In the modern era, there is more option than you can choose from. Like when it comes to streaming content on TV, Roku vs Google Chromecast vs Amazon Firestick is a huge discussion. There is plenty of reason to choose any of them and the prices are also going down pretty fast. At the time of writing, you can get any of those under $50.
So in this article, we will talk about all the similarities and differences between Roku, Google Chromecast and Amazon Firestick. Hopefully, it will help you to make a better decision which one to get.
Contents
Roku vs Chromecast vs Firestick – Full Comparison
1. Roku
Roku has a wide variety of media streamers, including three options under $50. First, there is the Roku Streaming Stick+ which cost $49.99. It is a stick that you plug into the back of your TV which can stream content in 4k. You will also get a voice remote to use the Roku’s voice search feature.
Next, you have Roku Premiere costing $39.99 which is a small box you need to keep in front of your television. The reason behind is the infrared remote it comes with. But on the plus point, it is still capable of streaming your favourite content in 4k.
Finally, we have the Roku Express which works just like the Roku Premiere but can only stream in 1080p. It costs only $29.99.
Roku devices come with HDR10 and HLG but no HDR or Dolby Digital Support. Roku also does not have any smart assistant, but you can still use your voice to search for content and control playback. When it comes to service availability, Roku covers all the major platforms like Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, Prime Video, and many more. But if you love to stream games it does not officially support Twitch. Although there is an unofficial option available if you want to tinker.
2. Google Chromecast (Google TV)
Google offers only one option when it comes to streaming devices – the $49.99 Chromecast With Google TV. It is a rebrand of their Android TV and it comes with thousands of apps, Google Assistant, and the ability to stream content from other devices with Google Cast. Just like Roku, Google TV also covers most of the streaming services, other than Apple TV. So if you have Apple TV or Apple One subscription, Chromecast is not the best option for you.
When it comes to quality, it can stream content in 4k with HDR, HLG and Dolby Digital support. It also comes with one of the best voice assistant available, Google Assistant which is great when you are looking for content, controlling smart home devices, and gathering general information. If you are not from the States, Google Assistant is also pretty flexible with languages.
3. Amazon Firestick
Just like Roku, Amazon also offers three different products under $50 price point. The Fire TV Stick 4K offers 4K streaming, as the name suggests at the cost of $50. Then there is the standard Fire TV Stick which offers content at 1080p but it cost $39.99. Finally, you can get the Fire TV Stick Lite which costs only $29.99 but the remote it comes with cannot control the TV whereas the previous two has an infrared emitter for it.
Amazon Firestick is also based on Android, just like Google Chromecast, but they have completely redesigned the UI to make it feel distinct. As it comes from Amazon it is focused on delivering Amazon content through Prime Video, Prime Music and Amazon Channels. But if you want you can also stream from Disney+, Hulu, Apple TV and Netflix.
Related Article: 3 Best Free VPN For FireStick That Really Works in 2020
Although Google Assistant is great, Firestick comes with Amazon Alexa which can hold it own when it comes to voice assistants. It is the best option to control smart home devices also, but you have to be precise about how you narrate. The only negative point is it does not have Google Play Services, so you will not be able to stream content from Google Play.
Which is Best for You and Why?
As the debate continues about Roku vs Google Chromecast vs Amazon Firestick you can see every platform has its own benefits and negatives. First of all, Roku has the most variety of content availability. But it does not have a proper voice assistant. The Chromecast With Google TV has the best voice assistant, but it lacks Apple TV. Lastly, Firestick comes with Apple TV but it does not have Google Play Services.
So when it comes to the best option, it totally depends on your needs. If you want to get the largest collection of streaming services, go for Roku. But if you need a voice assistant the other two will be preferable. If you want to stream 4k content for a lower price, Roku takes the cake again. If you need Apple TV and a good assistant, Amazon Firestick should be your choice and finally, if you need Google Play Services you are left with Google Chromecast.
To Conclude
All of these three platforms is good, but none of them is perfect, as you can see. So feasibly the article cleared all the confusion you had and helped you to choose the one for you. If you have any suggestion, let us know in the comments below and do not forget to check our application on the PlayStore.
