Android TV vs Roku: Which is the Best Streaming Device for You?

Android TV and Roku are two of the most popular streaming devices. Even though these devices have similar features, they are unique in their own ways. When it comes to the channel list, both Roku and Android TVs meet the user’s expectations without fail. The following is a much-needed comparison of Android TV vs Roku.

Android TV vs Roku

There are numerous categories to compare between popular streaming devices like Android TV vs Roku. If you plan to purchase one of these gadgets, take into account the key elements of price, app availability, and streaming quality. With that, you can get to a conclusion on which device to choose.

Streaming Device	4K Video Quality	Dolby Atmos	Sideloading	Private Listening	Smartphone App Integration	Voice Assistant	Price
Roku Express							Check Price
Roku Express 4K							Check Price
Roku Streaming Stick 4K							Check Price
Roku Streaming Stick 4K+							Check Price
Roku Ultra							Check Price
Roku Streambar							Check Price
Roku Streambar Pro							Check Price
NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV							Check Price
TiVo Stream 4K (Powered by Android TV)							Check Price
Hisense U8H Mini-LED							Check Price

Design

Both Android TVs and Roku devices have received numerous updates over the course. As a result, both devices give streamers the finest streaming experience possible. With distinctive features added to the service on each update, the devices exceed the expectations of the users. That is why users need to compare the key characteristics of their design before purchasing these devices.

User Interface

The user interface on Roku is straightforward, basic, and uncluttered. Because everyone finds it simple to use, it is one of the device’s most alluring characteristics. You’ll notice right away that the home screen of Roku TV has a menu listing all the channels and apps you’ve downloaded. Additionally, it provides users with suggested content. Moreover, Roku’s functionality for universal search runs smoothly. Thankfully, this interface doesn’t have any intrusive ads from various services.

The Android TV user interface is more flexible. There are numerous ad components on the busier interface. Ad material takes up the full top half of the screen. The app icons are also smaller and more closely spaced out at the same time. Furthermore, there are additional choices for customization when it comes to the Android TV interface. However, it is upto the users to decide the interface that suits their interests.

Apps

One of the largest channel collections, with more than 30,000 apps, can be found in the Roku Channel Store. Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Sling TV, YouTube, Prime Video, Paramount Plus, and more applications are among them. There is no way to jailbreak Roku in order to access more content. Additionally, users cannot find and install Kodi through the Roku Channel Store.

In comparison to Roku, Android TV has an even better lineup of channels in the Google Play Store. Android users might find adding apps on their devices easy on an Android TV. It includes popular apps like DirecTV Strea, Tubi, Pluto TV, Peacock, and more in its collection. Moreover, users can sideload multiple apps on Android TVs with the Downloader app.

Cost

Cost is one of the major concerns for users while purchasing a streaming device. Some users might be looking for a budget-friendly device. At the same time, other users are looking for high-end Smart TV models.

Remote

Different Roku models come with different remote models as well. It includes both IR-based and Bluetooth-based remote controls. These remote models have come across various updates, making them more feature-filled. These remotes have dedicated channel buttons and are very handy to use. You can find remote models that have voice support and other features like a remote finder.

Different Android TV models come with different remote models. Also, users can find additional universal remotes with more features. These remotes support voice features as well as dedicated buttons for different services.

Smartphone App

Roku users can find the Roku remote app in both the Google Play Store and the App Store of their smartphones. The Roku app’s user interface is straightforward, and it comes with a distinct section for the remote interface. It comes with support for speech recognition, an on-screen keyboard, private listening, and Channel Store.

Both the Google Play Store and App Store of your smartphones host a variety of remote apps compatible with Android TVs. Most of them have a simple and well-designed remote interface with support for on-screen keyboards and more features. Users can find both paid as well as free remote control apps for their Android TVs. Some Smart TV brands have their own remote apps made available that integrate other features available on their TV models.

Voice Control

Not all Roku devices and remotes support the built-in voice feature. To control Roku devices with voice commands, users must own a Roku Voice Remote or a Roku Voice Remote Pro. The microphone button is positioned on the remote in a convenient position. By pushing and holding the Microphone button on the Voice Remote, users can place voice commands. Users of Voice Remote Pro can issue voice commands without pressing a button which results in a hands-free experience.

Each generation of Android TV includes a voice remote that lets users issue voice commands. Users of Android TV can control playback, look for shows, and carry out other tasks with the assistance of Google Assistant. The use of Google Assistant on Android TVs enhances the user experience. Alexa voice support is also available for Android TV devices.

Gaming

Roku devices don’t primarily focus on gaming. Nevertheless, Roku has a large selection of games of different genres for users. Users can install and play the majority of these games for free. There are also a few premium games in the Channel Store for users. Some game categories include arcade games, puzzles, board games, classic games, and card games. To get additional apps, there is no support for sideloading apps on Roku devices.

Android TV boxes are a fantastic option for gamers. For instance, NVIDIA Shield TV users can indulge in endless gameplay of their preferred games. Users of Android TV can also access games in a number of genres. Racing games, action games, shooting games, and side-runner games are some of the available game categories.

Android TV vs Roku: Conclusion

Android TVs and Roku streaming devices are the finest streaming devices, as they come with all the necessary functions and apps. Still, they are unique when it comes to connectivity and ease of access to the available content. An Android TV box is the best choice for users looking for customizable features. Also, they allow users to access Kodi or download torrents. At the same time, Roku devices might be a budget-friendly choice for users.