras2615]

I purchase the Roku Ultra and love it. I found it at Amazon for $67.99 after Christmas. If I was advising people I would tell them to get the Toku Ultra if they have a Home Theater it has 5.1 surround sound were the other do not offer the feature. great video.

[@jimmyowens86]

I have the ROKU Express (Walmart version). Love it ! I dropped 1 tv from cable and still learning all of the options.

[@laurabarnham4713]

Thank you so much! You did a great job of showing me the features of each model so I know what to get. Better than the Roku sight did.

[@tpacalypse]

Hate everything that says apple. Been enjoying my Roku 4 for years. Love it.

[@minniemeblack3098]

😂😂

[@codeblood2000]

I don't know where to start with this streaming devices

[@jgsource552]

@@codeblood2000 youtube netflix hulu, it has it all. Just use what you like

[@clevelog]

Excellent, straight forward review. Thank you.

[@arthdenton]

Beware of the 'voice' Roku remotes. They eat batteries like there was no tomorrow. Probably because it's constantly listening. Typically you will have to replace the 2 AA batteries every couple of months vs. years for a Roku remote that does not have voice.

[@wolflaflamegaming7709]

Really

[@willowfalls7528]

Pretty sure the Roku Express is the one I want/need for my bedroom TV. Both the TV and the Blu Ray player in there give me easy enough access to Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon Prime. I'm wanting the Roku so I can enjoy WWE Network and Disney Plus from the comfort of my bed as well. The Express, I would imagine, should be enough for that.

[@heribertollamas2047]

One question, have you heard of a Roku Ultra remote stop working? we have an old Roku 2 (or 3, can't remember) and we got the Ultra last year on Black Friday and we only got it because the remote for the old Roku was literally falling apart. Anyway going back to the original question, we tried turning off and back on the Roku, re-pairing the remote to the Roku, taking batteries off and putting them back in, fresh batteries right off the charger, brand new batteries, etc... the only thing that helped us was using the Roku App on the cell phone (an old android phone we use as our radio). Anyway, the remote after not having batteries in for a while when we put them back in it works for like a minute and then .... not responding, not working, not nothing. I was just wondering if anyone had something like that happened to them and how they fixed it. Thank you, Happy New Year!!

[@wristschatz1454]

I’ve had the streaming stick plus for two years and I don’t regret it! You can also get the Apple TV app to get your iTunes content.

[@timescape5191]

I have a TCL 4K Roku TV. I have been using Rokus for 8-9 years, and nothing like have it built-in to your TV.

[@jayw654]

Last thing I want is it being built into my tv. When the hardware is old you can't replace internally. However, you can just get a separate unit that is newer and just plug it into an HDMI port but now confusion is created between the internal and external Roku, Not sure I'd recommend that as an option.

[@eatanelkberger]

@@jayw654 Do you know someone who has done this? I too bought a TCL with Roku and have wondered about this. I actually don't see this being an issue on my TV, since it's a bedroom set that almost never gets used. I can deal with an outdated device for a long time in this situation. However, I'm curious because I would be tempted to buy a similar TV for one of my main sets when I upgrade. For instance, if I plug in a Fire TV device and use the Fire TV remote, why would the built-in Roku have any effect on it?

[@lornehampel1330]

All remotes are the same?? Unless things have changed, there are two types of remote (IR and Radio) they are not interchangeable. Very different technology. Also, it is difficult if not impossible to find a replacement radio remote. I lost mine for my premiere + and now only have my cell phone remote. IR is easily replaceable but you have to have a line of sight and point the remote directly at the box. quite a pain actually. radio is far preferable. keep in mind that Roku provides no support for finding parts. I will be buying something else when this one dies. Also, I have had 2 streaming sticks. they get so hot that they have a pretty limited life span. mine each lasted about a year.

[@brianoconnell6459]

I have an HD II, from about 5 years ago. Lost track of the remote for it, but that too came with a built in headphone jack and volume controls. No voice input though.

[@garylayne687]

Excellent job........ professionally done. Very informative

[@markwilson2699]

Don’t have Roku yet, but learned a lot from this video. My favorite part was the left in laughing scene!!😁 see 5:25-5:35

[@ashtong85]

Good keep it like that I wouldn't even buy a roku for someone I hate. You are better off with a sack of potatoes

[@kabatony]

MArk Wilson 7:20

[@TheCrappyShooter]

No

[@AZZPAC]

I got the express & Roku streaming stick plus as the internet or WiFi was such a pro lean so after a few weeks of waiting and my own review from what other people’s reviews I decided that these was the two I choose plus the Roku streaming stick plus we can take with us on our family holidays.

[@willlick7872]

Please add model numbers to make our searches easy and precise!

[@karuragirljustus5555]

Happy new year and thank you for the video

[@alanmaique6815]

I think I'm gonna get the ultra especially because of the remote finder (or whatever it's called) My little twins always lose the control and I think that with this I could always find it. Thanks for the explanation.

[@kyungrix1112]

Fantastic review! You've explained the differences perfectly and now I know which one to order.

[@jayw654]

Yes, the 2019 Ultra

[@kyungrix1112]

@@jayw654 yep, I ordered it yesterday for $50 direct from Roku

[@sngltangshopsngltangshop1489]

I like your vidose.

[@sansaviera]

The only thing I want to know is which Roku has a USB port and earphones for the remote? Thanks

[@elizabethmiller7884]

sansaviera Didn’t he say the Ultra $100.00 one had both ?

[@kayshuna]

Do you have to pay for separate services if you have more than one device

[@majorskies7091]

Roku is much better than Now TV and Fire Stick. Roku has both Amazon Prime App and KZbin App. Now TV has no Prime and Fire has no KZbin

[@FearAlmaAgain]

Pity your video didn’t really mention details of USB input support of the Ultra model and if or how well it works to browse media and what file formats are supported etc. Also whether or not Plex is available and how well it works compared to similar devices on the market.

[@ik04]

Does the KZbin app still suck badly on the Ultra? That's all I care about, not the stupid remote!

[@jtltet]

Are certain Roku devices faster at loading? In other words are the cheaper models or the stick just as fast at loading as the $100 model?

[@jayw654]

The lower end models don't have much storage and nor does the ultra but the ultra allows you to add an SD card so that all the channel data is stored vs the other versions with lag due to having to reload data. Also the processor is not as fast in the other devices so it will take even longer than the ultra even if the ultra didn't have an SD card available to it.

[@nicolettefrazey2703]

Thank you so much you make this so easy to understand!

[@SYDWORLD]

Express + Is not advertised as coming with the Enhanced remote with TV power & volume. As far as I can see the only difference is the included Composite cable and port for old displays.

[@johngerity]

Anyone else freaked out by that "I better laugh really hard or people might find out things" moment? 5:19

[@TimothyAlexzander]

Can I use a Roku remote without the Roku stick

[@Jamesgangcreative]

Thanks for answering some of my questions: I bought an Ultra and a Streaming Stick from Best Buy over the holidays because the Ultra was half price and the Streaming was $30. When I set up the Ultra I had to renew my Roku on the web, but then nothing seemed to change on the tv. It looked exactly as it did. I asked online and just got a snarky answer. You solved the mystery. Basically it's all just the remotes. Glad I didn't pay more than $80 for both. I'll see if the shortcuts do anything for me. There's nothing in the box that explains that either. Oh, and the video Roku shows as being able to personalize doesn't match what I see. "Personalization" on the Ultra is basically "add channels" and that's it.

[@Evan_Adams]

My kingdom for a Roku with HDMI passthrough.

[@speedracer9132]

Can we please get a true power off option, all roku devices are power parasites

[@mthompson]

We have all of our electronics connected to a single surge protector....we just unplug that one thing from the wall and everything is disconnected.

[@pingaslord9726]

did you ever think about...I dunno... Unplugging the connector from the back of the box?

[@wiilover07]

I'm buying another Express for my bedroom TV so I can watch Disney+. I don't need to spend $99 just for a remote and just to stream Netflix, Hulu or Amazon Prime Video.

[@jayw654]

I have the express and its total garbage.

[@JonSuejoj]

A google chromecast will work also

[@JelaniWood]

I just have a 50 inch 4k HDR TCL TV that has the Roku player built-in and comes with the Roku remote. $400 at COSTCO my dude.

[@ludwig4029]

Jelani Wood 😱

[@ibmtpx24]

I got a 37" 1080 tv (Spec-something brand) off Craigslist for $30 and a $25 Roku express from Amazon last week. I love the cheap upgrade from Sony trinitron CRT.

[@jayw654]

yeah but the Roku's inside the TV's suck as they aren't very powerful. I always recommend and external streaming player.

[@silverxbladeX]

@@jayw654 Nah, not mine. I got the same 50 in TCL just over a week ago and it's fast, no lag, and plays beautifully.

[@jayw654]

@@silverxbladeX The question is if its not the ultra how much faster or better it could've been if it had been the ultra? Which will only play out when lots of apps are loaded or do tons of 4k.

[@NickRedstar]

Got the $100 one for $50 on black Friday

[@ashtong85]

Still a bad price wouldn't risk my life

[@LeeLoomis1988LegalRetard]

Does Roku Box Devices Have The same deFaut Like AmazonFireStick second Generation and on This FireStick only way ?ii? could watch xFinity stream i Have to use a BlueTooth mouse keyBoard just To move up & Down Does Roku Box Devices Have The same deFaut subject ???

[@Jamesgangcreative]

Me too. Got both Ultra and Streaming+ for $80

[@rocketcat2]

The premier box doesn’t have the upgraded design, it is the express that got the new refreshed design

[@Eyeofthesheppard]

Can you use options for a other tv with this like the resolutions or stretching ?

[@jackinkc767]

What is a “Roku experience” or a better Roku experience? Does it record shows?

[@neilspiring1498]

i would like to hear your opinion on Roku 2

[@zettatakem4173]

I love Roku every one should have a Roku 🥰🤭💙💙💙

[@Ty2shiestyyyy]

Zetta Takem is it free to watch movies and TV ??

[@jayw654]

Nvidia Shield TV is far better but Roku does have a few options not available to Nvidia Shield TV. Roku for me is nothing but a fill-in device.

[@ainmcneil7036]

You can get a HDMI to video converter on Amazon if you have an older tv.

[@trevorkulemeka]

well explained

[@trainspotteruk9291]

Just wondering if they will release a new roku streaming stick this year

[@almost1403]

Besides the extra features of the ultra like the find remote button, Ethernet port, etc does the processor inside the ultra really out perform the streaming stick plus? The extra features are nice but my only real question is if the performance of actual streaming differs between them? Such as stability of streaming and app launching quickness etc. If someone could answer that for me id greatly appreciate it 🙏

[@melvinluna6882]

Niggan laughed at his own joke..

[@Soonerblake007]

The real dad joke

[@frederickeverett6113]

I think the video was very helpful. Thank you.

[@The_Mr_knife]

Great review

[@ricshome1]

Got the Ultra for $49 Black Friday and the Streaming Stick Plus for $29.

[@sfnana100]

your video was very informative but I am wondering ca you help me connect my DVR player to my roku 3

[@darrellsanders9031]

You can buy an HDMI switch or "splitter" off of Amazon to connect the other equipment but your TV needs to have HDMI inputs.

[@1968toddcarter]

Love that first song!

[@chicagoblue5594]

Wow, thank you so much! Very specific loved it...I'm getting the stick!

[@PJG1710]

I have the ULTRA and 3081R. Now need another one for the 3rd bedroom for my 75yr old father who has a hearing issue but is TECH SAVVY. Any recommendations?

[@traviss6564]

Get him the streaming stick plus from Best Buy (exclusive model to them has the headphone jack, the normal streaming Stick plus does not) or a model with the headphone jack in the remote so he can use headphones.

[@solarsynapse]

Looks like the Ultra has a Bluetooth remote. How does that work with the other units? Does it also have IR? If no IR, you would not be able to use a home theater remote!

[@EricThomasBland]

great info but the music is too high and distracting

[@LA_GALLADA_RUIZ]

I only need it for PHILO Wich one should I get? Anyone help

[@lucasdesa5592]

Is ROKU compatible with a Sony Android TV in India?

[@matthew.datcher]

You mentioned that a Roku remote will work with any Roku box. Is the same true for a Roku-based TV?

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

My sharp Roku TV remote does not work with my Roku express. Not sure if the opposite is true, I’ve never tried that.

[@petersachs764]

@@TheFrugalAudiophile You are correct, my dad lost his TCL Roku TV remote and the remote from my Ultra would not control his TV version.

[@sugargliderdude]

i wish Roku offered freeview, you can only get it with a aerial... i want to turn on the Roku and live stream tv channels, not click on individual apps to access a channel.

[@ksiss]

SugarGliderDude Thats why you get a Roku and Hulu Live. It’s just like watching cable TV, except better. Plus the Roku has a Hulu button so it’s a single press to launch.

[@rgruenhaus]

I guess you did not have the Ultra 2020?

[@lynndee2644]

Thank you! I'm new to Roku and didn't have a clue till Now! Lol Cute snort lolb

[@thedrkness1925]

They do make rokus for older tvs.. with the red yello and white chords.. and this is for 2019, please know your stuff

[@DokuganGreedYT]

Excelente video, gracias por la info!!

[@jellyy2004]

buy the Roku express from Argos its 18 pounds right now which is pretty cheap in my opinion.

[@WeAreMovieMakers]

Expandable storage, not memory.

[@playtothebone]

CNET stopped providing real information about 10 years ago. Now they just pander to companies, providing useless marketing information

[@chuckybaby1973]

The Roku Ultra's programmable buttons can also be programmed to launch a streaming channel as well.

[@traviss6564]

Pre-programmed channels I don't use are my only complaint of lower Rokus.

[@JStorm13]

Thoughts on the roku se?

[@lexusmickey]

Does the firestick freeze or buffer because my Amazon stick does. And can you side load apps from unknown sources.

[@tgardone]

I picked up a Roku ultra for $49 on Amazon for cyber Monday and I can’t wait to get it, haven’t gotten it yet but I’m a first time Roku user and I think I’m going to enjoy it. Thanks for the video

[@TechVerveyt]

Great video! I personally would get the Roku stick. For the price it has all I need.

[@ashtong85]

No just no

[@louisd95714]

Three Premieres and one Streaming stick Plus, and am awaiting for another Streaming Stick Plus. Got these to get rid of four Spectrum boxes Ithat I'm paying a monthy charge for. Being I can use the Spectrum app, I will no loger need the boxes, and will save close to 40 dollars per month.

[@2thecurve]

I had a roku stick and then I had an android box. I will always refer to android box over roku. The idea of buying something is having complete control over it. With roku you can't do everything you want with it. Android has always been fully customizable

[@jayw654]

Yup, Nvidia Shield TV is king and nothing is going to change that. The horsepower that Nvidia Shield TV has no one can come close to its abilities and truly is a god streamer.

[@janebrady6188]

is there a Roku that has motorcyle racing?

[@naeg.8924]

I just brought the roku ultra

[@ive9th]

What kinda port is that on the Roku streaming stick? I'm guessing the HE requires that odd cable as well.

[@willdumont8921]

Ivan Richards micro USB to charge but it comes with the cord

[@therealchickentender]

The Premiere is *NOT* worth the cheap price. There is no Ethernet and it has *ONLY* single-band wireles 802.11a/b/g - if your set is any distance from your wireless router (and in my experience even if quite near) you *will* come up against some serious buffering issues with UHD content. If you're just consuming HD content, it's probably fine. For me the Ultra it the one, and a (original) Stick in the bedroom. But I'm still *screaming* for Gigabit Ethernet on the higher-end models. Baffles me that they still use 10/100 LAN ports in 2019 for a 4K HDR *premium* streaming box.

[@jayw654]

Yes, wired ethernet is a huge deal, plug it and forget about it. Premiere doesn't have the power to handle large video files very well so if 4k is your thing and you want it to act right the only option is Roku Ultra 2019 or get an Nvidia Shield TV.

[@ochirhon17mn]

Roku has small problems. For example fast forwarding movies.

[@Synthwave89]

Excellent video dude. I'd love to have the ultra controller but it's hard to justify being broke. The stick+ looks pretty good though.

[@Ordlnary_Gamer]

Mario Paul so you like the most expensive roku

[@_ladestra8624]

When you say 4K does that mean it only works for 4K or it offers 4K? Please I need a response soon! Thanks.

[@grizzlemunstr]

Up to 4k. I don't know of any major streaming device that only does 4k. That's way too restrictive and you wouldn't be able to watch much content. There's still tons of non-4k programming.

[@ironmike7601]

That was my question. Glad you asked!

[@_ladestra8624]

sunggis you spelled *technology incorrectly...

[@cassianobizotto1]

CNET, is possible created roku account from UNITE KINGDON?

[@FreakAboutSims3]

What is the Roku SE though?

[@derrickdzurko2068]

I just bought 2 yesterday from walmart - its the basic...does not have a SD slot. But works pretty good.

[@drgjs]

Why, why, why did they delete optical out?

[@traviss6564]

Most people don't use it and it cuts cost? I'm a power user also and wish it was there, at least we can still strip digital audio from the HDMI signal with a box.

[@sublime_tv]

4:43 "So if you don't like waiting for KZbin to load, for example, you could put more memory in." What are you even talking about? Micro SD card memory is for storing things and playing those stored things....not increasing memory speed. It's not RAM speed; it's not going to improve your performance...

[@johnamazing669]

I think he mean move the app to stored on the SD card. Since most of Android based device can do that. Which is migrate data from internal storage to external storage. I don't own a Roku but from my prospective I think most device can do APP migration to external. My Xbox can (via external drive), my play station can (external drive) My window desktop and laptop also can (SD), my phone also can (SD).

[@sublime_tv]

@@johnamazing669 That's what I was thinking too, but he worded it very poorly and this is why we have people that are confused.

[@johnamazing669]

Mr Meh true that make people confused.

[@gkarone3228]

Go with the firestick and you won't be disappointed you can go on KZbin download filelinked and watch brand new movies a week after they come out I'm not bad-mouthing anybody I'm just saying you don't need Netflix you don't need Hulu you don't even need Amazon Prime but you can get all those on the firestick but it's easily jailbroke and you can get tons of free content that you cannot get with a Roku

[@sublime_tv]

@@gkarone3228 Is there a video demonstrating this?

[@alishahid292]

Where do you get apps from? Has it got access to google play store

[@traviss6564]

No Google Play store access. You can add the apps direct from the home screen or from your Roku account on your PC. Next time you update your Roku, the apps you added from the computer pop up. The Roku app itself, to control the Roku and gain the ability to use headphones, is free from the Google Play store, an iPhone app is also available.

[@alishahid292]

Travis S so your limited to what Roku would allow you to add onto their system. I wanted to add apps like swift player etc

[@traviss6564]

@@alishahid292 there are a lot of unofficial channels with different capabilities, Google "best private Roku channels" or "best unofficial Roku channels." That may give you an idea of what's out there. A lot of people use Plex or KODI to play stuff from their collection, and Roku supports that. There's also a channel that lets you play video/audio you've uploaded to your Google Drive, 'Syntrix Beta.' Hope this helps.

[@leafs3715]

I have the 1080p 2018 Streaming Stick (Not the plus version). I've had it for a year, and I have never encountered a single problem with it! But it got discontinued...lol

[@joylaine3193]

Can I access my computer files on the Roku Streaming stick? In other words, if I down load a movie ON my computer will I be able to see it on the roku?

[@TomCarrell1]

Yes. Third party apps that run on your computer can allow you to watch downloaded movies, tv shows, and home videos. I have used the free version of PLEX to do this for years and it meets my needs. There are alternatives to PLEX but I haven't used them myself.

[@edwardsipes9640]

I got my TV through Amazon I'm satisfied with it but I do not know how to connect my cell phone to the TV I think I can do it with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi or the patch cord I still have not figured it out I've only had two TV for a week or two

[@JonSuejoj]

Do you have tethering or hotspot on your phone.

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

Aren’t all the Roku remote wireless? LOL I think what you meant is that the one on the streaming stick is IP rather than IR so it does not require direct line of sight.

[@susanromersa4715]

i do have an analog tv, so are you saying the 2019 roku won't work...what do you mean look elsewhere?

[@susanromersa4715]

also am considering a roku enabled tv for the living room, and moving this analog tv to the bedroom, but if you are saying roku 2019 wont' work on it, what will work?

[@donpeterson997]

There are hdmi to rca adapter cables I'm using one now to adapt to an old tv

[@traviss6564]

Just look for last year's model, I'm sure they're still around on eBay and such. There is a model from last year with analog outputs.

[@aaronramirezrodriguez4719]

Me Wants to learn about the roku instead of a remote

[@trappyabot5618]

Do U need Netflix and Hulu subscription to be able to use it???

[@omarr7825]

What is missing with the Roku is Bluetooth for wireless headphones ! No want to use the app

[@dhblan8591]

I have two Roku 2 XD units that are several years old. I have read that this model may not be able to stream Netflix after December 1 (I am in US). Is this for real?

[@majestic2253]

The roku 2 is not listed in the compatible device list on Netflix. I did read in different articles that if your streaming device does not support auto play it will not work. My roku 2 has auto play so I will know on dec 1st if it works. If netflix requires me to upgrade just for a binge option they will find out how quickly I cancel my subscription.

[@jayw654]

yup it real and better get the deal as its over at the end of Dec 2nd. 49.99 for the ultra's.

[@maryetdave]

Do any of them have a USB port to play media files off an HDD

[@Ordlnary_Gamer]

S/V Lusca no but you can store them on your phone and do it there

[@gerrikirwin4005]

what about the roku 3

[@abghere]

Very tempting. After much research, found out none of these Roku come with any internet browser. This is a deal breaker for me!

[@derrickgoodman8434]

That's right,at least the fire sticks have Bing and you can jailbreak them to get other browsers.

[@Evan_Adams]

Are all the Roku remotes RF?

[@Slatersave]

No, some are IR

[@zacharylee1995]

Roku Express is actually The cheapest one judging by The one that I found at Wal-Mart, So I guess that's one that I will Buy for Me I guess

[@gigidygigidy6078]

I haven't used my roku since I've gotten my firestick 3yrs ago.

[@sicks6six]

so they all give you the same programs, none of them offer more choice, a word of caution, I've read comments from people who say the dongle version is a bit hit n miss when it comes to using the remote control as it's hidden behind the TV, the others are on show and you have to have a reasonable direct line of sight between the unit and the controller, that's why I've ordered the premier version in 4K HDR/HD even though my TV isn't 4K it should give the best results in quality. if you use one of these and unplug your TV coaxial cable and fit a blanking plate on the aerial socket the TV license man cant ask for a license as you have no way of receiving live BBC broadcasts ( I THINK ) grey area. perhaps someone could enlighten me . . .as for TV licence avoiding I was told if you have a smartphone you need a TV licence as it can receive live BBC broadcasts, is that correct P.S. join the "DEFUND THE BBC" movement . . they're greed has killed them off at last..

[@jpar3049]

The Ultra is your best bet! the sticks and the expresses will fail! sooner then later! One, the onboard wifi will within a year or less will go out on them! I think it is heat related due to such small area. Also, the ultra has memory, which over time you will need, due to the fact those at Roku load their streaming devices down with so much crap ware that they become so slow, they are useless, so you will have to buy the newer models. Roku's 1 and 2 models are prime example of this. It takes forever to load the apps, and when you do get them loaded and start to watch a movie, say on MoviesAnywhere, once you get the movie started it plays fine, but minutes later the movie starts to buffer! and either will not start again or you wait forever for it to do so, and this is with only 4 apps, I deleted all my apps except for 4 to see if it would speed it up, and results was a big NO! Why is this? Because like I said, those at Roku load the streaming boxes down with so much crap-ware, that it eats up the memory, they did this on purpose, to make the older streaming devices unusable, that way you will have to buy a new/er box/stick to play your apps. This is a way to screw us the costumers, out of our money, and put the same said money in their pockets! They are crooks! But I am not here to tell you how to spend your money, just giving You a heads up! The choice is yours! Regards!