Roku vs Firestick in 2023: Which is Better for Streaming?

Roku and Firestick are two of the best streaming device players on the market, but which one comes out on top? Our Roku vs Firestick showdown puts the two head-to-head. Read on to find out which one wins.

Both Roku and the Amazon Fire TV Stick — commonly referred to as Firestick — are two of the top streaming devices on today's market, especially for cord-cutters. No matter whether you’re a Netflix nut or an anime ‎aficionado, there are tons of streaming services and content available on both platforms. That said, there are some differences with Roku vs Firestick when it comes to usability and features.

To help you decide which streaming device is the best for you, we put the two players head-to-head (though you can also check out our guide to what a Firestick is, as well as our Roku beginner's guide).

Of the entire line, Roku Ultra is the most powerful and fastest streaming device. You can connect with the Ethernet port or wirelessly, and its streaming options include: HD, 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos.

Though there are some key differences between Firestick and Roku, those differences will only affect your choice due to personal preference. For instance, Amazon Prime members may sway more toward Firestick, whereas cord-cutters may prefer Roku due to the many free channels available.

Roku is better overall. There are lots of devices to choose from, more features, it's easier to use and has lots of free content available.

There are lots of TVs with Roku or Firestick built-in, but it's hard to compare them to each other when there are so many makes and models on the market. TVs range from 720p up to 4K UltraHD, and the audio quality will vary due to different built-in speakers.

No, there's no monthly fee for Roku. There's the initial device cost, but after that, you could potentially use Roku for free.

To make sure this death match, erm, Roku vs Firestick showdown is fair, we’ve split it into five rounds, each one focusing on a specific aspect.

In each round, we’ll discuss how each device performs, or if it has the relevant features. At the end of each round, we’ll compare them with each other and give a point to the winner. After all five rounds, the device with the most points takes home the trophy.

Our pricing round is a bit tricky because we can't just look at how much each one costs. We have to look at the value for money, too, and to do that, we need to look at what is included with each device model.

Below, we’ve given separate lists of the current Roku and Firestick models — we haven't included Roku or Firestick smart TVs due to varying costs and features. We’ll compare the prices, as well as what you get for your money, and declare a winner.

At a glance, you can see that choosing an Amazon Fire TV Stick is much less hassle than a Roku. Roku has far more options than Firestick (take a look at our Firestick comparison), which is great for you to find the right fit, but a headache with so much to compare. If this round was based on options alone, Roku would win hands down. However, we’re looking at the price, too.

Both entry-level devices are about the same, but if we look at the first 4K option for each, the Firestick costs a fair bit more. With that in mind, as well as what's included with further options, we have to give Roku's pricing the point in this round.

Both Roku and Firestick are easy to use, in general, but we’ll go over some specific areas of use, such as the initial installation, navigation and mobile apps.

When it comes to the initial installation, Roku and Firestick are very similar. All you need to do is connect the device to your TV and an internet connection — WiFi or Ethernet, depending on device — create or log in to your account, go through a few settings and add some apps to get started. Other than looking a little different, the process of setting up Roku or the Firestick setup is pretty much the same.

Once you start using them, the differences really become apparent. For instance, Roku's home screen shows the channels that you have installed and its menu on the left side, so it's easy to find what you want.

Roku's search features also make it easy to find specific content — such as by director, actor or genre — and its "my feed" feature allows you to keep track of new episodes and other content. Plus, it's easy to add channels to Roku, and you can organize your channels so that your favorite ones are easier to access. Be sure to check our guide on how to add local channels on Roku.

Firestick, on the other hand, doesn't allow you to organize your apps. Instead, it shows frequently used Firestick channels first. Still, it's easy to navigate, and it also shows recommendations based on what you’ve already watched, as well as new additions to any subscription services you have.

Overall, Roku's interface is simpler, and its search function is more advanced. It's also more neutral in what it shows you, whereas Firestick tends to put more emphasis on what's available on Amazon Prime Video.

The Roku and Firestick mobile apps are similar in that you can basically turn your mobile device into a remote control. You can search for movies and shows using the on-screen keyboard or voice control, navigate and access apps easily and have playback controls, too.

Both apps are available on iOS and Android, with the Firestick also being compatible with Fire OS. Plus, both platforms have a private listening feature, too, so you can stream without disturbing others. Roku allows you to plug your headphones directly into the headphone jack on your mobile device, whereas Firestick allows you to use Bluetooth headphones.

Roku comes into this round with an advantage because of its intuitive design and ability to offer private listening through the headphone jack of your mobile device. On top of that, Roku's mobile app has a "play on Roku" feature, which lets you display local media, such as videos, photos and music, on your TV. That's why Roku takes the point in this round.

Neither Roku nor Firestick's entry-level remotes include TV controls. Those that do allow you to control your TV's power and volume, and include a mute button.

Roku remotes also include channel shortcut buttons for services such as Netflix, and its Enhanced Voice remote allows you to set up personal shortcuts, as well as enjoy private listening by plugging the included headphones into the headphone jack on the remote.

However, whereas all of Firestick's remotes include voice search as standard, you’ll need Roku's Voice remote for that feature, which is only included with certain models.

On top of that, Roku and Firestick utilize a different voice assistant. The Firestick works seamlessly with Alexa, allowing you to control your Firestick with voice commands and ask Alexa questions, too. You can also use the Firestick's remote to control other Amazon Smart Home devices around your house, which is a bonus.

Roku's built-in voice control is less advanced in that you can only use it for certain functions. That said, Roku also works with both Google Assistant and Alexa, so if you want to control Google Home devices, Roku is the better option.

On the other hand, although Firestick's remote doesn't include as many functions as Roku's, it has a sleeker design and includes voice control from the get-go. Still, Roku's extra functions, optional private listening on the remote and compatibility with both Alexa and Google Assistant earn it another point in this round.

We can't truly compare every single streaming service or channel available on each device, but we can look at what's offered as a whole.

With both Roku and Firestick, you can get the most popular services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, YouTube TV app and many more. Even Roku's own free channel, The Roku Channel, is available on both devices.

However, Roku has access to lots of different apps, too — or "channels" as Roku calls them. There is also a lot of free content available on Roku.

It's also easier to narrow down your content search on Roku, and although you can search for content on a Firestick, more emphasis is placed on results from Amazon Prime Video.

Both devices also have a good range of games (check out our list of the best Roku games), but Firestick has a better and wider selection, partly because it has access to the Amazon Appstore. Still, even though Firestick may have taken the gaming trophy, it can't quite beat Roku's content selection, and Roku earns yet another point.

With both Roku and Firestick offering multiple devices, we’ve used a table to show you the differences in video and audio quality between them. We won't include any Roku or Amazon Fire TVs because there are too many to list.

As you can see, all of the Roku and Firestick devices can stream in 1080p at least, and all except the Roku Express can stream in HDR. When it comes to 4K streaming, though, only Firestick's top-end devices are compatible, whereas Roku has implemented 4K streaming across all of its devices, except for the Roku Express. However, Dolby Vision is only available on each platform's top devices.

Although all of the devices listed have decent audio connectivity, we’ve compared them by whether they are compatible with Dolby Atmos. All of the Firestick models are compatible, but only the latest Roku Ultra is.

Plus, even though two of the devices in Roku's lineup are soundbars, that doesn't mean they have the best audio quality. You can also buy the Roku TV Wireless Speakers or Roku Wireless Subwoofer separately, but they only work with certain Roku players.

For video quality, it's a tie, but in the audio category, Firestick wins, earning it a point for this round.

Both the Roku and Firestick have the basic features you would expect from the best streaming device options — you can access streaming services and watch content on the big screen. However, there are some key differences when it comes to the content accessibility, usability and connectivity.

In most of the rounds, Roku has nudged its way into the lead. That doesn't mean Firestick isn't a good option for streaming, though. In fact, which one you should choose really depends on your personal preference.

If you’re an Amazon Prime subscriber, the Firestick can help you get the most out of the service. It's also a good option if you want to use Alexa or have Amazon Smart Speakers. Roku is compatible with Alexa, too, but it's also compatible with Google Smart Home devices.

Another reason you may edge toward Firestick is to access the Amazon Appstore. With that, you can download games and even install a VPN on Firestick (though you can also use a VPN with Roku, too). Check out our best VPN for Firestick and best VPN for Roku guides.

In this Roku vs Firestick head-to-head, Roku wins. It has a wider range of devices, is super easy to use and organize and has plenty of free Roku channels available alongside paid Roku subscriptions, which makes it the best choice for cord-cutters. Be sure to read our Roku vs Firestick vs Chromecast to see how the two compare to another leading streaming device.

What's your experience with Roku or Firestick? In your opinion, what is the best streaming device? Do you have a favorite? Let us know in the comments below. As always, thank you for reading.

I honestly knew nothing about roku or the fire stick. I feel so confident now about my choice and what actual model that would work best for me.

Fire stick buffers more then the rokuEspecially on paramount pkus

Omg! This was so informative! Now I can make an educated decision. Thanks for publishing this.

Glad we could help!

Those are the most fake comments ever

hahahha felt the same way right away, the comments are incredible generic, too easy to spot

As a 83 year old great grand dad this article and its remarks all made sense. This whole communication world sometimes leaves me in a tizzy just trying to keep up. Guess I should go out and find a yellow book on devices for dummies.

My wife and I have had the Roku Premiere on two different TVS and the roku would heat up and freeze or stop working , we would have to unplug it for a while but it would keep happening again & again , you can't bring it back to the store no warranty and the Roku web site is USELESS .

Hi! I can understand your frustration. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee, as well as a one-year warranty. You may have a faulty device and you can use this link to see if you are eligible for a warranty exchange.

Failing that, I suggest you contact Roku support through the link below. You’ll need to go through a couple of options and log in, but you should see a "need more help" button. Click that and you’ll be able to contact support via chat, email or phone.

https://support.roku.com/contactus/contact-options

I hope that helps.

I had the same problem because the sticks are plugged into the hottest part of the TV. Electronics require air flow to work.

So I replaced the stick with the Ultra and bought an inexpensive "riser" (a small, decorative metal mesh storage cubby) to elevate the box 2 inches off the table. It's been 6 months and I haven't experienced freezing since.

My 65 " Sharp/Roku just died. Had trouble getting any information on either Sharp or Roku sites. Ended up hiring a local repair man who basically told me the TV is not worth repairing. Recommend getting the 5 year extended warranty. Got this one from Sam's. Not sure if I’ll go back to them.

I am not for or against Sam's Club. That being said over the last 5 years I have had my 47″ LG repaired 3 times. With Directv protection plan it only has cost me $50 deductible each time but I don't know if I will pay another $50 if it quits again. I may just put it towards a new TV. I don't think it matters who you buy from a lemon can be sold from any dealer as they have no control. Depending on how much the 5 year protection plan cost, it may or may not be a good investment. Sometimes I buy them myself and other times I do not. It comes down to the value I see in the plan.

Have an Amazon fire stick, it basically stinks, my wi-fi streams at 40-65mps and the video still freezes or continually reloads. Will probably buy the Roku that attaches with an Ethernet cable.

My FireTV 4K freezes frequently, so I am returning it to Amazon

failed to mention, that ethernet port on the ultra is only 10/100 – not gigabit. Most modern wireless connection will beat that a mile.

Hi! Yes, many devices may beat those connection speeds. However, Rokus are built for streaming and those kinds of speeds aren't needed. For instance, streaming a 4K movie on Netflix requires a minimum of 25mbps.

I have Roku and want to peacefully co-exist firestick

Hi! There's no reason why you can't have both if you really want to!

Does one need an Amazon prime account to effectively use a Fire Stick?

Hi! No, you don't need an Amazon Prime account, but you do need a regular Amazon account.

The amazon account will require a credit card and valid address in order to download some apps (peacock, Disney+, among others).

Hi. I want to get Youtube TV and Roku no longer supports it. I am thinking of getting a firestick 4k but from the comments I’ve read I am concerned with the quality (streaming problems) Should I be concerned?

Hi! Looking up any device online will return customer issues and bad comments. If you want YouTube TV, then yes, Firestick is one of the devices that support the service. Alternatively, if you have a smart TV, you could cast YouTube TV from a mobile device. Hope that helps!

I am installing on a TV in a guest room that doesn't get used that often. Would your recommendation of device be the same or change?

Hi! Yes, the Roku Express will provide what you need without costing too much, and there's a 4K version available now, too.

I would like to ask this, I have an older, 10 yr, LG 55" tv, and want to watch HBO MAX and AMAZON prime account. Which one would work better for a not too computer savvy senior citizen? Thanks.

Hi! Well, the HBO Max app can be installed on both the Roku and Firestick, so that's not a problem. After that, if you’ll mostly be watching Amazon Prime, then the Firestick might be a better option for you because its interface favors content on Amazon Prime Video. Either way, though, they’re both easy to use.

So I do not need a smart tv to use either stick. Just need WiFi?

Hi! Yes, that is correct.

All I want to do is add Apple TV+ to my fire stick. We have it on our living room ROKU. I’ve updated, followed all directions. Spent hours on it. I love Amazon, am a prime member, but it is not really that user friendly. Gonna get me another ROKU. To the gentleman above who wants them to co-exist… DON’T DO IT!!!

Still trying to understand Roku and Firestick. I currently have cable TV but it's too expensive – does Roku provide the same channels as cable? Do you need to subscribe to Netflix, etc. to watch it?

Hi! Subscriptions such as Netflix are completely optional, you don't have to subscribe to anything if you don't want to. There are plenty of free streaming channels that provide quality content, some of which is offered on cable subscriptions, too. However, it's important to understand that it won't be exactly the same as a cable subscription. There are some channels that you simply can't get unless you pay for them. You can go to the Roku website and look at the "what to watch" section in the menu to see what's available. Pluto TV, Tubi and the Roku Channel itself are good places to start. You can also check out our Roku free channels piece. Hope that helps.

Cable sure IS too expensive. Roku is waaay better than Firestick in one important regard, if you are cheap like me. That is the amount of free content available of Roku channels you can search and add. That said, if you want a live tv experience somewhat akin to cable, you will need a live-tv subscription to one of the providers, such as hulu live tv or slingtv, or sony playstation vue. Any of those will give you a bundle of 40 to 90 popular channels for much less than cable. Plus most content can be viewed on demand. But if you are cheap at heart like I am, you can save even more by skipping the very large bundle deals and simply signing up for a small handful of bundles such as peacock premium, disney+, discovery+, and paramount+. With Roku, you can even load an app to play digital content from your local library if your public library happens to offer such. My peacock premium and paramount+ bundles are $5 and $8 respectively and each offer live news options, plus peacock has quite a bit of sports coverage (such as the Olympics). Pretty darned awesome for that tiny price!

I already have the fire stick on two of my TVs and bought a Roku for my tv in living room. If I sign into Netflix or Hulu on the tv with Roku on it am I going to get charged for two Netflix and two Hulu accounts?

Hi! No, not at all. As long as you sign in to the same account, you won't be charged. You’ll only be charged if you set up a new account on the device.

Hi. I have security cameras that supports H.265 compression, I want to attach roku or firestick to my TV and use Alexa to control viewing the system. What device would you recommend?

Hi! If your primary use would be to use Alexa voice control, then the Firestick may be a better choice because Alexa is built-in as standard. However, please understand that we do not have experience of the Firestick or Roku with such a use case.

I have a Roku ultra that works on a very old Sony tv. It does not work on a Samsung that is some years newer than the Sony. We cannot get a picture with the voice. Maybe a Firestick would work.

Hi! That's strange. I have the Roku Ultra and have used it on both an LG and Samsung TV. I’ve not come across that issue. This may be a silly question, but have you tried plugging the Roku into a different HDMI connection on the Samsung TV? Or perhaps tried a different device, if possible, to check if it is the TV? I would carry out some basic troubleshooting if you haven't done that already, such as trying a different HDMI lead, plugging it into different ports, and so on. If none of that works, perhaps Roku or Samsung's support team can help. Hope you’re able to fix the issue, good luck!

FYI….Because of an ongoing dispute, Roku does NOT offer YouTube TV, and Firestick does. I’m returning the 3 Roku's I just purchased and ordered the Firestick 4K from Amazon.

Trying to decide between Firestick and Roku. Have 4 TVs. Nothing but $ and trouble with Dish. Will theses give local channels or do I still need basic cable. Will I need 4 separate units? Is Roku ultra better than 4K?

Hi! You will be able to find local channels, sure. Many are included within other apps. For instance, NewsON is available on both Firestick and Roku, and newscasts come from more than 200 news stations across the U.S.

As for the Roku Ultra, it supports full HD, 4K, HDR and Cinematic Dolby Vision (providing you have a compatible TV). Roku recently upgraded it's product lineup, though, and you can now get a 4K Roku Express. Hope that helps.

I opted for a Roku Express, but it has been a complete let-down. Many apps don't work properly, or suffer with poor design, and even using the inbuilt ‘feedback’ facility to report such issues falls on deaf ears.

Unlike Amazon Firestick, Roku does not offer a functioning internet browser, so is far more limited with regard to options. The author of this article fails to justify her claim that Roku "has more features and device options." In my experience, Roku is extremely limited with regard to features and device options.

No comparison of processers or memory. Firestick runs out of memory, and stops processing content. And it's difficult to clear the memory.

Firesticks processor and ram dwarf roku and it even has 8 gigs of storage. Roku just feels smoother because you’re limited to their lightweight streaming only channels and not actual android apps. It's so low powered it couldn't run any proper app and forget about storing any media on it lol. Now firestick isnt anything special in the androidbox world, but roku cant even compete

You have to go into the main menu of the app itself to clear cashe and with certain apps clear data, I jailbreak Fire Sticks non stop and show my customers how to do this and they have no issues, the main thing is not to have so many apps, just keep it to the ones you use the most.

Good review. I have experience with both. Although I agree with your review for the most part, I only buy Firesticks and Fire TV's now. The reason is the Roku sticks and TV's have a problem connecting to my WiFi. All of my computers, cell phones, smart speakers, security cameras, etc. have no problems connecting to my WiFi but Roku does for some reason, so I have to set up a hotspot to get my Roku TV to work, and I returned the Roku Streaming Stick+ for the same reason. I went to Roku's forum and discovered I’m not the only one with this issue. Maybe connectivity should be considered.

I have cameras too! I don't want to have to buy another stick? But I have a Roku set ok just bought and very excited about and want to best experience for it! Hey, do any of you remember when the Tvs used to go off at 9pm-10pm and we had a terrible beeeeppp and big station identification symbol on the screen? Those were simpler times! My Dad would’ve done thrown the set and firesticks into the front yard? Lol. Wish me luck, off to buy which one now? Ugh! Who's got the best deal? I hear Lowe's is selling them ? Thank you! Beth

I’ve been using a fire stick on an old expired 2012(!) Vizio TV, but I recently moved and left my old TV behind. Now I’m buying a new TV that has Roku. A review of Roku vs Fire TV models would be helpful as most new smart TVs now come with one of these built in, usually Roku. I still can't believe that smart TVs expire!

Hi! A Roku TV vs Fire TV article would be great. However, there are so many different TV brands and specifications, it would be hard to do such a comparison. Enjoy your new Roku TV!

If consider firesticks jailbreaking option, something Roku isn't capable of wouldn't that and the added free content cause firestick to be the better option? What about the Roku having no porn available anymore, a entire category eliminated would have to be figured into the debate

I just read a comparison of the Roku vs Fire stick when I Googled to see which was a better buy? I think I went past the Walmart part to the end and that's when the comparison came up? Very nice to see how they compare! I think that the Roku just did best Firestick! But, everyone liked the Firestick remote capabilities! Hope you can find it! Beth

Just bought a Roku televisionHave Fire Stick right now.Question is, would i benefit by switching to the Roku Ultra?

Hi! While the Roku Ultra does have some better specifications, if you have just bought your Roku TV and already have a Firestick, I see no need to switch.

I wish I found this article before I bought a couple Roku sticks. This is informative. However, roku DOES work with YouTube TV. You just have to use the YouTube app. Within the app you can access the YouTube tv. Hope this helps

Own Roku 4K Express and constantly losing my WiFi connection even though it's about 3 feet away. this started once they perform an update. Quit using it.

Hi! I suggest you contact Roku support through the link below. You’ll need to go through a couple of options and log in, but you should see a "need more help" button. Click that and you’ll be able to contact support via chat, email or phone.

https://support.roku.com/contactus/contact-options

Roku Ultra – How far away from the TV should I expect to experience good sound when using the JBL headphones for private listening?

We have a Samsung Smart TV which does not support Apple TV+. We have been plugging phone into HDMI port to stream Apple TV app on phone. We already get all the other streaming channels (Prime, Netflix, HBOmax, etc.). Would Firestick or Roku be better to add Apple TV only?

Hi! Both Firestick and Roku support Apple TV, so either device would be a good choice for streaming it.

We need to put our new TV (was told we need to buy a smart TV or Roku) on the opposite side of the wall as the cable. In order For us to connect wirelessly, which type of TV would be best?

I am bundled with Uverse and like most of the channels we have. However, I also have Amazon Prime (don't want/need Alexa). I want to stream Prime shows to our not smart tv so my husband can use his headphones while we watch Prime shows together. My brother sent me a Roku Streaming Stick+ to use (there is an HDMI port). Will the Roku and Universe be compatible? I am not an expert but think I can follow directions to make the connection. I do not want to screw anything up. TY for your advice.

Hi! If you’re asking whether the Roku is compatible with Uverse internet, then yes. However, if you’re asking if the Roku can somehow be connected to your Uverse channels, then no. What you can do, though, is download your favorite channel apps onto Roku and sign in using your Uverse credentials. Hope that helps!

I really enjoyed reading this article. I’m impressed with your work, and the way you’ve been able to present such a complex subject in an engaging manner that is not only understandable but enjoyable as well! Thank You for writing something so powerful – it has inspired me greatly.

Hi. Does roku still maintain its position once YouTube will no longer be available this month?

Hi! That really depends on the user. However, we will be updating this article soon, so watch this space!

Youtube TV is again available on Roku. They settled their dispute.

Best comparison article, yet! I’m sold on Roku Ultra but can or should I combine it with Amazon Prime? How would that work on the TV screen: An icon? Thanks.

Hi! Sure, you can get a Roku and subscribe to Amazon Prime Video. All you need to do is install the Amazon Prime Video app onto your Roku and sign up/log in. Hope that helps!

I have an Amazon firestick on an older Samsung smart tv. How do I get the stick to keep from lagging.

Hi! It seems a simple method to try is to restart the Firestick. Go to settings>My Fire TV>Restart and confirm that you want to restart it. We do have a Firestick troubleshooting article that may help.

I own both Roku and Fire TV Stick. Roku is easier to use and wins hands down over the Fire TV Stick. But, I like the remote of the Fire TV Stick better than the Roku remote because the Fire TV Stick has the ability to turn my TV on or off and has volume controls. If my two TV's were farther apart I would have opted for a second Roku after having the both the Fire TV Stick and the Roku.

Hi! Thanks for your input! You can get a Roku remote with TV controls, too, if you want it

Hi,We are thinking of getting rid of Satellite TV system and going with Roku. If we do that can my husband get all his Pro, Collage and most other sports networks. Oh! Lets not forget Baseball games and major news networks. He is a real sports and News Junkie. I want to make sure he will be happy with the switch.

We are thinking of getting rid of our Satellite TV system and going with Roku. If we do that can my husband get all his Pro,Collage and most other sports networks. Oh! Let's not forget about all his Baseball and News Networks. His is a real sports and News Junkie. I want to make sure he will be happy with the switch

I am wondering the same thing. Did you ever get a reply or find out. We need the sports, races and news networks too

Hi Mary. If your husband wants Sports Networks, you will have to consider a subscription to paid sites like YouTube, Hulu, ESPN, etc. You might also consider a subscription to somewhat illegal IPTV services. These services include programming to any TV or movie content in the world. Lastly, with the Firestick, you might also consider downloading somewhat illegal app(s) that allow you to access any TV or movie content in the world. However, in order for any of these alternatives to work, you must have an internet download speed of at least 40mbs.

I have a fire stick on a smart TV for some reason the smart TV no longer lets me stream off of it so I put the fire stick on it but the fire stick is hit-or-miss some days it comes on some days it doesn't what's the problem?

Hi! Sorry to hear you’re having such issues. I’m not sure why that is happening. Our Firestick troubleshooting piece may help, but if not, it's a good idea to contact Firestick support.

ditto!!! That's why I’m here, to figure out what to do. I bought my first new TV since 2007 recently, a 4K (not OLED unfor), my old Firestick is useless. Waiting for upgrade 4K Firestick -but TV installer stated "Why? It's a total waste of money as wd be a Roku system". I lost my login credibility to Hulu, Starz, Showtime w/the new TV, must Log in repeatedly.BTW, it's a *Google* Sony & I regret it.

Sorry for spell ck typos and grammar errors. I hope my dilemma question(s) make a little sense. 1. Do I need either – Firestick or Roku w/a 4K KindaSmart Sony, Google (ugh) TV? 2. Which system wd serve me better as a paying Prime Member ?

The amazon fire stick volume is not working and i can not find all my canadian teams in hockey and live tv for free does have it

I have ATT UVerse and want to buy a Roku Smart TV and change to ATT Directstream. I can try for a month and if not happy can go back to UVerse. Trying to cut down on charges. Is this a smart move?

Spectrum Essentials special with Govt resource and my wifi and essentials package is only $19.98 a month! With a Rocu smart tv, I’m loving it? Better than $235 month for Dish and At&t! Now I need the best streaming stick and I’m set! I hope! Thank you for all your great advice

I have AT&T UVerse which is higher now than when I first got. I want to change to AT&T Diectstreaming. I need to purchase a smart tv. Is Roku Smart TV my best option? I can try for a month but if I decide to purchase Direct streaming from AT&T I can no longer go ba k to UVerse. Need advice please.

Hi Alice. If you are "in love" with Roku, then you should purchase the Roku TV. However, you can purchase any Smart TV; with the price and display that you like. Streaming devices can be used on any TV, Smart or Old. My newest TV is a 4 year old Smart TV. My oldest TV is a 20 year old TV with RCA connections in the back. With an HDMI to RCA converter, the 20 year old TV looks just as good as the 4 year old TV, thanks to my Firesticks!

Alice I had Uverse too and ran into the same problem. I upgraded my internet speed and purchase a Roku Sound Bar and some other Roku devices. I cut the cable and stream Fubo. They have a couple of plans. There are several Roku channels you can get for free to stream movies. Fubo has local channels too. If you aren't into sports Fubo has a package for $70.00 plus taxes. You can use the Fubo on every TV with Roku and not pay to rent a box. I like the Fubo streaming line up better than the other streaming services even Hulu. If you are into sports they have another package that runs $80.00 You can check them out at http://www.Fubo.tv. BTW I do not work for Fubo. I’m retired. Just want to help. Also I think it's better than AT&T Directstreaming. It also has more channels for the same price as the basic DirectTV plan and costs the same.

I say get a Samsung Smart Tv, and get the Roku ultra. Samsung has its own free channels call Smart tv plus, I have my other apps like Netflix and Hulu, etc. I’m only keeping my WiFi with AT&T. So yes, I was grandfathered in to Uverse and will lose it, but I won't miss paying for cable and all those ridiculous taxes.

I have a 9 year old Samsung Smart TV. It is now not compatible with the current Amazon Prime Video service according to both Amazon and Samsung. Therefore I need a new streaming device.Another problem, is that the WiFi signal from my router is not strong enough to penetrate the # of walls (many Lath and Plaster walls in the way), so Wi-Fi doesn't work for me. My solution was to install a long, under-floor internet cable between my router and my Samsung TV which gives me a faster or greater throughput to my TV so Netflix runs without stuttering, etc.I need to know which Firestick device will accept a signal via an ethernet cable and allow my TV to work as well as it does now.Any suggestion you can make would be appreciated.

check out the Roku ultra LT

Hello Henry. It sounds like you should invest in a Mesh WiFi system. If you don't know about them, they are a two or three system WiFi router with broadcasting capabilities of 100 Ft. or more. Most systems start out with 1,000 Sq. Ft. of coverage. There are several manufacturers, so you would have to read the reviews to see which one(s) are good. If you only have one HDMI connection on your TV, you will need to purchase an HDMI switch (multi HDMI port hub). If you don't have any HDMI connections, you will need to purchase an HDMI to RCA converter. One of my TV's is 20 years old. Since it only has RCA connections, I had to purchase the converter.

You may want to make sure you have fiber optic cable/internet and you get a better Wi-Fi reception. You may have a bad Wi-Fi router. I have ROKU and I have no issue of using Wi-Fi connection, no Ethernet connection necessary. I love my ROKU Ultra… They’re great. Hope this helps.

I have cable and if I accidentally miss a month it is around $530!! We do not have any extras other than Epic. That is the ONLY extra on our cable. Unfortunately if we’d opt for just internet (even just the middle of the road) it's almost $100 unless you bundle it with cable. Where I live, we can only get 1 cable company for service unless we go to DishTv or DirectTV which does not get good service out in the ‘sticks’.My main issue I haven't decided to go to a streaming device is because my 82 year old mother lives with me and I don't think she would be able to (1) figure out the remote and (2) get her local news channels.She is like me, very very NOT tech savvy and she gets confused very easy (had to upgrade her flip phone which was the same as her other just 4G or 5G now and she is confused about it! 🤦‍♀️ )Is there a way to keep the TV/cable remote (I’d keep this CRAPPY cable company, UGH!) on her TV and I would have the streaming device on my TV?

Hi Alice. The answer is yes. Streaming devices connect to the HDMI port or RCA ports (with a converter) on your TV. In regards to the Firestick, there is no free content. However, you can download apps with free content; like Pluto TV and others. Most Firestick owners have a Prime Video subscription. Some Firestick owners will get additional (cost) apps like HBO, Disney+, etc. However, many other Firestick owners will get illegal apps which allow them to watch all TV and Movie shows for free. One last thing. When you download legal or illegal TV/Movie apps, you can put a group of most watched programs in Your Favorites folder. This can be a little overwhelming for your mom; but with practice, she may be able to learn how to access her most watched programs.

There is free content on Fire Sticks, a lot of it is "legal," you must get a bone thrown at you for pushing roku, if you want to side load Fire Sticks all good, but there is free content.

I have suffered here with crappy internet and expensive out in the sticks TV. Direct was so high. But when we finally switched to dish, it was great. But not long before it got expensive also. Our internet was ATT. The DSL was slower than the dial-up in town. Our wires out here suck. So finally we got Starling. Got rid of ATT and Dish both. Other than a few obstructions here and it's pretty great. I have a lot of trees, and they warned us about trees. Oak trees surround my house and land. The tree trimmer will be here this weekend.

Firestick Aggravation! After months of accessing Paramount+ suddenly my 4k firestick decided to refuse my email and password. After uninstalling and reinstalling the app the Amazon tech suggested we reset the stick to factory specs. Nothing we tried worked so I bought and installed a second firestick and access to Paramount+ was restored. However other irritable issues have arisen. Often I experience unacceptable stoppages while the stick buffers movies and tv shows, with infuriating regularity, some times every few minutes. And live sports events often stop streaming and the app refuses to relaunch despite multiple efforts to reboot firestick or uninstall and reinstall the app. There is also an annoying tendency to loop the last series of commercials multiple times or endlessly and force you to restart the tv show or movie and fast forward to the furthest position reached, forcing you to re-watch every commercial again! So, so far Firestick is GARBAGE!!

What version of firestick do you have?

You must clear cashe and with certain apps clear data, your stick doesn't have a lot of space and this why you are going through this.

Sounds like your internet might be an issue. I find problems disappear if I disconnect and reconnect the stick. Also though your router/modem.Be sure to use the correct paramount plus app. They show several. If you have Amazon, are you paying for it through Amazon it's partying for it through Viacom. For a while I did not realize I was paying for both! Each have different commercial handling. Good luck.

Some typo corrections:*also restart your modem and router.* Are you paying through Amazon prime ? or are you paying for it through Viacomm?

I would go with Roku and not Firestick. More channels. You can alsi subscribe to Fubo for 80 bucks plus your taxes. That package on Fubo has a lot of sports and news channels. Also has Newsmax in addition to Fox CNN, MSNBC plus your local channels. 125 channels. Direct TV Ultimate cost 104 bucks for 130 channels There are so many free apps like Paramount, and other streaming channels you can get. I hope this helps. You can check out Fubo at http://www.Fubo.tv

Sorry I miss informed you Fubo does not carry CNN or any of the Turner channels. I never watch then anyway.

oh nooooooo. I’m already having identical issues with my new 4K TV so I’ve Traded Up old Firestick to FS 4K. I already regret purchase of new Sony 4K HD SmartTV bc of the Google aspect. I wanted Android. The TV Id purchased and *really* wanted, Sony Bravia 55 OLED, $450 more, cancelled the Deal for Delivery++Free Set-Up, no notice or reason. The one I bot had the least amount of bad reviews but I’ve had problems which I’ve hoped installing a Firestick 4K would address, Not exacerbate as you’ve described. I hope they’ve provided an effective resolution to your situation, by now!

Why does my Roku always give me delays or buffing and sometimes it just kicks me out altogether. Or is it my dish company Hughes

Not that I have any experience, I *have* heard & read about this issue with Roku too many times to make a purchase; I’ve never installed any Roku products bc I seem to always fall into the "5% of the population has problems with" categories. Any updates from your end?

I have Roku Ultras and no problems with buffering what so ever.

I would say it is not the device. I’m leaning more to your internet connection. That happened to us when we used it in our RV. The internet in the campgrounds was weak and it was constantly buffering.

In all this no one has mentioned antennas for receiving live tv. Can you use and antenna with Roku and Firestick, or is it unnecessary?

Great Point! My antenna, although a "top of the line" Home Depot purchase in 2015 its big, bulky and with the 2007 720 Samsung, had to be rearranged constantly bc I’m in MetroWest Boston, surrounded by ongoing construction. I’ve attached this beamoth to the new 4K Sony but the TV APPs are frustrating enough and I’ve not attempted local stations yet. Is a 2015, inside antenna outdated?

I purchased an antenna from Amazon that works great. Hook it to your TV and place the other end in a window. I get all local channels plus 20 more. Some people may get a lot more then we do because of our area. All in al it's very easy to set up and works great

Which antenna did you get from Amazon ?

Both Roku and amazon fire stick come with their own good and not-so-good features. I have both devices and in my opinion, the clear winner overall is my Roku Express 4k+. I recently started experiencing some connection problems with the fire sticks, while the Roku keeps going.One fire stick will just display the logo, but fail to connect, while the ither one will contiue to connect. The Roku in the meanwhile will operate without any issues.The problems will move from one fire stick to the other. Is there a compatibility problem?Up until the writing of this comment, the Roku never once malfunction.

I have fire stick and Roku ultra. Personally I watch with Roku so much more. I enjoy Pluto TV and the Roku has way more channels than the fire stick Pluto. For me Roku is also a lot less hassle. In 4 yrs that I’ve had both I’ve had to replace the fire stick twice due to constant buffering and freezing. I do also watch a lot of prime shows and movies but haven't had any issues with the Roku. I moved the fire stick to our guest bedroom. I’ll probably just replace it with a Roku soon. I personally don't feel through my experience that fire stick is worth the price or hassle. I have friends and family with fire stick and they have same complaints.

I initially enjoyed your review until you said you couldn't rearrange your apps on a firestick. This is 110% not accurate and now makes me question how unbiased this review really is or if you receive more commission on a Roku?!

You are right. Firestick has and easy ability to arrange apps. Firestick beats Roku hands down in sow many ways.

I wanted to buy a roku. From what I have read about being charged for no reason and having to cancel my credit card. Do I really want to do this? NOThe whole system on what is free and what you pay for seems all the same. Just pay what they charged you and go on.I don't get it. But again NO THANK YOU.

If you want to use Xfinity in a remote location, Roku will not work on their stick Amazon fire stick does allow the Xfinity Stream app to be used in a remote net work

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