Here is an interesting question: is it possible to hook up a ROKU stick to a ROKU Smart TV? And how would I do that? I find the Smart TV disappointing, constantly disconnecting from the internet. A problem I never had with the ROKU stick. By the by, I was told that Flat screen TVs are no longer available, at least at Best Buy, only Smart TVs can be purchased.
This led me to get the Roku. Thank you for your input for different scenarios (receiver + non-smart tv + several game consoles). Another remote and clutter is no big deal to me.
I prefer Roku Ultra, especially over other Roku devices. I had both a Roku Ultra and a Roku stick. The as I added channels to my Roku, the Ultra seemed to be able to add more channels than I really ever needed, at the same time I started having problems with my Roku Stick. The Roku Stick which was on the same account started malfunctioning... I soon realized why. As I added more and more channels to the Ultra, the Stick was also picking up the fact I added those channel to the account and was adding them also. The stick did not have the same amount of memory, so it became overloaded and soon became kludgy and basically inoperable. I started deleting all the channels on my account that I either did not use, or were preinstalled and kept the only ones that I watched. The Stick came back to being a well functioning device once I trimmed the "fat". I no longer have a Roku Stick and absolutely love my Ultra. Another thing about the Roku, is that I can add my Amazon account to it and watch Amazon Prime and Amazon Music. I do not need a Firestick for Amazon. The Roku Channel also has lots of stuff on it I might have to pay for other wise, and it is free. The fact that Pluto, Freevee, and other free streaming services make it great as a cost cutter. If I need to I can eliminate all the paid channels and still have as much or more video and audio content than my cable provider gives me. I would like to try a Firestick, but so far I do not have a device like Chrome or Firestick as those two services already know more about me than I would like. The reason I would like to try the Firestick is the ability to side load apps. As far as Firestick having the ability to add memory in the form of flash memory as mentioned below, many Roku devices can do the same. Since the Roku Ultra is a box you can place on you TV stand or mantle, It is easier to insert and remove the memory, and not have to fiddle with something on the back of the television. Also my friend purchased a Roku TV. When the internal Roku started having problems, his TV was fine, but he still had to add an external Roku. The reason why I never bought a an all-in-one stereo and always bought component system. If something goes bad, you replace one part, not the entire thing. I have been also thinking of adding an Android TV device, There are many different one out there, and being able to add a browser or other android apps to it some thing I wish was easy to do, I even just thought maybe I should get a mini ITX computer, run Android on it and basically have an Android TV box that I custom built with the apps I want. There are some streaming services that can not be added or accessed by Roku or Amazon, but can be accessed by computers, tablets, and cell phones that run Windows, MacOS, Linus or Android.
Thanks for the informative video. I have a 5-year old Sony Bravia and matching Sony soundbar. The soundbar is connected to the TV using HDMI eARC. The volume control on the Roku Ultra remote controls the soundbar volume without problem.
I have Rokus and the Firestick on one TV and find the Roku much easier to deal with, the Firestick does have a few advantages like using it to ask Alexa to do things but it doesn't have as many channels and they tend to be more buggy on the Firestick. I have a Roku TV with Roku wireless speakers and a Roku subwoofer and it is a great sound system. I would instead get the Roku soundbar if I had a non-Roku TV.
I have a Roku Ultra, a Sony Smart TV, and a Yamaha Dolby Atmos Receiver. The Roku remote controls everything. All that is required is to insure CEC is enabled on both the TV and receiver. That being done, the Roku remote changes apps, turns everything on and off, and controls volume and mute.
Just to let you know if you have a Roku Smart TV it does control the volume of your soundbar. If you have a fire stick plugged in it will go right to it and still you can control the soundbar volume with the fire stick remote.
Advantages of Firestick not talked about in the video: add 3rd party apps; adapters to add accessories like a flashdrive for more storage or a keyboard; I can also move videos downloaded on my PC directly to my Firestick via my home network using a file manager app.
So doing all that does it make the fire stick 4k Max better at watching Discovery Plus? Doing what you do is not an advantage. Using my Roku Ultra yes the actual Roku Ultra not the LT like in this video I never have to clear the cache or force stop apps.
I have a Roku 4K stick hooked to port 3 on my Onkyo AVR ( 2.1 port ) . If the CEC is working properly, I just hit the enter button and my receiver and TV fire right up. Since most mid tier TV's up have either Google Assistant or Alexa built in your can turn your TV on with your voice any way.
I like the Roku for its better menus, and because the Firestick has, in effect, too many ads for Amazon products. But the reason I got a Firestick 4K Max for the newest addition to our setup, is that it uses Wifi 6, which I needed for better reach to the basement TV. (And I have to say, it does give us great speeds with the Wifi 6 router.) I wish Roku would move on to release a Wifi 6 product soon. Unless I've missed some Roku news?
Great video. I've been a Roku fan for over six month and bought a firestick. Well, to make a long story short, I couldn't get it to work. Hooked it up, plugged it in and nothing. Got a second one and it at least downloaded the update then went blank. Plugged the Roku back in and it came right up. Any Ideas??
As an installer i would think you would choose Roku since you didn't have to setup up each one only the 1st one then all the others you just have to long in and they clone reach other you didn't even have to sign into apps. Plus the simple interface make Roku a winner.
I do agree with that. I wish Firestick would copy that. However since you can’t use your voice to change the channels with Roku, or control external audio equipment, we tend to go the other way. Once Roku steps up on that, we’d prob switch. For us it’s about features for our customer and not how simple it is to install. It’s a good point though.
Thanks for making this very useful observation. I wish I would have read this a couple of years ago. I have 2 TV's with the Roku operating system built into them and 2 TV's that I have a Fire stick for. And this issue was confusing me. WRZ 2022-12-25
@@davidberry2188 I assume that you mean your Roku remote. There are some configurations that do allow that but a lot of sound bars are hooked up via Digital Audio cable and Rokus usually fall short in that case.
I believe the Ultra has an ir receiver so it can be controlled by a smart remote, the fire stick doesn’t. I don’t recall this being talked about. The biggest downside to the Roku is the text size is nearly unreadable (very small) when displaying episode descriptions which isn’t an issue with Apple TV or Firestick.
I don't know what you've got going on there but I am able to control everything with my Roku remote. I've had fire sticks and they're awful. All my components are plugged into my receiver and my receiver is connected to my TV. With that setup, my Roku remote is able to turn on the TV and the receiver and control the volume.
On my tcl 6 series which is a Roku tv.there is a setting called cec when turned on and soundbar plugged into earc.The Roku remote controls both tv and soundbar both.
I have a BOSE sound link speaker that I set up from my ROKU TV headphone out to my BOSE speaker in and that works but that is on the ROKU TV only. The ROKU TV has a great feature for antenna tv users as well with the channels line up that transfer to ROKU STREAMING CHANNELS from the antenna mode. The major downfall is that it does not allow picking channels by station numbers which offers close to 1000 channel choices. The antenna channel also offers signals strength to help you tune your antenna position plus by adding a large flash drive you can FREE DVR your antenna tv. The microphone option helps you find desired show selections and under what app you can find it under as well if it a Free, Buy or Rent option for you.
I had issues with the Roku 4K stick hooking up with my LG magic smart remote. I also run an optical cable to my soundbar (zvox) . The fire stick works because it’s CEC compatible. Is the Roku Ultra CEC compatible. Is the a wifi vs IR issue with Roku.
I also think it deoends on what system you get used to using first I see your typing to search for apps -“channels” to add to your list on Roku and I don’t really see that as any different than the search on Fire stick 4K Max - I’m just more familiar with Fire Stick so of course if I had to use Roku I’d have to pause and think about what I’m seeing and have to do and that might make me question why Roku doesn’t do it “my way” annoy me or frustrate me - but that’s like moving from iOS to android and it’s my problem not the tech.
I just bought a brand new Ultra and it connects very easily to my voice controlled homes Google assistant and even has earbuds so I can watch tv while my hubby sleeps. It also has “find my remote “ that makes remote beep. I love it. As a bedridden cancer (wheelchair/bed) patient it’s awesome. I am 71 I want it kiss- keep it simple stupid! I can’t jump up to reset things. They offer skins for their remotes too as we have a Roku TV, an Ultra in bedroom and express in living room. Their audio (not sound bar) is awesome and easy. On remote #1&2 can be customized. And with the connection to Google Assistant I can turn on and off lights. Open front door and it saved my friends life. She was having a heart attack- she turned her outdoor lights on called 911, looked up TH-cam of what to do with signs of heart attack- it even let ems in with door kicks. Truly it’s Awesome when it all comes together!
I wanted to go with fire-stick originally, but I’m hearing that it runs slow, freezes constantly, runs out of space constantly, and doesn’t reach out as well as the roku if your router is far away causing lower signal. In your experience are any of those claims true? Or somewhat true? Thanks for the video.
I haven’t run into the things you were describing. Typically Firesticks works really good for us. Like anything, there are a lot of flavors of them and I think some of the symptoms you were describing are on some of the cheaper ones. So I think as long as you’re stuck with the 4K and 4K max, you’d be just fine but I also haven’t had any issue with Roku so that’s a good decision as well.
@@psychoslingers8732 I purchased the Firestick 4K. I have very fast internet and wifi in my RV, but the Firestick still suffered from buffering, freezing, and other issues. I had to restart it at least twice per day. Switched to the Roku and have had no problems. That's real world results.
I have a firestick 4k upstairs on wifi that is 50mps in Canada provided by a real fiber system from Bell canada. The router/modem is downstairs in the corner. No issues ever with buffering on any streamer where we pay a fee to enjoy. WE have the following on WIFI - 2 phones, 2 tablets, 1 laptop, 2 amazon Show devices, 2 firesticks, 3 Echo speakers, 1 yamaha Alexa soundbar = 13 devices and no issues at all using 50MPS in Canada. 5 of my immediate neighbors also use the same system with less devices and no issues. So much for everyone needing 500MPS or 1 GB. In canada we can now get 3 GBS. Why? That's enough per second GPS for 60 residences. That is proof positive that Firesticks have no issues. Possibly users need new router/modems. WE use Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney & Paramount + for streamong without any issue. None of these sytems use more than 15mps - So why does someone need 1GPS - 3GPS?
I picked Firestick, because most of the people I know had it. That's it. I don't know that much about Roku. I did it to cut the cable cost and because I like movies. Well, the powers that be are cutting the new movies (the old movies I may already have on DVD). I'm from a time when tv was free. No, you didn't get new movies, but I don't want to pay anyone to watch anything. That's why I invested in my own equipment. Example: I love anything Star Trek, but I have no intention of paying a dime to Paramount to see them. When their value drops to zero, they may let me see them. If not, I will continue to live just fine. If roku would let me see them, I might buy one. One time charge. Yes, you do need a sound bar, but what's a good one?
You can control the volume of the sound bar with the roku remote by connecting the sounbar to hdmi arc. When you do this the roku wil turn on the tv and sound bar so all you need is the roku remote.
I agree with most of the comments except with the Roku remote. My Roku remote can turn on/off the TV as well as change the soundbar volume. I do not get why you are having issues with controlling the volume on the soundbar. FYI - Neither my TV or soundbar are Roku branded.
There aren’t any issues with it in some cases. However, the conditions have to be correct for this to work. Typically that means the TV is connected to your sound bar via HDMI arc. You’re not actually controlling the sound bar with the Roku in that case. You’re controlling the TV and the TV tells the sound bar to go up or down in volume. The issue I have with the remote is that it will not control the sound bar directly.
If I get a Firestick 4k max and want to hook it up to Ethernet, can I use the Ethernet built into the TV or do I have to use an external adapter connected directly to the Firestick?
@@homeconnectsolutions Thanks for the reply. That does answer the question. The Fire Stick would need to be directly connected to Ethernet instead of getting Ethernet from the TV.
Recently swapped out my cable boxes for Rokus (before seeing video). I have the "simple" setups (no sound bars, receivers, etc.) so it works great for me. One other issue with the remote, however. It might just be me, but I tend to press remote buttons with my right index finger instead of my thumb. Always have, As a result, the way I hold the remote I tend to inadvertently hit the volume/mute buttons on the side of the Roku remote. Not sure why those had to be on the side instead of the face of the remote. One quick question: 2 of my TVs are in adjacent rooms (living room and den). If there is a game on in which I have significant interest (or show), I will have both TVs on so I can do things going back and forth between rooms and stay "connected" to the game. When I had cable boxes that were hard wired (not wifi) they were always perfectly synched. Now, with the wifi Rokus there is a SLIGHT lag and one will be, maybe, 1 second behind the other This obviously creates an echo effect which is annoying. Any way to resolve this? Any devices I can add to delay the "faster" one to synch up to the slower one? Thanks!
As far as your Roku remote, I don’t know why they put the volume on the side like that, but they’re all that way. You may have to retrain yourself to use your thumbs if you can. As far as the streaming being in sync, as of today, the answer is no. Streaming tends to be a little bit more out of sync than traditional cable. However, it sounds like yours was fairly in sync, but I have seen many other cases where the cable boxes were not in sync either. About the only way you can make them be perfectly in sync would be to run both TVs from the same device. This can require some fancy AV set up.
When using a sound bar with Roku, just use the headphone jack on TV to go to the sound bar. It will be in stereo instead of Dolby digital. It won't really matter because it's a sound bar and not a a high end surround sound receiver.
My girlfriend gave me a TCL 55" Roku Smart TV. I purchased a TCL sound bar and connected it with a ARC HDMI cable. Through the ARC cable the sound bar is controlled through the Roku remote that came with the TV. Which turns the power on and off and controls the volume. The issue with the basic sound bar is that the lip movements it just slightly out of sync by about a quarter second. Most of the time this is not a big deal. And I don't have to subscribe to Amazon Prime to get content. I'm able to control many Roku functions through my echo Dot which is part of my home automation controlling the lights, etc.
I would like to ask a question though. I just got the ROKU ulta and I already have the ROKU hooked up to my TV system. To change over to the new ROKU ultra do I have to re-download all my apps and all again or is there a way to do this when switching to new unit?
The info about the Roku is incorrect. I have a Roku Express 4k (a lesser model than the ultra) and it control works with my setup vizio tv with a sony receiver. It controls the tv power and the volume/mute on the receiver perfectly.
I have a Samsung TV and I installed Smart Switch app my TV us set up to recognize and when I click on the app from my phone then choose cast device I have the choice of using Samsung TV device or ROKU connection device usually I have less of a problem choosing the ROKU connection than the Samsung connection as for some reason the Samsung connect will occasionally stop somewhere and you have to reconnect the device and I don't seem to have that problem when I choose the ROKU connection. Hope this helps.
I have the Roku 4k + with a TCL TV and TCL soundbar and I can control everything with my Roku remote. I can turn up the sound and when I cut the power off the TV and soundbar both go off at the same time so I only need the Roku remote to do it all. I love the Roku I have 3 of them in separate rooms of my house. I can also use my cellphone to control everything if I download the Roku app. Just wanted to let everyone know that my Roku remote does do everything I need.
Thanks for the comment. I’m guessing that your TCL Soundbar is connected to your TV via HDMI which uses ARC to control the sound from the TV to be sent to the soundbar. Which is why the Roku can control it. It’s a great setup and I’m glad it’s working well for you. And just so everyone also knows, firestick also has an app that can control all the TVs with your phone as well.
I have a vizio tv connected to a vizio soundbar and I'm using a roku 4k+on that one and my soundbar is connected by optical cord and my roku remote worked the soundbar volume and power for over a year and a day ago it just stopped controlling the soundbar but will control the TV and i cant figure out what happen to that all of a sudden.
Thanks David. Yes. If you have your TV hooked to your soundbar via HDMI ARC, it works just fine. That is because the TV is controlling the soundbar and the Roku is controlling the TV. I should have included that in my video. Glad you’re having a good experience though.
Fire Cube vs Roku Ultra is a more fair fight. I like Roku for data security and all the content and no ads. Yes, I swap remotes but the Alexa can still turn on my TV and open channels. It's fine 🙂
@@tamiltholaikatchi you need the one that comes with each one. If you're asking if a Roku remote would work on Fire cube , then no and vice versa. If you have both hooked up to the same TV it may be possible as a universal remote for volume and Alexa type commands. I'm sure I understand the question
No, you cannot. It Hass to be on the android operating system. I’m not sure how much storage Roku comes with. If you wanted to get something with a little more power that can run that app, look at the Nvidia shield.
The Roku can definitely control whatever it is plugged directly into So TVs aren’t really a problem. If you have a sound bar, the Roku remote can struggle with that. Unless your TV is connected to your sound equipment via e-ARC and then typically you can make it work
If you have external sound equipment you’re concerned about, there is a device called a side click that clips onto the side of the Roku remote and is a universal remote to allow you to control other devices.
I have two Roku Ultra's hooked up to two different receivers with ARC / HDMI-CEC and both allow me to control receiver volume with the roku remote (also turns tv and receiver on w/ power button)... This gear isn't that new either one TV Toshiba 1080P tv from about 2008~ and a Yamaha RX-V473 that is something like 11~ years old. The other setup is also 3~ish years old and it was no problem getting roku remote to power tv and receiver on and control volume.. I just bought a Firestick 4K as it was very cheap over xmas... In fairness I have been using the Roku for years..but I kinda hate the Firestick 4K so far... the remote feels cheap and is too small and the buttons feel "bad" ... Also I would have to sideload the app for my online only Spectrum TV package....which is "fine" but more hassle than with the Roku... hopefully amazon and spectrum will make the app available from the appstore (or whatever it is called on Firestick?...I don't remember)... but yeah I loath the Firestick remote...
That is true in the ARC setup. I wish I would have included that in the video because a majority of the comments have mentioned that. I understand the feelings on Roku vs Firestick. I wasn’t aware that the spectrum app didn’t work in Firestick. Most of my cord cutters are using something like Hulu Live or TH-cam TV and the firesticks work great for that. Especially if you want to change channels with your voice. Thanks for sharing though. I always like to learn.
BTW - if you have a decent soundbar it should have eARC - the soundbar hooks to the eARC port on your TV / Roku can hook into another 2.1 port. You then configure the TV for external speakers and you should have no problems. My problem with Alexa - its been proven that it ALWAYS LISTENS to whatever you're saying - privacy concerns abound.
ROKU has solved the issue of their remote not controlling the soundbar. You just have to buy the "ROKU Soundbar Pro" instead of another manufacturer's soundbar. If your just setting up a system with a ROKU device or a ROKU TV, the ROKU soundbar is a wise choice.
I use The Roku ultra because it gives you a choice of ethernet or Wi-Fi connection. I Like to use ethernet connection whenever possible. However I do see that the latest fire cube has an ethernet connection. I am a big Alexa user. This video has pointed out some nice features of using the fire stick as opposed to Roku. Fire cube may be my next move.
Amazon firestick allows you to install an Ethernet adapter so you can hard wire it as well. (Just so you know) That’s what I do at my house. Works great. They are $15. amzn.to/3ZY4B91
I have a Roku Ultra and a Firestick.......after about 5 years or so it simply doesn't work. It won't respond to any remote. It has had trouble streaming live events even though it is connected to the internet via ethernet. The Firestick is much easier to find apps to add but the wifi is slow and the audio doesn't want to match the video of Prime videos as a movie progresses. I can watch the same movie via my tv app directly with no problem. Quite frankly I don't much use for either one as my tv downloads apps and works just fine. It also allows me to watch movies via my local pc network. As far as sound my Yamaha surround sound system works just fine.
Roku is the only way to go. Why...? Firestick is geared to Amazon, just as Chromecast is geared to Google, or Apple TV is geared to Apple. Roku is just a streaming device, and it does it very well with NO bias toward any one streaming service or ecosystem. The only alternative would be the nVidia Shield or Shield Pro, which is Android-based...
You are wrong about the Roku NOT being able to control a soundbar. Our 6-year old Yamaha soundbar is NOT connected to our Roku Ultra, but ONLY to the TV and the Roku remote has been programmed to turn our soundbar on/off AND control its volume from the side volume switches. Roku HAS instructions, specifically,to be able to setup the Roku remote to control any make/model of soundbar. Works just fine.
My guess is that your TV is connected to your soundbar via HDMI arc, but if you do have some instructions that explain how program your sound bar to control a Yamaha sound bar directly, I’d love for you to link them in the comments.
Roku, either in the box OR online has or had past instructions on how to pair their remotes to diffrerent makes/models of soundbars, directly, Our newest Roku Ultra ( no LT ) is a only a few years old and it has the voice control remote and another even older Roku Ultra model had the same capabilty with its older remote, without the voice control feature. Both remotes could be setup to control our Yamaha soundbar. You need to look into this feature I am sure it is still available as our 3-year old Roku Ultra is compatible with the new Roku rechargeable, voice actiavted remote, which I just, recently, ordered and I am confident that I will be able to pair that new Roku remote with my 5-6 year old soundbar, when I receive it. Roku has procedures for this. The Yamaha soundbar is turned on/off by the main Roku remote power button and controlling the Yamaha sound bar volume levels are controlled by the Roku remote side volume buttons. I see no reason why this shouldn't work for other well-known, brand name soundbars.
No.There is NO HDMI connection to the soundbar, at all.My TV has a dedicated Digital Audio out connection. That connection is what is being used to connected the Yamaha soundbar to my TV.
What's wrong with Android and Google? I have all three open-sourced based platforms--cheapo-level..(Apple is not ) Started out with off-brands, including BluRay players--had no control or config with fixed apps. They all died-off. Then Chromecast--no remote. Got Roku, then Fire. Really liked Roku then Wished Chromecast had remote. Later, Onn and Google included remote. My goto became Google/Android, then. Prefer remote--still cast, somrtimes. One thing sbout Roku LE now--just can't get 5mhz signal--only 2.4. Amazon has a lot of content. Virtually no music video is in their music app., though. You mentioned nVidia Shield-:that's Android, but it has lots of incompatabilities/problems. Cheapo Onn--love it. Have lower res Google, too. TV is Vizio D-series Android: No Google Play. Only recently can one get a single weather app--weather channel. And, that's behind a pay wall. Android TVs seem not to be allowed to have Google Play. So, they must manage their own app stores. ? BS! Samsung, Vizio, etc. name it something else. I like that YT music videos are native on Google Play devices. I've also expanded my music genres--thanks to Google. It's a far bigger world--one that's no longer so poorly "curatec" by radio stations, djs, mega-media cos., etc. I do use Amazon, too: They're also best for their native content. My Android devices do have access--in the same manner It seems that Roku is simple(ton): Amazon and Google allow far more tweaking..Rolu also has their own content. Their devices are good. Roku: If I desire to change wifi sources--I must then put in the passphrase--others just connect? Bad, Roku! I know that this is an installer's channel: Intended for the well-heeled. Is using solely one rermote that big a deal?
Yes. It does have voice commands. However with a firestick remote, you can change the channel with your voice inside TH-cam Tv and Hulu live. Roku does not allow that. So it depends on what you want to use your voice to do.
That's not true. You can ask roku to find the weather and it will give it to you. And unfortunately this guy doesn't know much about audio so he doesn't know how to hook things up correctly I would look to someone who is more advanced in this area.
I appreciate the comment. (sorta) However, I stand by what I stated that the voice controls on Roku are limited. Yes, you can ask it the weather as well as some other things, but when you compare them to the Firestick or even a Chromecast with Google TV, you find the limitation quickly. Also, I realize that if you hook up your TV to your soundbar via HDMI eARC then the remote can control the volume. However, that doesn't negate the fact that you can't program the remote to control external sound equipment directly. It takes that specific setup to work. I am simply pointing out the differences and everything I stated is correct.
I remember when you used to have to get up walk to the TV to adjust the volume or change the channel😅🤣☹😫
Or hit your kid brother or sister in the head telling them to change it...🙃🤣
We only got channel 2,4,5 and sometimes 9. There was better content then on those 4 channels than hundreds of channels today.
Ha! I remember when I had to go outside and turn the antenna pole! Dad would be yelling, "NO! TURN IT THE OTHER WAY!" 😂😂😂
Me too man lol I even had to hold bunny ears a couple of times.
@@jonsmith9730😂
Here is an interesting question: is it possible to hook up a ROKU stick to a ROKU Smart TV? And how would I do that? I find the Smart TV disappointing, constantly disconnecting from the internet. A problem I never had with the ROKU stick. By the by, I was told that Flat screen TVs are no longer available, at least at Best Buy, only Smart TVs can be purchased.
This led me to get the Roku. Thank you for your input for different scenarios (receiver + non-smart tv + several game consoles). Another remote and clutter is no big deal to me.
Thank you very much for showing this video .. I have done it on fire stick now thanks for your help
My roku does great plugged into my receiver and runs my home theater just fine.
There is the roku soundbar as an option. Which has Roku inside its own sound bar.
Nice now I know what to pick. Thanks!😁😁😃
I prefer Roku Ultra, especially over other Roku devices. I had both a Roku Ultra and a Roku stick. The as I added channels to my Roku, the Ultra seemed to be able to add more channels than I really ever needed, at the same time I started having problems with my Roku Stick. The Roku Stick which was on the same account started malfunctioning... I soon realized why. As I added more and more channels to the Ultra, the Stick was also picking up the fact I added those channel to the account and was adding them also. The stick did not have the same amount of memory, so it became overloaded and soon became kludgy and basically inoperable. I started deleting all the channels on my account that I either did not use, or were preinstalled and kept the only ones that I watched. The Stick came back to being a well functioning device once I trimmed the "fat".
I no longer have a Roku Stick and absolutely love my Ultra. Another thing about the Roku, is that I can add my Amazon account to it and watch Amazon Prime and Amazon Music. I do not need a Firestick for Amazon. The Roku Channel also has lots of stuff on it I might have to pay for other wise, and it is free. The fact that Pluto, Freevee, and other free streaming services make it great as a cost cutter. If I need to I can eliminate all the paid channels and still have as much or more video and audio content than my cable provider gives me. I would like to try a Firestick, but so far I do not have a device like Chrome or Firestick as those two services already know more about me than I would like.
The reason I would like to try the Firestick is the ability to side load apps. As far as Firestick having the ability to add memory in the form of flash memory as mentioned below, many Roku devices can do the same. Since the Roku Ultra is a box you can place on you TV stand or mantle, It is easier to insert and remove the memory, and not have to fiddle with something on the back of the television. Also my friend purchased a Roku TV. When the internal Roku started having problems, his TV was fine, but he still had to add an external Roku.
The reason why I never bought a an all-in-one stereo and always bought component system. If something goes bad, you replace one part, not the entire thing. I have been also thinking of adding an Android TV device, There are many different one out there, and being able to add a browser or other android apps to it some thing I wish was easy to do, I even just thought maybe I should get a mini ITX computer, run Android on it and basically have an Android TV box that I custom built with the apps I want. There are some streaming services that can not be added or accessed by Roku or Amazon, but can be accessed by computers, tablets, and cell phones that run Windows, MacOS, Linus or Android.
Thanks for the informative video. I have a 5-year old Sony Bravia and matching Sony soundbar. The soundbar is connected to the TV using HDMI eARC. The volume control on the Roku Ultra remote controls the soundbar volume without problem.
Same here on my TCL tv and TCL soundbar.
I have Rokus and the Firestick on one TV and find the Roku much easier to deal with, the Firestick does have a few advantages like using it to ask Alexa to do things but it doesn't have as many channels and they tend to be more buggy on the Firestick. I have a Roku TV with Roku wireless speakers and a Roku subwoofer and it is a great sound system. I would instead get the Roku soundbar if I had a non-Roku TV.
I have a Roku Ultra, a Sony Smart TV, and a Yamaha Dolby Atmos Receiver. The Roku remote controls everything. All that is required is to insure CEC is enabled on both the TV and receiver. That being done, the Roku remote changes apps, turns everything on and off, and controls volume and mute.
Thank you for your great information!!
Just to let you know if you have a Roku Smart TV it does control the volume of your soundbar. If you have a fire stick plugged in it will go right to it and still you can control the soundbar volume with the fire stick remote.
Advantages of Firestick not talked about in the video: add 3rd party apps; adapters to add accessories like a flashdrive for more storage or a keyboard; I can also move videos downloaded on my PC directly to my Firestick via my home network using a file manager app.
So doing all that does it make the fire stick 4k Max better at watching Discovery Plus?
Doing what you do is not an advantage. Using my Roku Ultra yes the actual Roku Ultra not the LT like in this video I never have to clear the cache or force stop apps.
I have a Roku 4K stick hooked to port 3 on my Onkyo AVR ( 2.1 port ) .
If the CEC is working properly, I just hit the enter button and my receiver and TV fire right up.
Since most mid tier TV's up have either Google Assistant or Alexa built in your can turn your TV on with your voice any way.
I like the Roku for its better menus, and because the Firestick has, in effect, too many ads for Amazon products. But the reason I got a Firestick 4K Max for the newest addition to our setup, is that it uses Wifi 6, which I needed for better reach to the basement TV. (And I have to say, it does give us great speeds with the Wifi 6 router.) I wish Roku would move on to release a Wifi 6 product soon. Unless I've missed some Roku news?
@@B_Rad0cube???
Great video. I've been a Roku fan for over six month and bought a firestick. Well, to make a long story short, I couldn't get it to work. Hooked it up, plugged it in and nothing. Got a second one and it at least downloaded the update then went blank. Plugged the Roku back in and it came right up. Any Ideas??
As an installer i would think you would choose Roku since you didn't have to setup up each one only the 1st one then all the others you just have to long in and they clone reach other you didn't even have to sign into apps. Plus the simple interface make Roku a winner.
I do agree with that. I wish Firestick would copy that. However since you can’t use your voice to change the channels with Roku, or control external audio equipment, we tend to go the other way. Once Roku steps up on that, we’d prob switch. For us it’s about features for our customer and not how simple it is to install. It’s a good point though.
Thanks for making this very useful observation.
I wish I would have read this a couple of years ago.
I have 2 TV's with the Roku operating system built into them
and 2 TV's that I have a Fire stick for.
And this issue was confusing me.
WRZ 2022-12-25
@@homeconnectsolutions I can control my soundbar volume and search for movies or TV shows with my remote.
@@davidberry2188 I assume that you mean your Roku remote. There are some configurations that do allow that but a lot of sound bars are hooked up via Digital Audio cable and Rokus usually fall short in that case.
Firestick does the same thing.
I like to have the capability of using my LG Magic remote to control the fire stick. What Roku products are compatible with the Magic remote?
Will the fire stick work with a new Samsung smart tv
I believe the Ultra has an ir receiver so it can be controlled by a smart remote, the fire stick doesn’t. I don’t recall this being talked about. The biggest downside to the Roku is the text size is nearly unreadable (very small) when displaying episode descriptions which isn’t an issue with Apple TV or Firestick.
Can you watch your recorded shows on multiple TV's?
Yes...Thank you. bro!
I don't know what you've got going on there but I am able to control everything with my Roku remote. I've had fire sticks and they're awful.
All my components are plugged into my receiver and my receiver is connected to my TV. With that setup, my Roku remote is able to turn on the TV and the receiver and control the volume.
On my tcl 6 series which is a Roku tv.there is a setting called cec when turned on and soundbar plugged into earc.The Roku remote controls both tv and soundbar both.
Yes... eARC is required for having your TV control your sound bar. It works that way with the regular Rokus as well.
I have a BOSE sound link speaker that I set up from my ROKU TV headphone out to my BOSE speaker in and that works but that is on the ROKU TV only.
The ROKU TV has a great feature for antenna tv users as well with the channels line up that transfer to ROKU STREAMING CHANNELS from the antenna mode. The major downfall is that it does not allow picking channels by station numbers which offers close to 1000 channel choices.
The antenna channel also offers signals strength to help you tune your antenna position plus by adding a large flash drive you can FREE DVR your antenna tv.
The microphone option helps you find desired show selections and under what app you can find it under as well if it a Free, Buy or Rent option for you.
I had issues with the Roku 4K stick hooking up with my LG magic smart remote. I also run an optical cable to my soundbar (zvox) . The fire stick works because it’s CEC compatible. Is the Roku Ultra CEC compatible. Is the a wifi vs IR issue with Roku.
I also think it deoends on what system you get used to using first I see your typing to search for apps -“channels” to add to your list on Roku and I don’t really see that as any different than the search on Fire stick 4K Max - I’m just more familiar with Fire Stick so of course if I had to use Roku I’d have to pause and think about what I’m seeing and have to do and that might make me question why Roku doesn’t do it “my way” annoy me or frustrate me - but that’s like moving from iOS to android and it’s my problem not the tech.
Very informative! Thanks!
I just bought a brand new Ultra and it connects very easily to my voice controlled homes Google assistant and even has earbuds so I can watch tv while my hubby sleeps. It also has “find my remote “ that makes remote beep. I love it. As a bedridden cancer (wheelchair/bed) patient it’s awesome. I am 71 I want it kiss- keep it simple stupid! I can’t jump up to reset things. They offer skins for their remotes too as we have a Roku TV, an Ultra in bedroom and express in living room.
Their audio (not sound bar) is awesome and easy. On remote #1&2 can be customized. And with the connection to Google Assistant I can turn on and off lights. Open front door and it saved my friends life. She was having a heart attack- she turned her outdoor lights on called 911, looked up TH-cam of what to do with signs of heart attack- it even let ems in with door kicks. Truly it’s Awesome when it all comes together!
considering options but the simplicity and more privacy is way more important than quality of life stuff i can live without.
I haven't had an issue with the volume control of the sound bar on the roku remote. Which sound bar do you use?
I wanted to go with fire-stick originally, but I’m hearing that it runs slow, freezes constantly, runs out of space constantly, and doesn’t reach out as well as the roku if your router is far away causing lower signal. In your experience are any of those claims true? Or somewhat true? Thanks for the video.
I haven’t run into the things you were describing. Typically Firesticks works really good for us. Like anything, there are a lot of flavors of them and I think some of the symptoms you were describing are on some of the cheaper ones. So I think as long as you’re stuck with the 4K and 4K max, you’d be just fine but I also haven’t had any issue with Roku so that’s a good decision as well.
@@homeconnectsolutions Awesome, thank you so much for your response.
@@psychoslingers8732 I purchased the Firestick 4K. I have very fast internet and wifi in my RV, but the Firestick still suffered from buffering, freezing, and other issues. I had to restart it at least twice per day. Switched to the Roku and have had no problems. That's real world results.
It’s 60$ for the roku in Canada vs 34$ for the 4K fire stick
I have a firestick 4k upstairs on wifi that is 50mps in Canada provided by a real fiber system from Bell canada. The router/modem is downstairs in the corner. No issues ever with buffering on any streamer where we pay a fee to enjoy. WE have the following on WIFI - 2 phones, 2 tablets, 1 laptop, 2 amazon Show devices, 2 firesticks, 3 Echo speakers, 1 yamaha Alexa soundbar = 13 devices and no issues at all using 50MPS in Canada. 5 of my immediate neighbors also use the same system with less devices and no issues. So much for everyone needing 500MPS or 1 GB. In canada we can now get 3 GBS. Why? That's enough per second GPS for 60 residences. That is proof positive that Firesticks have no issues. Possibly users need new router/modems. WE use Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney & Paramount + for streamong without any issue. None of these sytems use more than 15mps - So why does someone need 1GPS - 3GPS?
I picked Firestick, because most of the people I know had it. That's it. I don't know that much about Roku.
I did it to cut the cable cost and because I like movies. Well, the powers that be are cutting the new movies (the old movies I may already have on DVD).
I'm from a time when tv was free. No, you didn't get new movies, but I don't want to pay anyone to watch anything. That's why I invested in my own equipment.
Example: I love anything Star Trek, but I have no intention of paying a dime to Paramount to see them. When their value drops to zero, they may let me see them. If not, I will continue to live just fine.
If roku would let me see them, I might buy one. One time charge.
Yes, you do need a sound bar, but what's a good one?
You can control the volume of the sound bar with the roku remote by connecting the sounbar to hdmi arc. When you do this the roku wil turn on the tv and sound bar so all you need is the roku remote.
Yes that is true... I usually mention that, but not have in this video. Nice catch.
Firestick can sideload apps
I agree with most of the comments except with the Roku remote. My Roku remote can turn on/off the TV as well as change the soundbar volume.
I do not get why you are having issues with controlling the volume on the soundbar.
FYI - Neither my TV or soundbar are Roku branded.
There aren’t any issues with it in some cases. However, the conditions have to be correct for this to work. Typically that means the TV is connected to your sound bar via HDMI arc. You’re not actually controlling the sound bar with the Roku in that case. You’re controlling the TV and the TV tells the sound bar to go up or down in volume. The issue I have with the remote is that it will not control the sound bar directly.
If I get a Firestick 4k max and want to hook it up to Ethernet, can I use the Ethernet built into the TV or do I have to use an external adapter connected directly to the Firestick?
Not fully sure, I understand the question, but in order to connect the 4K fire stick to ethernet, you would need to purchase the ethernet adapter.
@@homeconnectsolutions Thanks for the reply. That does answer the question. The Fire Stick would need to be directly connected to Ethernet instead of getting Ethernet from the TV.
I love the ROKU the best it is much more user-friendly.
Recently swapped out my cable boxes for Rokus (before seeing video). I have the "simple" setups (no sound bars, receivers, etc.) so it works great for me. One other issue with the remote, however. It might just be me, but I tend to press remote buttons with my right index finger instead of my thumb. Always have, As a result, the way I hold the remote I tend to inadvertently hit the volume/mute buttons on the side of the Roku remote. Not sure why those had to be on the side instead of the face of the remote.
One quick question: 2 of my TVs are in adjacent rooms (living room and den). If there is a game on in which I have significant interest (or show), I will have both TVs on so I can do things going back and forth between rooms and stay "connected" to the game. When I had cable boxes that were hard wired (not wifi) they were always perfectly synched. Now, with the wifi Rokus there is a SLIGHT lag and one will be, maybe, 1 second behind the other This obviously creates an echo effect which is annoying. Any way to resolve this? Any devices I can add to delay the "faster" one to synch up to the slower one? Thanks!
As far as your Roku remote, I don’t know why they put the volume on the side like that, but they’re all that way. You may have to retrain yourself to use your thumbs if you can. As far as the streaming being in sync, as of today, the answer is no. Streaming tends to be a little bit more out of sync than traditional cable. However, it sounds like yours was fairly in sync, but I have seen many other cases where the cable boxes were not in sync either. About the only way you can make them be perfectly in sync would be to run both TVs from the same device. This can require some fancy AV set up.
Consider extending just the volume from one TV to the other room and mute the 2nd TV when you're watching the same show on both.
Anybody try using a separate universal remote, or will they not work with Firestick or Roku?
you did not mention the fire cube, which has HDMI output much as the Roku does. Why was this not in the comparison?
When using a sound bar with Roku, just use the headphone jack on TV to go to the sound bar. It will be in stereo instead of Dolby digital. It won't really matter because it's a sound bar and not a a high end surround sound receiver.
My girlfriend gave me a TCL 55" Roku Smart TV. I purchased a TCL sound bar and connected it with a ARC HDMI cable.
Through the ARC cable the sound bar is controlled through the Roku remote that came with the TV.
Which turns the power on and off and controls the volume.
The issue with the basic sound bar is that the lip movements it just slightly out of sync by about a quarter second. Most of the time this is not a big deal. And I don't have to subscribe to Amazon Prime to get content.
I'm able to control many Roku functions through my echo Dot which is part of my home automation controlling the lights, etc.
I would like to ask a question though. I just got the ROKU ulta and I already have the ROKU hooked up to my TV system. To change over to the new ROKU ultra do I have to re-download all my apps and all again or is there a way to do this when switching to new unit?
The info about the Roku is incorrect. I have a Roku Express 4k (a lesser model than the ultra) and it control works with my setup vizio tv with a sony receiver. It controls the tv power and the volume/mute on the receiver perfectly.
What's this about guarding your private information from Amazon? Is it more secure with Roku?
How about the Chromecast?
I like Chromecast ok. (Now, google TV). I may have to do a video on them at a later date.
What about screen mirroring, can either device do that?
I have a Samsung TV and I installed Smart Switch app my TV us set up to recognize and when I click on the app from my phone then choose cast device I have the choice of using Samsung TV device or ROKU connection device usually I have less of a problem choosing the ROKU connection than the Samsung connection as for some reason the Samsung connect will occasionally stop somewhere and you have to reconnect the device and I don't seem to have that problem when I choose the ROKU connection. Hope this helps.
I have the Roku 4k + with a TCL TV and TCL soundbar and I can control everything with my Roku remote. I can turn up the sound and when I cut the power off the TV and soundbar both go off at the same time so I only need the Roku remote to do it all. I love the Roku I have 3 of them in separate rooms of my house. I can also use my cellphone to control everything if I download the Roku app. Just wanted to let everyone know that my Roku remote does do everything I need.
Thanks for the comment. I’m guessing that your TCL Soundbar is connected to your TV via HDMI which uses ARC to control the sound from the TV to be sent to the soundbar. Which is why the Roku can control it. It’s a great setup and I’m glad it’s working well for you. And just so everyone also knows, firestick also has an app that can control all the TVs with your phone as well.
@@homeconnectsolutions Yes it does.
I have a vizio tv connected to a vizio soundbar and I'm using a roku 4k+on that one and my soundbar is connected by optical cord and my roku remote worked the soundbar volume and power for over a year and a day ago it just stopped controlling the soundbar but will control the TV and i cant figure out what happen to that all of a sudden.
Thanks David. Yes. If you have your TV hooked to your soundbar via HDMI ARC, it works just fine. That is because the TV is controlling the soundbar and the Roku is controlling the TV. I should have included that in my video. Glad you’re having a good experience though.
Fire Cube vs Roku Ultra is a more fair fight. I like Roku for data security and all the content and no ads. Yes, I swap remotes but the Alexa can still turn on my TV and open channels. It's fine 🙂
Can you swap remote between fire and Roku?
@@tamiltholaikatchi you need the one that comes with each one. If you're asking if a Roku remote would work on Fire cube , then no and vice versa. If you have both hooked up to the same TV it may be possible as a universal remote for volume and Alexa type commands. I'm sure I understand the question
Can you use the Kodi App with a Roku device? How much memory do you get on it?
No, you cannot. It Hass to be on the android operating system. I’m not sure how much storage Roku comes with. If you wanted to get something with a little more power that can run that app, look at the Nvidia shield.
The $20 ONN Android box is my fav.
Do you need to buy a Universal remote with Roku to manage the volume?
The Roku can definitely control whatever it is plugged directly into So TVs aren’t really a problem. If you have a sound bar, the Roku remote can struggle with that. Unless your TV is connected to your sound equipment via e-ARC and then typically you can make it work
If you have external sound equipment you’re concerned about, there is a device called a side click that clips onto the side of the Roku remote and is a universal remote to allow you to control other devices.
Do I even need a box or a stick if I got a modern Smart TV that has TH-cam TV APP , Netflix APP , ETC in it??
Nope. You can just use your smart TV in that case.
@M. Warren you're funny! I don't need a box! I don't need a dick, I mean stick! I'm happy right here where I'm at. Thank you very much!
I have two Roku Ultra's hooked up to two different receivers with ARC / HDMI-CEC and both allow me to control receiver volume with the roku remote (also turns tv and receiver on w/ power button)... This gear isn't that new either one TV Toshiba 1080P tv from about 2008~ and a Yamaha RX-V473 that is something like 11~ years old. The other setup is also 3~ish years old and it was no problem getting roku remote to power tv and receiver on and control volume..
I just bought a Firestick 4K as it was very cheap over xmas... In fairness I have been using the Roku for years..but I kinda hate the Firestick 4K so far... the remote feels cheap and is too small and the buttons feel "bad" ... Also I would have to sideload the app for my online only Spectrum TV package....which is "fine" but more hassle than with the Roku... hopefully amazon and spectrum will make the app available from the appstore (or whatever it is called on Firestick?...I don't remember)... but yeah I loath the Firestick remote...
That is true in the ARC setup. I wish I would have included that in the video because a majority of the comments have mentioned that. I understand the feelings on Roku vs Firestick. I wasn’t aware that the spectrum app didn’t work in Firestick. Most of my cord cutters are using something like Hulu Live or TH-cam TV and the firesticks work great for that. Especially if you want to change channels with your voice. Thanks for sharing though. I always like to learn.
BTW - if you have a decent soundbar it should have eARC - the soundbar hooks to the eARC port on your TV / Roku can hook into another 2.1 port. You then configure the TV for external speakers and you should have no problems.
My problem with Alexa - its been proven that it ALWAYS LISTENS to whatever you're saying - privacy concerns abound.
Yes... I should have included that in this video... Very true comment.
It is now 2022. Are people still using old TV's that do not have the Roku or Fire
operating system built into them ?
Millions..... literally
SONY TV's operate on Google TV now.
@@awilderireland
Yeah my next TV will be a Sony.
Roku to control tv sound select external speakers from tv sound menu !!!🤔
I can control volume & on/off on my soundbar with my Roku remote, no problem
ROKU has solved the issue of their remote not controlling the soundbar. You just have to buy the "ROKU Soundbar Pro" instead of another manufacturer's soundbar. If your just setting up a system with a ROKU device or a ROKU TV, the ROKU soundbar is a wise choice.
My 2020 Roku Ultra controls my TV, Soundbar and everything else. I don't see the problem?
I use The Roku ultra because it gives you a choice of ethernet or Wi-Fi connection. I Like to use ethernet connection whenever possible. However I do see that the latest fire cube has an ethernet connection. I am a big Alexa user. This video has pointed out some nice features of using the fire stick as opposed to Roku. Fire cube may be my next move.
Amazon firestick allows you to install an Ethernet adapter so you can hard wire it as well. (Just so you know) That’s what I do at my house. Works great. They are $15. amzn.to/3ZY4B91
@@homeconnectsolutions I did not know that. Thanks for the information. Nice 👍🏻
I have a Roku Ultra and a Firestick.......after about 5 years or so it simply doesn't work. It won't respond to any remote. It has had trouble streaming live events even though it is connected to the internet via ethernet. The Firestick is much easier to find apps to add but the wifi is slow and the audio doesn't want to match the video of Prime videos as a movie progresses. I can watch the same movie via my tv app directly with no problem. Quite frankly I don't much use for either one as my tv downloads apps and works just fine. It also allows me to watch movies via my local pc network. As far as sound my Yamaha surround sound system works just fine.
#1 firestick better then roku, Amazon Silk Browser! we have both devices & firestick wins everynight
No third party apps is a deal breaker for me. Firestick hands down for me.
Roku is the only way to go. Why...? Firestick is geared to Amazon, just as Chromecast is geared to Google, or Apple TV is geared to Apple. Roku is just a streaming device, and it does it very well with NO bias toward any one streaming service or ecosystem. The only alternative would be the nVidia Shield or Shield Pro, which is Android-based...
You are wrong about the Roku NOT being able to control a soundbar. Our 6-year old Yamaha soundbar is NOT connected to our Roku Ultra, but ONLY to the TV and the Roku remote has been programmed to turn our soundbar on/off AND control its volume from the side volume switches. Roku HAS instructions, specifically,to be able to setup the Roku remote to control any make/model of soundbar. Works just fine.
My guess is that your TV is connected to your soundbar via HDMI arc, but if you do have some instructions that explain how program your sound bar to control a Yamaha sound bar directly, I’d love for you to link them in the comments.
Actually, it does not. The Yamaha soundbar connects to the TV via a separate Digital Audio Out connection on the back of my older LG plasma TV.
Roku, either in the box OR online has or had past instructions on how to pair their remotes to diffrerent makes/models of soundbars, directly, Our newest Roku Ultra ( no LT ) is a only a few years old and it has the voice control remote and another even older Roku Ultra model had the same capabilty with its older remote, without the voice control feature.
Both remotes could be setup to control our Yamaha soundbar. You need to look into this feature I am sure it is still available as our 3-year old Roku Ultra is compatible with the new Roku rechargeable, voice actiavted remote, which I just, recently, ordered and I am confident that I will be able to pair that new Roku remote with my 5-6 year old soundbar, when I receive it.
Roku has procedures for this.
The Yamaha soundbar is turned on/off by the main Roku remote power button and controlling the Yamaha sound bar volume levels are controlled by the Roku remote side volume buttons.
I see no reason why this shouldn't work for other well-known, brand name soundbars.
Again, how is the soundbar physically connected to the TV? An HDMI cable plugged into an ARC port I assume.
No.There is NO HDMI connection to the soundbar, at all.My TV has a dedicated Digital Audio out connection. That connection is what is being used to connected the Yamaha soundbar to my TV.
Roku lost me when they screwed up the media player which no longer reads the hard drive on my server. With fire tv I can use Kodi to access my videos.
Roku app connect wireless and wired headphones.
Thats cool. Firestick allows for bluetooth headphones too. I didn't cover that though.
What's wrong with Android and Google? I have all three open-sourced based platforms--cheapo-level..(Apple is not )
Started out with off-brands, including BluRay players--had no control or config with fixed apps. They all died-off.
Then Chromecast--no remote. Got Roku, then Fire. Really liked Roku then Wished Chromecast had remote.
Later, Onn and Google included remote. My goto became Google/Android, then.
Prefer remote--still cast, somrtimes.
One thing sbout Roku LE now--just can't get 5mhz signal--only 2.4.
Amazon has a lot of content. Virtually no music video is in their music app., though.
You mentioned nVidia Shield-:that's Android, but it has lots of incompatabilities/problems.
Cheapo Onn--love it. Have lower res Google, too.
TV is Vizio D-series Android: No Google Play. Only recently can one get a single weather app--weather channel. And, that's behind a pay wall.
Android TVs seem not to be allowed to have Google Play. So, they must manage their own app stores. ? BS! Samsung, Vizio, etc. name it something else.
I like that YT music videos are native on Google Play devices. I've also expanded my music genres--thanks to Google. It's a far bigger world--one that's no longer so poorly "curatec" by radio stations, djs, mega-media cos., etc.
I do use Amazon, too: They're also best for their native content. My Android devices do have access--in the same manner
It seems that Roku is simple(ton): Amazon and Google allow far more tweaking..Rolu also has their own content. Their devices are good.
Roku: If I desire to change wifi sources--I must then put in the passphrase--others just connect? Bad, Roku!
I know that this is an installer's channel: Intended for the well-heeled.
Is using solely one rermote that big a deal?
4K Roku stick is perfect for me.
You didn't get the Roku Ultra you got the Roku Ultra LT. They are not the same device.
Can you side load 3rd party apps to Roku? Can you expand storage with a Roku?
Not to my knowledge, no. (Both questions)
guess what? there's a volume up/down and mute button on the right side of the Roku remote
I’ve had both…4K fire stick and 4K Roku ultra. Roku ultra any day over fire stick
The fire stick is listening to everything you say.
No VPN capability with a Roku. Big deal breaker for me.
plus firestick can use wifi6e, Roku cant
Firestick is a clear winner if you want a vpn
My vote is for Roku, with sound bar & tv speaker turned off.
Those sticks get really hot. I got scolded once touching it.
If you like ads just pick the Fire Stick.
Microphone works on my fire stick remote about 50% of the time
NOT TRUE The Roku enhanced remote has voice commands PLUS the Roku works BETTER with Alexa than the Fire Stick
Yes. It does have voice commands. However with a firestick remote, you can change the channel with your voice inside TH-cam Tv and Hulu live. Roku does not allow that. So it depends on what you want to use your voice to do.
If your TV had HDMI-ARC, Roku will control the sound bar.
Yes. And your soundbar. True. I really wish I would have included that in this video. A lot have pointed out this fact. Thanks for the comment.
Kind of unfair to compare the Roku Ultra box to the Fire Tv Stick when Roku actually makes a stick too. Apples are not oranges!
How do?
Too much commentary .. it’s easier if you get to the point
If your concerned with privacy and don't want Amazon ALEXA in your home, the advantages of the Firestick are lost.
Roku is too locked down. I like my android box. I can download anything I want.
That's not true. You can ask roku to find the weather and it will give it to you. And unfortunately this guy doesn't know much about audio so he doesn't know how to hook things up correctly I would look to someone who is more advanced in this area.
I appreciate the comment. (sorta) However, I stand by what I stated that the voice controls on Roku are limited. Yes, you can ask it the weather as well as some other things, but when you compare them to the Firestick or even a Chromecast with Google TV, you find the limitation quickly. Also, I realize that if you hook up your TV to your soundbar via HDMI eARC then the remote can control the volume. However, that doesn't negate the fact that you can't program the remote to control external sound equipment directly. It takes that specific setup to work. I am simply pointing out the differences and everything I stated is correct.
So basically fire stick is better
Ice spice is in fortnite
Just get a Nvidia shield and be done with it!
roku menu looks aweful
why are you looking at yourself very unprofessional
Remotes Get a universal remote program everything to universal remote I use Logitech Harmony. It can control your whole house of smart things