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.
Features | Roku | Android TV |
Best Picture Quality | 4K Ultra HD | 4K Ultra HD |
Best Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos |
Operating System | Roku OS | Android OS |
App Store | Roku Channel Store | Google Play Store |
Screen Mirroring | Cast from Smartphone, PC | Cast from Smartphone, PC |
AirPlay Support | Yes | No |
Budget Friendly Model | Roku Streaming Stick 4K | TiVo Stream 4K |
High-End Model | Roku Streambar | NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV |
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.

Parameters | Android TV | Roku |
---|---|---|
Home Screen | A busy interface with content suggestions | Simple user interface |
Ad-support | Ads are present | Fewer ad-interruptions |
Customization | More options available | Only fewer options are available |
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.
Parameters | Android TV | Roku |
App Store | Google Play Store | Roku Channel Store |
Best Apps | Netflix Apple TV Prime Video Hulu | Netflix Apple TV Prime Video Hulu |
Sideloading | Supported | Not Supported |
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.
Model | Description | Price | Buy |
Roku Express | Budget-friendly Roku model with no 4K support | $17.99 | Buy Now |
TiVo Stream 4K | Budget-friendly Android TV box streaming in 4K UHD | $29.99 | Buy Now |
Roku Premiere | Budget-friendly Roku model streaming in 4K and HDR | $58.99 | Buy Now |
Roku Ultra | Roku model with the private listening feature in an enhanced voice remote | $65.99 | Buy Now |
Roku Streaming Stick | Roku stick that supports HD, 4K, and HDR streaming | $67.00 | Buy Now |
Roku Streambar | Soundbar with built-in Roku player support | $65.99 | Buy Now |
Roku Streaming Stick+ | High-end Roku device with Dolby Vision support | $89.99 | Buy Now |
NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro | A 4K HDR Android TV with support for Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus | $199.99 | Buy Now |
Hisense U8H QLED Series Quantum 4K ULED Google TV | High-end 4K ULED Smart TV with support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos | $699.99 | Buy Now |
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.

Remote | Connectivity | Channel Shortcut buttons | Private Listening | Voice Support | Lost Remote Finder |
Roku Simple Remote | Invisible Infrared (IR) Light | Present | Absent | Absent | Absent |
Roku Voice Remote | Wireless Network | Present | Present | Present | Present |
Roku Enhanced Voice Remote | Wireless Network | Present | Present | Present | Present |
Roku Enhanced Voice Remote Pro | Wireless Network | Present | Present | Present | Present |
NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro Remote | Bluetooth | Present | Absent | Present | Absent |
TiVo Stream 4K Remote | IR/RF signal | Present | Absent | Present | Absent |
Hisense U8H QLED Series Quantum 4K ULED Google TV Remote | Bluetooth | Present | Absent | Present | Absent |
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.

Feature | Android TV | Roku |
Form | Mobile App | Mobile App |
Remote Interface | Supported | Supported |
Private Listening | Not Supported | Supported |
Voice Control | Supported | Supported |
App Installation | Not Supported | Supported |
Keyboard | Supported | Available |
Touchpad | Supported | Supported |
Media Playback | Supported | Supported |
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.

Feature | Android TV | Roku |
Remote Models | Android TV voice remote | Roku Voice Remote Roku Enhanced Voice Remote Roku Enhanced Voice Remote Pro, |
Voice Button | Available | Available |
Control playback | Supported | Supported |
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.

Feature | Roku | Firestick |
Game Categories | Board Games Card Games Vintage Games Arcade Games Puzzles | Racing games Action games Zombie Apocalypse games Shooting games Side-runner games |
Game Source | Roku Channel Store | Google Play Store |
Sideload Games | Sideloading games are not supported | Sideloading games are supported |
Popular Games | Galaga Downhill Bowling 2 Word Soup Four in a Row Mah Jongg | Into the Dead Crossy Road Oribia Zombie Age 2 Fast Like a Fox |
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.