Roku, Chromecast, and Firestick are the three popular digital media streaming devices. Each of these devices comes with several features and various models. The capabilities, features, and prices of every device vary from one another. In this article, we have compared the major features and differences between Roku Vs Chromecast Vs Firestick, and you can look at them to choose the best-suited device based on your choice. So, if you are looking to choose the best streaming device, continue reading this article.
Comparing the Features of Roku Vs Chromecast Vs Firestick
[1] Price
Roku– There are several types of Roku and Firestick available at different costs and specific features and capabilities for every model. Roku devices are more budget-friendly when compared to the other two devices. Though only the upgraded versions of Roku have a voice control feature and enhanced picture quality, it does not cost more than Firestick or Chromecast. Since Roku costs lesser than the other two devices, it wins over when you consider the price.
Chromecast– It comes in a very few range of models (three models), making it easier to decide on one. Chromecast costs are budget-friendly. However, it does not support 4K quality streaming and also does not have a remote control. Compared to Roku and Firestick, Chromecast has only a very few models.
Firestick– Firestick costs are more or less the same as that of the Chromecast device. Firestick devices with enhanced features like built-in speakers, hands-free Alexa control, powerful processor, 4K quality streaming, and so on cost a bit higher than the other Firestick devices.
[2] Ease of Use
Roku– Roku wins over Firestick when it comes to ease of use. Although all three devices are user-friendly and the setup process is easy, Roku has an interface that is beginner-friendly, easy to use, and not complicated, where you can easily adjust the settings and search for anything you want in no time.
Chromecast– When you prefer very personal ease of use, Chromecast is the best option to go for. However, the setup process for Chromecast is slightly different from that of Roku and Firestick. You can use the Google Home app for the setup process. In Chromecast, the ease of use seems to be very personal.
Firestick– The Firestick interface provides the user with a lot of Amazon Prime video content. However, everything is very much straightforward. All you have to do is just connect the Firestick device to the internet and complete the setup process. If you have any doubts regarding the use, you have had a look at the on-screen instructions to easily understand.
[3] Voice and Remote Control
Roku– Roku comes with the remote consisting of the default buttons and controls. It is very much similar to that of the Firestick remote. But in addition, it has a headphone jack as an extra feature for private listening. Unfortunately, although Roku has a voice command feature, it does not have a virtual assistant feature.
Chromecast-However, on the other hand, Chromecast has the Virtual Assistant button with which you can pass voice commands. Firestick wins since it has both the voice and remote controls. Chromecast with Google TV is the only Chromecast that comes with a remote. It is very simple and easy to use the voice remote.
Firestick– Almost all the models of Firestick come with a voice remote where you can operate your TV with the help of voice commands. It also comes with the default remote consisting of shortcut buttons. Firestick remote comes with buttons where you can access streaming services like Netflix. The remote is traditional, making it easier for first-time users.
[4] Channels and Streaming Services
Roku– Roku allows users to access several apps and channels. Apart from this, they also support some popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Freeview Play, and so on. Roku device consists of the Roku channel store where plenty of movies and TV shows are available. Even you can add the official app of Roku named The Roku Channel store to watch free movies and TV shows on the big screen.
Chromecast– With your Chromecast device connected to your TV, you only can cast your Android or iOS Smartphone’s screen to your TV. It does not have any specific streaming device. And the Chromecast device is specifically designed to cast the screen of your smart device to your TV. This device will be helpful only when your TV doesn’t support the built-in screen mirroring feature.
Firestick– Similar to Chromecast and Roku, you can download any desired app even on your Firestick device. This means that you can have access to any channel or streaming service. In Firestick, you will have access to the Amazon App Store that you can use to install apps on Firestick.
[5] Audio and Video Quality
Roku– Roku devices have desirably good audio and video quality. All the latest versions of Roku devices support streaming in 4K quality. Therefore, using a Roku device, the user experiences good audio and video quality. Even you can connect an external speaker on Roku for the best quality audio experience. Also, you can note the best Picture Settings on Roku to get better picture quality.
Chromecast– Chromecast devices support 1080p audio level, which means it has a good audio quality. Similar to the Roku, even all the latest models of Chromecast support 4K quality video streaming.
Firestick-When it comes to the audio and video quality; all the Firestick models are the best since it streams content in 4K quality and high dynamic range content and Dolby Vision. Although Roku and Chromecast devices may have such features, it is confined to a single model only, unlike Firestick. Almost all models of Firestick support 4K streaming quality.
Common FAQ’s
Overall, Roku is the best option for streaming which comes with several streaming apps. It has a user-friendly interface where you can effortlessly search.
When it comes to audio and video quality, Firestick is the best device since it streams 4K quality content in a high dynamic range.