Apple TV vs. Roku: Which Should You Get?
More people watch their favorite series and movies via streaming. In response, you might have gone with the flow and checked out the latest devices for the service.
Two devices dominate the mainstream choices: Apple TV vs. Roku. You would probably pick one of them, so you should know which is the best.
This article will start by listing the specifications of the Apple TV and the Roku. Afterward, we will discuss differences in several factors, such as available content and connectivity.
Apple TV specs
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- Operating system: tvOS 2.0.0
- Price: $99
- Entertainment channels: 25+
- Resolution: 1080p HD
- Weight: 9.6 ounces or 0.6 pounds
- Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.5 x 1.0 inches
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI
- Mirroring: Yes, via AirPlay
- Smartphone control app: Yes, via iOS and watchOS device
- Game apps: App Store or AirPlay
- HDMI-capable TV required
Roku specs
Photo Credits: www.roku.com
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- Operating system: iOS, Android
- Price: $99
- Entertainment channels: 750+
- Resolution: 1080p HD
- Weight: 5 ounces or 0.31 pounds
- Dimensions: 3.9 x 3.9 x 0.9 inches
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, HDMI, USB disc, Micro SD slot
- Mirroring: Yes, via third-party apps
- Smartphone control app: Yes, via iOS and Android
- Game apps via third-party apps
- All devices can run on any TV except the Roku 3.
Online Content
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Online content is the first thing you should consider when picking between Apple TV and Roku. After all, it is the main purpose of these online streaming apps.
Let us begin with the Apple TV. At the time of writing, it only has around 30 channels. Yet, most well-known streaming services, such as HBO Go, YouTube, and Netflix, work on it.
On the other hand, Roku boasts over 1,700 apps and channels. As a result, it dwarfs Apple TV’s lineup and the majority of premium cable TV packages. It also features numerous streaming services like YouTube, Amazon Instant Video, Netflix, and M-Go.
However, Toku does not show content from iTunes. Apple fans may prefer the fruit-branded device. If you are not interested in iTunes, Roku is the clear winner in Apple TV vs. Roku.
Local content
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The Apple TV’s initial design facilitates playing local iTunes content. Moreover, it allows users to mirror content via AirPlay. Mirroring involves showing content from one device to another in real time.
For example, you could play the Spotify playlist from your iPhone to Apple TV. On the other hand, you will need more effort to play local content on Roku.
Nevertheless, you can play media on USB drives and Micro SD cards. Your experience in mirroring local content may vary.
Connectivity
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The Apple TV links to your television via HDMI cable. Also, it has an optical audio output port and an ethernet port. The latter lets you connect to a router.
The device also interacts with gadgets via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Meanwhile, the other side of Apple TV vs. Roku also offers the same Wi-Fi features.
It sets itself apart with its additional Micro SD and USB slots. Unfortunately, Roku does not have an optical audio output and Bluetooth connectivity.
Integration
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The Apple TV is the best option if you love the Apple ecosystem. It integrates with its devices seamlessly, and it lets you access its content without interacting with them.
You could open your iCloud account from the Apple TV. Then, you could use cloud storage to access files from your other Apple devices.
Meanwhile, Roku does not limit itself to a proprietary lineup of gadgets. You could play media from almost any device and app but expect more time and effort to make it work.
Gaming
Photo Credit: www.roku.com
The Roku wins against the Apple TV when it comes to video games. The latter cannot play games from any Apple device on TV via AirPlay.
Meanwhile, Roku offers gaming apps like poker and Angry Birds. Even better, the Roku 3 has a motion-sensitive controller that improves the gaming experience.
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The Roku can link to Netflix, which also offers games. Consequently, you could play Netflix Games on your Roku. Note that you may have to follow more steps to do it.
Conclusion
The Roku is the clear winner when comparing it to the Apple TV. It does not limit itself to the Apple ecosystem, enabling access to more services.
Meanwhile, you may prefer the other side of Apple TV vs Roku if you are an Apple fan. It will help you have more uses for your new iPhone 14 and Apple Watch Ultra.
Which one is your winner? Note that later updates could improve the features mentioned in this article. Follow Inquirer Tech for the latest news and updates.
