Roku Ultra VS Apple TV 4K: Which Streaming Device is Best

Quick Summary

The innovative 2021 Apple TV 4K is the way to go for an ultra-modern streaming experience. Its pristine, ad-free interface will curate your content like no other, and its brand-new remote offers improved navigation compared to earlier models.

On the flip side, those looking for a more economical choice may find Roku Ultra’s classic app-based layout easier in their pockets but with none of that sleekness in the former device.

Content

Apple TV 4K offers a comprehensive range of content, giving you access to the most popular formats – HDR10 and Dolby Vision. Along with these well-known offerings comes an extensive app marketplace comparable to other iOS devices: everything from Prime Video and Hulu to HBO Max and Disney+, as well as Sling TV and much more!

Roku Ultra provides you with the utmost flexibility when it comes to selecting what streaming service is best for your wallet. This device’s search feature goes beyond simply displaying results from its own apps, presenting you with an unbiased list of all available versions and their prices in order so that cost-conscious viewers can easily make a decision without missing out on any offerings.

Plus, whereas Apple TV may lead users towards certain preferred providers regardless of price point, Roku still puts more power back into streamers’ hands (and wallets)!

With Roku, you can unlock a world of entertainment! Stream your favorite apps like Prime Video, Vudu, Hulu and more – plus get access to The Roku Channel with lots of free streaming content.

Looking for something else? Connect a USB or microSD card and enjoy movies downloaded directly to your device. Unfortunately, HBO Max isn’t available due to the ongoing standoff between them – but all the other top providers are there waiting for you!

Interface Basics

Apple TV 4K is the clear choice for streaming with its 64-bit A10X Fusion chip and beautiful, fast interface free of ads. Its consistent layout across apps means users don’t have to switch between different interfaces when watching their favorite shows on multiple platforms.

Also, tvOS 13 introduces a new feature that automatically adds freshly released episodes straight into your list! While some may find auto-playing trailers irritating, this can be disabled in subsequent updates.

With Apple TV, it’s easy to keep your family entertained and connected. The device saves all logins, so you only have to enter them once. The users can create a profile for each individual in their household! And the visuals are just as great, with gorgeous drone shots of cities from around the world that make amazing screensavers.

Additionally, there is no slowdown – even faster than Roku. But if speed isn’t an issue, then Fire TV may be worth checking out since its ads don’t interfere with user experience like on Roku devices (but at the cost of quality).

With Roku, you’ll find yourself stuck in a time warp of confusing layouts and controls. Even the Automatic Account Link feature won’t keep track of all your usernames and passwords effortlessly – only Hulu, SlingTV or Philo can be taken care of automatically. For every other app, you’ll have to enter details manually.

The bright spot is that its Feed system does help discover new films & shows, but even it has drawbacks: no way to unfollow a show once seen, lack of access to many apps, plus viewing is limited when there are releases rather than previewing what’s on offer ahead-of-time too

Putting it frankly: if Apple TV sets standards across the board with its universal interface experience, then Roku lags behind quite significantly!

Ecosystem Interface

Apple TV is a powerful streaming device that creates the perfect setup when used with an iPhone. With its fast speeds and easy installation, you can access content from your other devices in seconds – no tedious entering of information necessary! Plus, using the iCloud Keychain means less time spent typing up passwords on those cumbersome remotes; just use your phone as a command center for all tasks.

Apple’s technology is renowned for being straightforward and easy to use. Unfortunately, their “Apple TV” brand name has caused some confusion! There are three distinct services related to Apple TV; the device itself, ‘Up Next’ content through the app on that device or other devices, and premium streaming with Apple TV+ and Apple Channels.

All of these offer different features, such as 22 streaming channels hosted by apple servers which boost speed & resolution, so your viewing experience is seamless across all compatible platforms. This gives you a consistent user layout regardless of whether you’re watching something on an iPad or iPhone!

Whether you’re seeking a subscription to your favorite shows or just want an easy way to keep everything in one place, Apple TV is the clear winner. With its deep library of content and wide range of features – like “Up Next” lists for recommendations – it stands apart from Roku’s much more limited offerings.

In fact, with each app boasting different layouts and capabilities on Roku compared to consistent navigation found across all apps on Apple TV, there really isn’t any comparison – when it comes down to streaming entertainment options out there today, AppleTV reigns supreme!

Smarts

With Apple TV, you can make use of the clever Siri for a smooth and efficient search experience. You won’t even need to worry about your smart home devices when away from home, as it is an excellent HomeKit hub that allows users to control thermostats, lights or locks easily.

Additionally, this streaming device includes AirPlay which mirrors content from iPhone easily, and connects Bluetooth headphones without difficulty – ensuring everyone in the room gets what they deserve!

Roku boasts stellar voice commands with its remotes, making it easy to navigate content quickly. However, for more complex requests such as those made through Google or Alexa speakers, responses can be long and tedious – without mention of the time that passes before Roku properly performs them.

For visitors at your home? Don’t worry! There’s a Guest Mode account you can use temporarily. And if late-night TV binging is necessary, but others are trying to sleep nearby? Plug in headphones into the remote and listen while Roku blissfully displays its wallpaper until manually turned off. If cost savings is important too, consider purchasing The Stick Plus edition; same interface minus Ethernet ports, USBs & company, so you don’t have to sacrifice features for budget reasons!

Remote

Although the Roku remote has been considered superior to Apple TV for a long time, that comparison is now obsolete. When it released its 2021 4K model, Apple introduced an immensely upgraded version of its beloved device. It comes with improved usability and exceptional features like iPhone-as-remote options making text entry much smoother as well as lock screen playback controls.

Additionally, accessibility settings allow users to switch off touchpad input so only directional buttons are displayed – allowing fast forward or rewind in 10-second increments!

The Roku remote takes the pain out of streaming, designed with large and colored buttons that are super easy to navigate. With preset buttons tailored to your favorite channels – like Hulu, Netflix or ESPN – this remote sets itself apart from other models. And no need to worry if you lost it under the couch; just grab your phone and use the app as a replacement!

Conclusion

Although the Roku Ultra offers a great remote experience, Apple TV is ultimately the best choice when it comes to streaming media. Its sleek interface and support for both HDR formats make watching movies or shows an enjoyable journey of convenience and clarity! And with its advanced voice controls, you can easily tailor your viewing according to your desires in no time at all.