Roku vs Amazon Fire Stick - Which TV Streaming Device is Better
They say, "TV will always stay dumb, but the remote will keep getting smarter." And we couldn't agree more, especially when we have two devices like Roku and Amazon Fire Stick. These TV streaming devices have taken over the market and offer access to a world of entertainment options for a fraction of the cost of traditional cable. They both tout themselves as the best, but which one is truly superior? Keep reading to find out!
Price
One thing that we can agree on is that price matters - and it's usually the first thing people consider before buying a streaming device. The latest Roku Streaming Stick+ and Fire TV Stick 4K cost around the same, with costs ranging from $40 to $50, respectively. However, Roku offers more affordable options than Amazon, including the Roku Express, which starts at $30.
Winner - Roku
User Interface & Design
When it comes to the user interface, both streaming devices offer a modern, easy-to-use interface that does not require a steep learning curve, making them user-friendly. Roku has a simple, grid-based UI with accessible content libraries to search for movies and TV shows. On the other hand, Amazon offers a more personalized UI with options to add personalized content for individual users.
Winner - Amazon Fire Stick
Performance & Speed
We expect TV streaming devices to be fast and responsive. Roku's UI is easy to use, and content is quick to load, but it lacks a feature to exit apps quickly. Amazon's Fire Stick has a voice remote that is highly responsive and has a faster loading speed than Roku, thanks to Amazon's robust servers, which support streaming devices.
Winner - Amazon Fire Stick
Content & Channels
The most important aspect of any streaming device is the available content and channels. Roku offers more variety when it comes to channels, including Disney+, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime, along with Roku's own free and premium channels. While Amazon offers popular services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video, it lacks options for American network TV like ABC, CBS, and NBC.
Winner - Tie
Voice Control
Say goodbye to clicking buttons! Both streaming devices provide voice compatibility. The Amazon Fire Stick comes with Alexa, and Roku comes with Google Assistant. These voice-activated features allow you to control the device and access content using natural language.
Winner - Amazon Fire Stick
Conclusion
Both Roku and Amazon Fire Stick are excellent streaming options, but both have their pros and cons. When it comes to deciding which one is better, it depends on the user's specific needs. If low cost, variety of channels, and voice control are a priority, Roku is the way to go. But for those who want fast streaming and a personalized UI, the Amazon Fire Stick wins the race.